I joined the Search Engine Marketing Association of Charlotte (SEMCLT) in 2009 because I believe search engine optimization (SEO) is among the most important marketing communications functions for businesses today. Think about it … when you want an answer to a question or ideas to solve a problem, where do you turn? You probably ask a friend or the Internet. With the way search engines work these days, that’s the same thing! And it’s among the most effective ways for new customers to find your business.

Even though I’m not a programmer or code monkey or a Google Analytics expert, I’ve learned the right questions to ask those people. And I have a firmer grasp on how search affects my organization’s communications plans. At SEMCLT meetings I almost always end up sitting beside a business owner or communications colleague seeking the same knowledge to help his or her organization thrive.

Coming up in October, the same people who created SEMCLT are presenting Search Exchange, a three-day intensive conference focusing the whys and hows of paid search advertising, social media marketing and search engine optimization. Friends of the chamber (all you fine folk reading this) can get $300 off a three-day conference pass using CLTCHBR at checkout.

Watch the video to hear from Keith Schilling of SEMCLT on what to expect at the conference. I hope to see you there!