Search engine marketing, or SEM, is a form of Internet marketing that seeks to promote websites by increasing their visibility in search engine result pages (SERPs). According to the Search Engine Marketing Professional Organization, SEM methods include: search engine optimization (or SEO), paid placement, contextual advertising, and paid inclusion.

There are many advantages to using Internet marketing and search engine marketing (SEM) strategies to advertise your business. According to a 2008 iProspect research study, 39% of search engine users believe that the companies appearing in top search results for their field are also the leaders in that field.

Local search marketing is another advantage. Local search marketing occurs when a business submits business details to a database of local business listings to reach users who use specialized Internet search engines. Local search marketing allows businesses to effectively target local customers.

One of search engine marketing's biggest advantages is the ability to cost-effectively advertise round-the-clock, 24-7. Search engine marketing is a low cost advertising strategy, which is easily tracked. It is the backbone of any company's Internet marketing strategy, especially in a competitive marketplace.

Source: Examiner.com