If you've ever Googled your business and wondered why you're not showing up, you’re not alone. One of the most common questions small business owners ask is: “How do I get to the top of Google?”
The answer usually involves two main strategies: SEO and digital ads (like Google Ads). Both can get your business in front of customers—but they work very differently. Here’s what you need to know about each, and how they can work together to bring in more leads, calls, and customers.
SEO stands for Search Engine Optimization. It’s all about improving your website so that it shows up organically (for free) in search engine results when someone searches for terms related to your business.
Think of SEO like laying the foundation of a house. It’s solid, long-lasting, and designed to attract visitors over time. With SEO, you’re earning your spot in search results through high-quality content, good website structure, and relevance to what users are searching for.
Optimizing the text on your site to match what people are searching for
Making sure your site loads fast and works on mobile devices
Adding keywords to titles, headings, and images
Getting listed on Google Maps and in directories
Creating content like blogs that answer common customer questions
Long-term traffic
Builds trust and authority
Cost-effective over time
Takes time to see results
Needs regular updates and content
Results depend on competition and search trends
Google Ads (sometimes called PPC or pay-per-click ads) are the paid listings that show up at the top or bottom of Google’s search results. You choose keywords you want your ad to appear for, set a budget, and only pay when someone clicks on your ad.
Think of Google Ads like turning on a faucet. You can start seeing results almost instantly, but you have to keep paying to keep the traffic flowing.
Search ads (text ads at the top of search results)
Display ads (image-based ads across websites)
Local services ads (for service-based businesses)
Retargeting ads (ads that follow past visitors around the web)
Fast results
Targeted to specific keywords, locations, and audiences
Easy to track ROI
Costs money every time someone clicks
Requires strategy to avoid wasted spend
Stops working when you stop paying
If you're just launching your business or website, Google Ads can help get your name out there quickly. Meanwhile, investing in SEO ensures that you're building a strong online presence for the long haul. Think of Google Ads as the rocket booster and SEO as the steady engine that keeps your business growing. Together, they give you the best of both worlds.
At Matchstick Studio and Modular Orange, we specialize in building beautiful, high-performance websites and helping small businesses grow online. Whether you’re starting fresh or want to boost your existing presence, we can help you create a plan that fits your goals and budget. Just get in touch with us!