{"id":13973,"date":"2025-09-18T14:45:22","date_gmt":"2025-09-18T14:45:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/09\/18\/seo-and-ppc-8-smart-ways-to-align-for-maximum-roi-in-2025\/"},"modified":"2025-09-18T14:45:22","modified_gmt":"2025-09-18T14:45:22","slug":"seo-and-ppc-8-smart-ways-to-align-for-maximum-roi-in-2025","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/09\/18\/seo-and-ppc-8-smart-ways-to-align-for-maximum-roi-in-2025\/","title":{"rendered":"SEO and PPC: 8 Smart Ways to Align for Maximum ROI in 2025"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Your SEO and PPC teams probably don\u2019t share data. That\u2019s problematic.<\/p>\n<p>Organic traffic is slipping. CPCs are climbing.<\/p>\n<p>And conversions aren\u2019t keeping pace.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s not just the LLMs \u2014 the SERP itself has changed. In 2025, every query is a blended battlefield of ads, <a href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/ai-overviews\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">AI overviews<\/a>, videos, shopping units, map packs, and organic links.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Google SERP \u2013 How to build a website\" alt=\"Google SERP \u2013 How to build a website\" data-aspect-ratio=\"2.64\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/google-serp-how-to-build-a-website.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Yet, most teams operate with SEO and PPC in silos.<\/p>\n<p>That doesn\u2019t work anymore.<\/p>\n<p>Because to users, there\u2019s no \u201corganic vs. paid search.\u201d They just click what\u2019s useful. And \u201cuseful\u201d now shows up in more places than ever.<\/p>\n<p>If you don\u2019t align your channels, you end up with duplication, cannibalization, and wasted spend.<\/p>\n<p>This guide will show you eight ways to bring SEO and PPC together \u2014 from sharing keyword data to sharpening targeting. So you can cut costs, capture more clicks, and drive higher ROI.<\/p>\n<p>Let\u2019s start with an often-overlooked but powerful way to combine your PPC and SEO efforts: spotting intent mismatches.<\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_81 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/09\/18\/seo-and-ppc-8-smart-ways-to-align-for-maximum-roi-in-2025\/#1_Analyze_the_SERP_to_Fix_Poor_PPC_Ad_Performance\" >1. Analyze the SERP to Fix Poor PPC Ad Performance<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/09\/18\/seo-and-ppc-8-smart-ways-to-align-for-maximum-roi-in-2025\/#2_Stop_Wasting_PPC_Budget_on_Customer_Support_Terms\" >2. Stop Wasting PPC Budget on Customer Support Terms<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/09\/18\/seo-and-ppc-8-smart-ways-to-align-for-maximum-roi-in-2025\/#3_Use_Keyword_Clusters_to_Create_More_Focused_PPC_Landing_Pages\" >3. Use Keyword Clusters to Create More Focused PPC Landing Pages<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/09\/18\/seo-and-ppc-8-smart-ways-to-align-for-maximum-roi-in-2025\/#4_Unify_PPC_and_SEO_Data_to_Decide_When_to_Bid_on_Your_Brand\" >4. Unify PPC and SEO Data to Decide When to Bid on Your Brand<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/09\/18\/seo-and-ppc-8-smart-ways-to-align-for-maximum-roi-in-2025\/#5_Prioritize_High-ROI_SEO_Keywords_by_Analyzing_PPC_Data\" >5. Prioritize High-ROI SEO Keywords by Analyzing PPC Data<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/09\/18\/seo-and-ppc-8-smart-ways-to-align-for-maximum-roi-in-2025\/#6_Turn_PAA_Questions_Into_High-Converting_Landing_Page_FAQs\" >6. Turn PAA Questions Into High-Converting Landing Page FAQs<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/09\/18\/seo-and-ppc-8-smart-ways-to-align-for-maximum-roi-in-2025\/#7_Sharpen_Your_Targeting_and_Creative_with_Cross-Channel_Insights\" >7. Sharpen Your Targeting and Creative with Cross-Channel Insights<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/09\/18\/seo-and-ppc-8-smart-ways-to-align-for-maximum-roi-in-2025\/#8_Use_PPC_Insights_to_Spot_SEO_Wins\" >8. Use PPC Insights to Spot SEO Wins<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/09\/18\/seo-and-ppc-8-smart-ways-to-align-for-maximum-roi-in-2025\/#How_to_Get_Your_Team_Aligned_on_SEO_and_PPC\" >How to Get Your Team Aligned on SEO and PPC<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2025\/09\/18\/seo-and-ppc-8-smart-ways-to-align-for-maximum-roi-in-2025\/#Boost_Your_ROI_with_a_Shared_SEO_and_PPC_Strategy\" >Boost Your ROI with a Shared SEO and PPC Strategy<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Analyze_the_SERP_to_Fix_Poor_PPC_Ad_Performance\"><\/span>1. Analyze the SERP to Fix Poor PPC Ad Performance<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>When your PPC ads fail to convert, the problem might not be your targeting or creative \u2014 it could be that you\u2019re bidding on the wrong <a title=\"Search Intent and SEO: How to Optimize for User Goals\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/search-intent\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">intent<\/a> entirely.<\/p>\n<p>If the SERP is dominated by videos, tutorials, or how to guides, it signals that users are still researching \u2014 not necessarily ready to buy your product.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Google SERP \u2013 Handstand pushups\" alt=\"Google SERP \u2013 Handstand pushups\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.2328571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/google-serp-handstand-pushups.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Without analyzing the SERP, you risk wasting ad spend on queries that will never convert.<\/p>\n<p>Let\u2019s use Squarespace as an example.<\/p>\n<p>If they\u2019re bidding on \u201c<a title=\"SEO Friendly Web Design\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/seo-friendly-design\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">website design<\/a>\u201d and conversions are weak, a quick SERP check would explain it:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Google SERP \u2013 Website design businesses\" alt=\"Google SERP \u2013 Website design businesses\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.72\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/google-serp-website-design-businesses.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Google surfaces a local pack of agencies for this term, which signals service-seeking intent \u2014 not DIY website builders.<\/p>\n<p>Knowing that, they could cut the term and redirect spend to higher-intent queries.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Stop_Wasting_PPC_Budget_on_Customer_Support_Terms\"><\/span>2. Stop Wasting PPC Budget on Customer Support Terms<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>One of the most common (and costly) PPC mistakes is bidding on customer support queries.<\/p>\n<p>Searches like \u201c[YourProduct] login problems\u201d or \u201c[YourProduct] forum\u201d signal that someone is already a customer trying to troubleshoot \u2014 <strong>not<\/strong> a prospect considering a free trial or demo.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Google SERP \u2013 Squarespace login problems\" alt=\"Google SERP \u2013 Squarespace login problems\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.0028571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/google-serp-squarespace-login-problems.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Yet, many companies spend thousands every month sending these clicks to sales pages that rarely convert.<\/p>\n<p>For example, if Squarespace analyzed their rankings for a term like \u201cSquarespace login,\u201d they\u2019d see they already rank #1.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Google SERP \u2013 Squarespace login\" alt=\"Google SERP \u2013 Squarespace login\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.93428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/google-serp-squarespace-login.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>And those visitors almost never convert for one vital reason \u2014 they\u2019re already customers.<\/p>\n<p>Luckily, there\u2019s an easy fix: Squarespace can exclude this and other support terms from its PPC campaigns.<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s how to do this for your own ad campaigns:<\/p>\n<p>Start by finding support-related queries for your brand using a <a title=\"Free Keyword Research Tool by Backlinko\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/tools\/keyword\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">keyword research tool<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>We\u2019ll be using Semrush\u2019s <a title=\"Free Keyword Tool: Find Keywords &amp; Suggestions Instantly\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/analytics\/keywordmagic\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Keyword Magic Tool<\/a> for this step.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-note.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Note:<\/strong> A free Semrush account gives you 10 searches in this tool per day. Or you can use this link to access a <a title=\"Backlinko &amp; Semrush: 14-day PRO Trial\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/lp\/backlinko-offer\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">14-day trial on a Semrush Pro subscription<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-note.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Enter your <strong>brand\u2019s name<\/strong> in the top search bar and your <strong>brand\u2019s URL<\/strong> in the purple search bar to personalize the data to your domain.<\/p>\n<p>Click \u201c<strong>Search<\/strong>.\u201d<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Keyword Magic Tool \u2013 Squarespace \u2013 Search\" alt=\"Keyword Magic Tool \u2013 Squarespace \u2013 Search\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.62\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/keyword-magic-tool-squarespace-search.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Manually scan the list (or use the \u201c<strong>Include keywords<\/strong>\u201d filter) to find support-related terms like \u201clogin,\u201d \u201cpricing,\u201d \u201cfree trial,\u201d \u201ctemplates,\u201d \u201csupport,\u201d and \u201cforum.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Then, view the number highlighted in blue to the right of each term \u2014 that\u2019s your current ranking.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Keyword Magic Tool \u2013 Squarespace \u2013 Keywords\" alt=\"Keyword Magic Tool \u2013 Squarespace \u2013 Keywords\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.97285714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/keyword-magic-tool-squarespace-keywords.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Already ranking #1\u20133 for your most commonly searched support terms?<\/p>\n<p>Organic SEO is doing its job, which means you can remove these terms from your PPC campaigns.<\/p>\n<p>Export them into a CSV or Google Sheet to create a <a title=\"Negative Keywords: What They Are &amp; How to Use Them\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/blog\/negative-keywords\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">negative keyword list<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Now, you\u2019ll have the confidence (and the data) to cut PPC spend knowing SEO fully covers these searches.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Further reading:<\/strong> Want to know what companies are spending on PPC in 2025? Check out our curated list of <a title=\"24 Up-To-Date PPC Statistics to Know\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/ppc-statistics\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">PPC statistics<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Use_Keyword_Clusters_to_Create_More_Focused_PPC_Landing_Pages\"><\/span>3. Use Keyword Clusters to Create More Focused PPC Landing Pages<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>When dozens of different queries with slightly different intents funnel into a single PPC landing page, relevance drops.<\/p>\n<p>Why does this matter?<\/p>\n<p>Because landing page relevance <a title=\"About Quality Score for Search campaigns - Google Ads Help\" href=\"https:\/\/support.google.com\/google-ads\/answer\/6167118?\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">improves your Quality Score<\/a>, which can <a title=\"Cost Per Click (CPC): Learn What Cost Per Click Means for PPC\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wordstream.com\/cost-per-click\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">cut CPC by 16% to 50%<\/a>.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"SEO &amp; PPC\" alt=\"SEO &amp; PPC\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.53142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/seo-and-ppc.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>In other words, the closer the page matches what a searcher actually wants, the less you pay for each click.<\/p>\n<p>Conducting keyword research can help you understand where you need a separate landing page. To start, use a keyword research tool to group organic keywords into clusters.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Keyword Strategy Builder \u2013 Search \u2013 Topical Overview\" alt=\"Keyword Strategy Builder \u2013 Search \u2013 Topical Overview\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.6\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/08\/keyword-strategy-builder-topical-overview.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Then, map each <a title=\"Topic Clusters 101: How to Level Up Your SEO (with Examples)\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/topic-clusters\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">keyword cluster<\/a> to a dedicated PPC landing page.<\/p>\n<p>This way, your ads always point to content that matches the searcher\u2019s intent, while your Quality Score (and budget efficiency) benefits from the added relevance.<\/p>\n<p>Squarespace is a good example of this.<\/p>\n<p>Instead of sending every \u201cwebsite builder\u201d query to one broad page, they build dedicated landing pages around different intents.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Squarespace \u2013 Create a portfolio website\" alt=\"Squarespace \u2013 Create a portfolio website\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.53571428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/squarespace-create-a-portfolio-website.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>For example, a search for \u201cportfolio website\u201d leads to a page showcasing portfolio-specific templates, not a generic product overview.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Further reading:<\/strong> <a title=\"Keyword Mapping: A Step-by-Step Guide to Better SEO\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/keyword-mapping\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Keyword Mapping: A Step-by-Step Guide to Better SEO<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Unify_PPC_and_SEO_Data_to_Decide_When_to_Bid_on_Your_Brand\"><\/span>4. Unify PPC and SEO Data to Decide When to Bid on Your Brand<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Brand bidding is one of the biggest friction points between SEO and PPC teams.<\/p>\n<p>The debate isn\u2019t whether to bid on your brand \u2014 it\u2019s when. Without unified data, teams make this decision based on assumptions rather than evidence.<\/p>\n<p>The truth is somewhere in the middle \u2014 and the right decision depends on context.<\/p>\n<p>So, instead of separating PPC advertising and SEO data, combine them to make a more informed decision.<\/p>\n<p>Start by checking whether competitors are bidding on your brand with a manual search for your branded keywords.<\/p>\n<p>For instance, a search for \u201cSquarespace website builder\u201d shows that Wix is also bidding on the term.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Google SERP \u2013 Squarespace Website Builder (sponsored)\" alt=\"Google SERP \u2013 Squarespace Website Builder (sponsored)\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.3928571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/google-serp-square-website-builder.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Want to automate this process?<\/p>\n<p>Use a tool like Semrush\u2019s <a title=\"Keyword Gap: Find New Ideas From Competitor Keywords\" href=\"http:\/\/semrush.com\/analytics\/keywordgap\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Keyword Gap<\/a> that lets you assess your site and your competitors\u2019 sites for the top shared keywords (paid and organic) they use.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Keyword Gap \u2013 Wix &amp; Squarespace\" alt=\"Keyword Gap \u2013 Wix &amp; Squarespace\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.93857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/keyword-gap-wix-and-squarespace.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>If you see your competitors bidding on your branded keywords, it makes sense to run ads to defend those clicks.<\/p>\n<p>But if your competitors aren\u2019t bidding, it\u2019s time to check your organic coverage.<\/p>\n<p>Do you already own most of page one organically for your branded terms?<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Google SERP \u2013 Squarespace-website-builder (organic)\" alt=\"Google SERP \u2013 Squarespace-website-builder (organic)\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.81\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/google-serp-squarespace-website-builder.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>If the answer is no, ads help fill the gaps.<\/p>\n<p>If yes, you can safely test pausing.<\/p>\n<p>Turn off your ads for branded keywords and see what happens.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Pro tip:<\/strong> If cutting ads also cuts traffic by [40%, they\u2019re adding value. If drops hit 80%+, you\u2019re just paying for what you\u2019d get anyway.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Finally, consider the messaging value of your ads.<\/p>\n<p>Even if you\u2019re getting organic coverage, brand ads give you space to promote new features, discounts, or free trials.<\/p>\n<p>So it might still be worth paying for them.<\/p>\n<p>For example, Squarespace uses its paid ads on the term \u201cSquarespace website builder\u201d to promote its new AI website builder tools.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Google SERP \u2013 Squarespace Website Builder \u2013 AI Website Builder\" alt=\"Google SERP \u2013 Squarespace Website Builder \u2013 AI Website Builder\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.80428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/google-serp-squarespace-website-builder-ai-website-builder.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Prioritize_High-ROI_SEO_Keywords_by_Analyzing_PPC_Data\"><\/span>5. Prioritize High-ROI SEO Keywords by Analyzing PPC Data<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>A common SEO challenge is figuring out which keywords actually matter.<\/p>\n<p>Ranking for broad terms might bring traffic, but not necessarily signups or revenue.<\/p>\n<p>Without conversion data, it\u2019s hard to know where to focus.<\/p>\n<p>This is where PPC comes in. Paid campaigns don\u2019t just generate leads \u2014 they generate fast, reliable data.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Google Ads \u2013 Case study\" alt=\"Google Ads \u2013 Case study\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.71285714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/03\/google-ads-case-study.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>You can see which headlines win clicks, which keywords drive conversions, and what each click is worth.<\/p>\n<p>Take the phrase \u201cwebsite platform for small businesses.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>If PPC data shows it converts four times better than the broader \u201cwebsite platform,\u201d that\u2019s the angle worth prioritizing in your SEO titles, <a title=\"H1 Tags: What Are They, Best Practices, and Examples\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/h1-tag\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">H1s<\/a>, and <a title=\"Content Marketing Strategy: 10 Steps to Build a Results-Driven Plan\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/content-marketing-strategy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">content strategy<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>PPC metrics can even help you prove the business value of SEO \u2014 something every stakeholder loves.<\/p>\n<p>Once you know a keyword\u2019s conversion rate and customer value from paid campaigns, you can model the value of ranking for it:<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/03\/icon-remember-v2.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>SEO ROI = (Organic clicks gained \u00d7 PPC conversion rate \u00d7 Customer value) \u2212 SEO cost<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/03\/icon-remember-v2.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Say a <a title=\"How to Find Keyword Cost and Optimize Your PPC Campaigns\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/ppc-keyword-cost\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">keyword costs<\/a> $30K\/month in ads, but ranking organically would capture roughly a third of that traffic.<\/p>\n<p>That\u2019s about $9K in \u201cfree\u201d conversions every single month.<\/p>\n<p>That\u2019s the kind of math that gets buy-in from leadership.<\/p>\n<p>You can use this same logic to estimate the value of refreshing existing content. Sometimes a simple update is worth tens of thousands in equivalent ad spend.<\/p>\n<p>The takeaway?<\/p>\n<p>PPC data gives you the proof points and the playbook to double down on the SEO opportunities that will actually pay off.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Further reading:<\/strong> <a title=\"How to Advertise Your Business with a $500 Budget\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/how-to-advertise-your-business\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">How to Advertise Your Business with a $500 Budget<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_Turn_PAA_Questions_Into_High-Converting_Landing_Page_FAQs\"><\/span>6. Turn PAA Questions Into High-Converting Landing Page FAQs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>PPC landing pages underperform if they don\u2019t answer your audience\u2019s questions.<\/p>\n<p>Say you\u2019re running an ad for \u201cwebsite design,\u201d but you\u2019re sending people to a generic product page.<\/p>\n<p>You\u2019re missing what they actually want \u2014 answers to queries like \u201cHow can I design my own website?\u201d<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"People also ask \u2013 Website design\" alt=\"People also ask \u2013 Website design\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.44428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/people-also-ask-website-design.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>The good news? Your SEO team already has the answers.<\/p>\n<p>Google\u2019s People Also Ask (PAA) is essentially a ready-made FAQ list you can use to boost conversions on your PPC <a title=\"Landing Page Guide: Create Pages That Convert Super Well\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/landing-page-guide\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">landing pages<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>To apply this, run a Google search for your target keyword, scan the PAA questions, and pick the ones most relevant to your product.<\/p>\n<p>Or use a PAA aggregator like <a title=\"AlsoAsked\" href=\"https:\/\/alsoasked.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">AlsoAsked<\/a>.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"AlsoAsked \u2013 Homepage\" alt=\"AlsoAsked \u2013 Homepage\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.60285714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/alsoasked-homepage.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Then, add concise FAQ sections directly addressing those questions on your landing pages.<\/p>\n<p>Like Squarespace does here:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Squarespace \u2013 How to design a website\" alt=\"Squarespace \u2013 How to design a website\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.62142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/squarespace-how-to-design-a-website.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Use the same phrasing as the query where possible. And for cost-related questions, include transparent pricing.<\/p>\n<p>If PAA hints at confusion between competitors (e.g., \u201cproject management versus task management\u201d), add a comparison chart.<\/p>\n<p>But don\u2019t stop at answering.<\/p>\n<p>Finish each FAQ with a call to action like \u201cCompare plans\u201d or \u201cStart free trial\u201d so every answer nudges the visitor toward conversion.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Squarespace \u2013 Start your free website trial today\" alt=\"Squarespace \u2013 Start your free website trial today\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.53571428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/squarespace-start-your-free-website-trial-today.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_Sharpen_Your_Targeting_and_Creative_with_Cross-Channel_Insights\"><\/span>7. Sharpen Your Targeting and Creative with Cross-Channel Insights<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>PPC and SEO see searchers from different angles, and combining these insights makes both channels stronger.<\/p>\n<p>For instance, PPC campaigns capture signals you won\u2019t get from SEO alone.<\/p>\n<p>This includes detailed geo and device performance, auction insights, and even what competitors are promising in their ads.<\/p>\n<p>Feeding that data back to SEO gives you sharper targeting and more relevant content.<\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, SEO\u2019s read of the SERPs tells PPC teams which formats, keywords, and messages resonate.<\/p>\n<p>Start with audience insights.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Semrush \u2013 Audience Insights \u2013 Age &amp; Sex\" alt=\"Semrush \u2013 Audience Insights \u2013 Age &amp; Sex\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.37\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/semrush-audience-insights-age-sex.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>PPC demographic data can show how the same keyword lands differently with different groups.<\/p>\n<p>An \u201centerprise website builder\u201d query might skew older, while \u201cstartup website\u201d attracts younger searchers.<\/p>\n<p>With that knowledge, you can tailor your content to each segment.<\/p>\n<p>Plus, PPC geo reports often show which cities or regions deliver stronger conversion rates.<\/p>\n<p>Double down on those markets with <a title=\"Local SEO: The Definitive Guide (+ Free Toolkit)\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/local-seo-guide\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">local SEO<\/a> landing pages and Google Business Profiles instead of spreading resources evenly.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Google SERP \u2013 Massamn curry near me\" alt=\"Google SERP \u2013 Massamn curry near me\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.1257142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/02\/google-serp-massamn-curry-near-me.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Then, look at conversion timelines.<\/p>\n<p>PPC usually converts faster, so landing pages should focus on immediate offers like free trials or demos.<\/p>\n<p><a title=\"How to Create an Effective SEO Strategy\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/seo-strategy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SEO content<\/a>, on the other hand, is better for longer nurturing cycles, using tutorials, comparisons, and testimonials to build trust over time.<\/p>\n<p>PPC impression data can even act as an early warning system for shifting demand. Think \u201ctax planning\u201d in November versus \u201ctax software\u201d in January.<\/p>\n<p>By spotting seasonal spikes before rankings catch up, you can publish content early and retarget those visitors later when demand peaks.\u200b\u200b<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Semrush \u2013 Paid Search Trends\" alt=\"Semrush \u2013 Paid Search Trends\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.52142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/semrush-paid-search-trends.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Finally, use SEO as a proactive defense against competitive ad bids.<\/p>\n<p>If rivals target your brand with ads, you can create comparison pages to address those claims directly in organic search.<\/p>\n<p>That way, competitor ad spend doesn\u2019t define your positioning.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Sponsored \u2013 Framer\" alt=\"Sponsored \u2013 Framer\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.84142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/sponsored-framer.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_Use_PPC_Insights_to_Spot_SEO_Wins\"><\/span>8. Use PPC Insights to Spot SEO Wins<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>PPC is real-time. SEO is a long game. Put them together and you\u2019ve got an early-warning and opportunity-detection system.<\/p>\n<p>Start with Quality Scores.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Quality Score\" alt=\"Quality Score\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.47857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/quality-score.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>They\u2019re more than an ad metric \u2014 they\u2019re a diagnostic tool for SEO.<\/p>\n<p>For instance, if your scores are tanking on mobile traffic, that usually means your site is slow or the user experience is clunky.<\/p>\n<p>That\u2019s not just costing you more per click.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s also holding back your organic rankings, since Google bakes page speed and Core Web Vitals into its algorithm.<\/p>\n<p>Fix the problem once \u2014 faster load times, cleaner UX \u2014 and you\u2019ll see the lift across both paid and organic.<\/p>\n<p>Then, there are negative keywords.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Negative Keyword \u2013 Free\" alt=\"Negative Keyword \u2013 Free\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.67571428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/negative-keyword-free.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>In PPC, you might block terms that aren\u2019t relevant to your products to protect your budget.<\/p>\n<p>But those searches don\u2019t disappear just because you turned them off in ads. They still represent demand.<\/p>\n<p>Instead of ignoring it, capture it with SEO. Create tutorials, \u201chow-to\u201d content, or resource hubs around those queries.<\/p>\n<p>You\u2019ll pull in a wider audience for free.<\/p>\n<p>And, since you know these visitors aren\u2019t ready to buy yet, you can retarget them later with PPC when they are.<\/p>\n<p>Finally, watch your <a title=\"Free Keyword Rank Checker Monitor Google Rankings\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/tools\/rank-checker\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">keyword position tracker<\/a> like a hawk after every Google update.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Position Tracking \u2013 Backlinko \u2013 Share of Voice\" alt=\"Position Tracking \u2013 Backlinko \u2013 Share of Voice\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.75571428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/06\/position-tracking-backlinko-share-of-voice.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Algorithm shakeups create openings you can exploit if you move fast.<\/p>\n<p>If a competitor drops from page one, don\u2019t wait.<\/p>\n<p>Publish or refresh your content to take over those keywords. At the same time, increase your PPC bids on the same terms while auction pressure is temporarily lower.<\/p>\n<p>That one-two punch lets you capture traffic your rivals just lost before they even know what hit them.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Further reading:<\/strong> <a title=\"How to Spy on Your Competitors&#039; Ads (+ Free Spying Tool)\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/tools\/competitor-search-ads\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">How to Spy on Your Competitors\u2019 Google Ads<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Get_Your_Team_Aligned_on_SEO_and_PPC\"><\/span>How to Get Your Team Aligned on SEO and PPC<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Many stakeholders still think of SEO and PPC as competing, not complementary.<\/p>\n<p>While leadership may be nervous to try a new, silo-free approach to search engine marketing, you can convince them in a couple of ways.<\/p>\n<p>First, show them how SERPs have evolved.<\/p>\n<p><a title=\"AI Overviews: What They Are and How to Optimize for Them\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/ai-overviews\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">AI Overviews<\/a>, rich features, and rising CPCs mean the old \u201cpaid vs. organic\u201d split doesn\u2019t exist anymore.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Google SERP \u2013 How to build a small business website\" alt=\"Google SERP \u2013 How to build a small business website\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.5614285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2025\/09\/google-serp-how-to-build-a-small-business-website.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Then, use this powerful three-step storytelling framework to convince execs to act.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Step 1:<\/strong> Explain what\u2019s happening by describing the external shift. Example: \u201cAI Overviews and rising CPCs are changing how people find us in search.\u201d<\/li>\n<li><strong>Step 2:<\/strong> Show how it\u2019s impacting you by tying the shift to your company\u2019s results. Example: \u201cOur paid CPCs are up 22%, and organic traffic for branded queries is down.\u201d<\/li>\n<li><strong>Step 3:<\/strong> Highlight what you can do about it by presenting alignment as the solution. Example: \u201cBy aligning SEO and PPC, we can cut wasted spend on brand terms and reinvest in high-converting queries.\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Start small. Don\u2019t push for a full overhaul on day one.<\/p>\n<p>Instead, prove ROI by aligning on a single initiative \u2014 like deciding when to bid (or not) on branded keywords.<\/p>\n<p>Once you\u2019ve shown early results, it\u2019s easier to get everyone aligned on their responsibilities.<\/p>\n<p>Next, work with SEO and PPC teams to establish next steps for each team member to achieve closer alignment.<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s a role-based plan for what your teams should start doing now:<\/p>\n<div class=\"table-responsive\">\n<table class=\"table table-primary table-striped table-hover\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"col\">SEO\/PPC Team Role<\/th>\n<th scope=\"col\">Primary Responsibilities<\/th>\n<th scope=\"col\">Action Steps to Drive SEO + PPC Alignment<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"strong\" scope=\"row\" data-before=\"SEO\/PPC Team Role\">SEO Specialists<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Primary Responsibilities\">Mine PPC data for ROI<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Action Steps to Drive SEO + PPC Alignment\">\n<ul>\n<li>Request PPC data to see which paid keywords actually drive results<\/li>\n<li>Use that data to identify low-CPC, high-ROI terms worth pursuing in organic search<\/li>\n<li>Share blog content and resources that PPC teams can repurpose for retargeting campaigns<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"strong\" scope=\"row\" data-before=\"SEO\/PPC Team Role\">PPC Teams<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Primary Responsibilities\">Flag costs and align content<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Action Steps to Drive SEO + PPC Alignment\">\n<ul>\n<li>Flag high-CPC keywords that SEO should try to rank for long-term to reduce reliance on paid<\/li>\n<li>Align PPC landing page messaging with existing SEO pages so users get a consistent story<\/li>\n<li>Promote educational content to cold audiences instead of conversion-focused ads<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"strong\" scope=\"row\" data-before=\"SEO\/PPC Team Role\">CMOs &amp; Leaders<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Primary Responsibilities\">Measure blended performance<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Action Steps to Drive SEO + PPC Alignment\">\n<ul>\n<li>Set shared KPIs (e.g., revenue per SERP, blended CAC)<\/li>\n<li>Merge data sources so SEO and PPC teams both have access to the same performance insights<\/li>\n<li>Break down silos by running regular joint syncs between paid and organic teams<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"strong\" scope=\"row\" data-before=\"SEO\/PPC Team Role\">Agencies &amp; Consultants<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Primary Responsibilities\">Prove value with unified reporting<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Action Steps to Drive SEO + PPC Alignment\">\n<ul>\n<li>Deliver blended strategy reporting that shows paid and organic results in one view<\/li>\n<li>Use unified insights to demonstrate ROI and strengthen client retention or upsell<\/li>\n<li>Educate clients on how the SERPs are changing and how alignment helps them adapt<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Boost_Your_ROI_with_a_Shared_SEO_and_PPC_Strategy\"><\/span>Boost Your ROI with a Shared SEO and PPC Strategy<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>It doesn\u2019t make any sense not to have SEO and PPC work together.<\/p>\n<p>Keep the teams siloed, and you\u2019ll waste budget, lose traffic, and fall behind as search evolves.<\/p>\n<p>For your first move, start with a shared SERP review.<\/p>\n<p>Map where you\u2019re strong, where you overlap, and where the gaps are for the quickest path to better ROI from both channels.<\/p>\n<p>Want to dig deeper?<\/p>\n<p>Explore our guide to the <a title=\"The 7 Best PPC Tools for Your Goals, Budget, and Workflow\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/best-ppc-tools\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">best PPC tools<\/a> to uncover the advanced data and insights you need to align SEO and PPC, cut wasted spend, and boost ROI.<\/p>\n<p>The post <a href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/seo-and-ppc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SEO and PPC: 8 Smart Ways to Align for Maximum ROI in 2025<\/a> appeared first on <a href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Backlinko<\/a>.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Your SEO and PPC teams probably don\u2019t share data. That\u2019s problematic. Organic traffic is slipping. CPCs are climbing. And conversions aren\u2019t keeping pace. It\u2019s not just the LLMs \u2014 the SERP itself has changed. In 2025, every query is a blended battlefield of ads, AI overviews, videos, shopping units, map packs, and organic links. Yet, most teams operate with SEO and PPC in silos. That doesn\u2019t work anymore. Because to users, there\u2019s no \u201corganic vs. paid search.\u201d They just click what\u2019s useful. And \u201cuseful\u201d now shows [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":13974,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"h5ap_radio_sources":[],"cybocfi_hide_featured_image":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[8],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-13973","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-backlinko"],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/google-serp-how-to-build-a-website-zl1UsI-600x400.png","featured_image_src_square":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/google-serp-how-to-build-a-website-zl1UsI-600x600.png","author_info":{"display_name":false,"author_link":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/author\/craig\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13973","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=13973"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13973\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/13974"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=13973"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=13973"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=13973"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}