The difference between SEM and SEO specialists?

by pewpin
6 replies
  • SEO
  • |
I was looking through craigslist for SEO specialist postings, to see every skill set I want to be perfect in for when I graduate. Job postings usually include the skills you need to be able to perform, I find it very useful to read them. I came across this page for anthro, based not too far from where my old sales job was located.

First thing I notice is that SEM/PR specialist is what is listed, not just SEM specialist. Now, that in mind - are the skills and requirements for that job as listed there a combination of both what SEM and PR specialists do, or is an SEM specialist basically the same as a PR specialist?

Also, I'm wondering what the difference between SEM and SEO are. To me, I always lopped them in the same category.

Of course I'm in no way affiliated with Anthro blah blah blah.

oh, turns out I can't post links due to stupid forum rules. well, I'll just copy and paste a couple things from the site.



from the SEM/PR section:

We need a Search Engine Marketing/Public Relations Specialist to join our team. The SEM/PR Specialist must be someone who is focused on both long and short-term goals. Their writing skills must be exemplary as they will be responsible for creating optimized and social media copy. Previous experience developing an SEM strategy is a must. The candidate should be comfortable working on a "submit for approval" basis within a team environment.
If you can think outside the box, create and implement innovative SEM and social media campaigns then you may be the person we need!
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
  • Develop a comprehensive SEM strategy that builds Anthro's online presence using blogs and social media sites such as Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.
  • Manage relationships with a variety of media including tech, business, local, vertical and across all media types (blogs/online/print).
  • Develop short-term and long-term SEM strategy goals for B to B/B to C.
  • Identify pitch topics and editorial opportunities.
  • Coordinate and execute all social media initiatives.
  • Write copy and manage content for social media programs and promotions.
  • Create and manage the posting schedule for new media, company blog, Facebook, etc.
  • Define the editorial calendar that identifies what types of posts are required.
  • Research and communicate relevant, interesting industry information and content to the Creative and Design teams.
  • Be the eyes and ears of the company to capture, filter and analyze the online "chatter" regarding Anthro.
  • Identify and monitor relevant and influential blogs/social media platforms; and when appropriate, respond appropriately on behalf of the company.
  • Organize, analyze and summarize Web analytics in relation to SEM (you will work with SEO).
  • Design and monitor metrics to determine effectiveness of social media and marketing efforts.
  • Link Building.
  • Maintains knowledge base of new media tools, best practices and how other organizations and companies are using these communication tools.
Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in business, marketing, communications, public relations or related field.
  • Minimum 2 years hands-on SEM experience creating and implementing performance-driven campaigns.
  • Demonstrated excellent writing and editing skills; specifically writing for the web. (This includes superior understanding and application of grammar, spelling, punctuation, and syntax.)
  • Previous professional experience in digital media and online communications.
  • Demonstrated experience using web analytics tools and SEM tracking tools
  • Experience with full SEM/SMM competitive audits to target opportunities.
  • Ability to multitask in a detail and deadline-driven environment.
  • Exceptional analytical, interpersonal, verbal, presentation and organizational skills.
  • Experience working collaboratively with SEO, Designers, Developers and Creative Team Members.

from the SEO section:

We need a Search Engine Optimization Specialist to join our team. This person must be someone who is goal-oriented, organized and able to record and track changes, able to create draft proposals and communicate the ideas behind them, and comfortable working in an "approval" based system. Our SEO Specialist will be involved in a full circle of SEO deliverables including research, reporting and implementation. This individual is responsible for site optimization as well as all facets of Organic and PPC day-to-day management including keyword research and generation; ad copy-writing/testing; bid management, search budgets and forecast tracking.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
  • Full site and competitive audits to target opportunities with ongoing site analysis and reporting.
  • Ad words reporting such as keyword performance, CTR, ad quality, campaign performance and spend analysis. Must be able to analyze data, communicate "proposed next steps" to managers and execute accordingly. (Google Adwords/Bing/Yahoo)
  • Develop short-term and long-term SEO goals.
  • Knowledge of best practices, industry trends and tools. (We are not interested in black hat approaches.)
Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree - business, marketing, communications or related field preferred
  • Must have experience with Web Analytics Platforms (such as Urchin & Google Analytics)
  • Must have experience of paid and organic searches and vendors (Google, Yahoo, Bing)
  • Advanced internet research skills
  • Ability to multitask and self-motivate in a deadline driven environment
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Exceptional analytical and presentation skills
  • Attention to details important as well as organizational skills
  • Must value team collaboration and be able to work in a "submit for approval" environment


Pretty sure that doesn't break any rules, but if it does.. sheesh.
#difference #sem #seo #specialists

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