Organic vs Paid Search: Two Ways a Business Can Appear in Search
Is every result on a search page a paid advertisement? Organic listings and labelled ads are different types of search result.
1:47 · No narration: the video shows each step as text on screen, and every step is written out below, with buttons that jump the video to it.
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The six points in the video
This is a silent video. The headings, explanations and labels below reproduce the information on screen.
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Step 1: Organic listings are unpaid
Their placement is determined by search systems rather than an ad payment.
On-screen labels: Unpaid listing; Search relevance; Search systems.
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Step 2: Advertisements are paid placements
Ads can appear with a label identifying them as advertising.
On-screen labels: Advertising system; Ad placement; Visible ad label.
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Step 3: Ads do not buy organic rank
Paying for ads does not purchase a higher organic position.
On-screen labels: Separate systems; No bought organic rank; Different placements.
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Step 4: Both need a useful destination
The visitor still needs a relevant page after clicking.
On-screen labels: Relevant landing page; Clear information; Working next step.
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Step 5: Keep the reporting distinct
Use appropriate reports to understand each traffic source.
On-screen labels: Organic performance; Paid campaign results; Clear report scope.
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Step 6: Review customer outcomes
Compare useful enquiries or other defined actions with the effort involved.
On-screen labels: Relevant visitors; Useful customer actions; Ongoing review.
A practical check for your business
Keep organic search reporting separate from paid campaign results when reviewing acquisition. Compare the source, reporting setup and intended outcome before interpreting a change in traffic.
Sources and further detail
Common questions
Is every result on a search page a paid advertisement?
Organic listings and labelled ads are different types of search result. Measure each channel against the same useful customer goal.
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