What is SEO & Why Does It Matter?

Creekmore Marketing • 15 September 2026

When it comes to marketing, the first thing most people think of is ads. After all, ads are everywhere. On the radio, on TV, on the internet, in smartphone apps, on buses, and the list goes on. And while ads have their place, ads are just one piece of the digital marketing puzzle. Being found organically is just as important, if not more important in some cases. That’s where we come in with SEO. But what is SEO, and why does it matter?

SEO-focused graphic over an image of an ipad next to a notepad and pen

The Meaning of SEO

SEO, also known as Search Engine Optimization, is the process of getting traffic through “organic” sources, meaning sources you aren’t paying for. For example, say you’re looking for a new car and search “paint store near me.” The first couple of results are probably going to be ads, but after that, you’ll get to the organic results, otherwise known as those recognized by the search engine to be the best resource for the consumer.

Google prides itself on being the resource for its customers, so it only wants to promote what it views as the best and most relevant results. The websites with the highest authority and the most likely to rank will perform well, be keyword-driven, have people-first content, have a clear hierarchy and URL structure, and have consistent reviews, etc.

Why Does SEO Matter?

For business owners looking to scale, SEO is essential for putting your website in front of potential customers and showing why they should choose you over your competitors. An experienced SEO marketing agency like Creekmore keeps building your organic presence over time and differentiates you from your competitors in an often-flooded market.

What Factors Go Into SEO?

There are hundreds of factors that affect search results, including content, listing consistency, website optimization, domain authority, and, of course, AI search. If you don’t know where to start, SEO can be overwhelming, especially because rising through the ranks on Google can be a slow process. It can take up to 6 months to see some major increases, which is why it shouldn’t be the only piece of your marketing strategy.

Connect with Creekmore About SEO for Your Business

At Creekmore Marketing, we are obsessed with helping small businesses grow, and we can help you create a marketing plan that’s perfect for your goals and budget. Creekmore Marketing & Design is based in Lexington, Kentucky, and we proudly serve our neighbors across the US and Canada.

Ready to begin SEO services? Book your free consultation today!

A person typing on a keyboard with a hologram search box
by SEO & Content Team • 30 September 2026
Learn all about why you shouldn’t search for your business name on Google, and what you should do for marketing analytics instead. Contact Creekmore Marketing!
Homeowner shaking hands with a maintenance worker at the doorway
by Josh Colwell • 3 September 2026
Learn about home services marketing and how it can help you beat the local competition. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!
Creative team arranging cards for a new content marketing strategy
by Kelly Drake • 27 July 2026
Explore a practical content marketing guide for small businesses. Contact Creekmore Marketing today for a free consultation and start generating leads.