Just getting started with SEM? Or are you ready to take it to the next level?

By Mac McCarthy
Editor, Buyer's Guides

In this feature, you'll get "The Scoop" on paid keyword search and contextual advertising — the two parts of SEM — using such search engine services as Google AdWords and Yahoo! Search Marketing.

We'll also link you to lots of AllBusiness.com articles by our experts, as well as books, sites, and other resources to help you build your business on the Web.

First, if you've never done keyword buying, follow our step-by-step "Getting Started" process for getting your feet wet — yes, you can start fast and cheap, get quick feedback, and tweak as much as you like before you have to commit the big bucks.

Second, once you're ready to really take advantage of this powerful marketing mechanism for driving lots of Web business right into your lap, it's time to dive right into our "Taking the Next Steps" section.

Those little ads that appear on the Google search results page? You can buy that ad space, and it might cost you as little as a dime. Here's what's up, who's who, how it works, and why you should care. Read More »