By Mike Hastie

Starting a small business is exciting—but let’s be honest, it’s also a bit terrifying especially when it comes to marketing which brings in the debate of Google vs SEO. You’ve got a limited budget, not much time, and you want to see results yesterday. You’ve probably heard terms like Google Ads and SEO thrown around, but which one should you actually invest time and money in? Which one will work fastest, and which one is worth your money? The debate about Google Ads vs SEO is heating up. Mike Hastie from Mike Hastie Digital Media takes a look at Google Ads vs SEO.

If You Are Just Starting Out You Need Some Understanding About Google Ads vs SEO

I’ve worked with dozens of small businesses in your shoes—tight budgets, big dreams, and no room for guesswork. So let’s break it down honestly, without the fluff.

What’s the Difference?

Google Ads (a.k.a. PPC or Pay-Per-Click):
You pay Google to put your business at the top of the search results. You choose keywords, set a daily budget, and your ad shows up right away—often within hours. You only pay when someone clicks on your ad.

Organic SEO (Search Engine Optimization):
You don’t pay Google directly. Instead, you optimize your website (content, structure, keywords, backlinks, etc.) so that Google organically ranks you higher over time. Think of it like planting seeds that grow into long-term visibility. Here is some help in writing SEO driven content.

If You’re Impatient (and Let’s Be Honest, Most of Us Are)…

Go with Google Ads first.
Here’s why: when you launch a website, Google has no idea who you are. Organic SEO takes time—often months. If you’re hoping for leads next week, SEO alone won’t get you there.

With Google Ads, you can:

 

    • Be seen on Page 1 of Google within 24 hours

    • Choose exactly what searches you appear for

    • Control your spend to the cent

    • Pause or adjust campaigns anytime

It’s a controlled way to “test the waters” and get early feedback on what’s working—without waiting months for traction.

But Isn’t SEO Free?

Yes and no.

You don’t pay for clicks with SEO, but you do pay in time. Either your time (writing content, optimizing pages, learning the rules), or someone else’s (hiring a consultant or agency). SEO is a slow burn. But once it kicks in, the clicks are free, consistent, and long-lasting.

If Google Ads is renting, SEO is buying. Over time, SEO becomes the more profitable strategy. But it’s not a quick fix.

When It Comes To Google Ad vs SEO, Here’s What I Recommend (From Experience):

Start with Google Ads for fast results.
Use it to:

 

    • Test what keywords your customers are searching

    • See what headlines or services get the most clicks

    • Start getting leads or sales quickly

Then build SEO in the background.
While Google Ads brings in quick wins, slowly work on your SEO:

 

    • Create helpful content (FAQs, blogs, service pages)

    • Make sure your website is fast and mobile-friendly

    • Get listed on local directories and gather reviews

That way, in 6–12 months, you’re not just paying for traffic—you’re earning it.

Budgeting Tips for the Risk-Averse

I know what you’re thinking: “What if I waste money on Google Ads?”

Good news—you can start small. Many of my clients begin with as little as R100–R300 a day, and we pause anything that’s not working. There’s no long-term commitment. You’re in control the whole time.

Start with one or two tightly targeted campaigns. Focus on one service, one area, one goal. This keeps your costs down and results easier to measure.

Final Thoughts

If you’re launching a business with limited funds, high hopes, and low patience (hey, no shame in that), here’s the truth:

 

    • SEO keeps you seen long-term.

    • Together, they’re powerful—but start with the one that gets you moving.

Play it smart, track your results, and don’t let the fear of doing it “wrong” stop you from doing it at all. You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to start.

If you want help getting your first campaign running or figuring out where to begin with SEO, feel free to reach out. No pressure, no jargon—just real advice from someone who’s been there.

If you have any questions re the above article please contact Mike on 0844004300 or go to https://www.mikehastiemedia.com or email mike@mikehastiemedia.com.

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