So what is emarketing and how does it differ from internet marketing that we see and hear so much of in today’s online society.

Emarketing encompasses much more than just internet marketing and more than just website promotion, although it does include both of those. So while internet marketing will tend to include Search Engine Optimisation (SEO), Search Advertising (or Pay Per Click), Link Development, Banner advertising etc., emarketing takes the reach a step further. Emarketing extends to cover all methods of communicating with your customers electronically, not just through the internet but also through email marketing, business blogging, mobile messaging, podcasting and the like.

Emarketing has so far managed to stay clear of some of the negative press that Internet Marketing has become associated with due to the alleged mal practice particularly in SEO where companies have spent thousands with no visible improvements to their Search Engine rankings. The term internet marketing has also been taken over to some extent by the sellers of infoproducts with their “special never to be repeated offers” - something akin to the photocopier or door to door salesmen.

As for website promotion, well that is only part of the goal at the end of the day. A company’s website is at the core of all emarketing activity and provides a focal point for it and the sales opportunities that it must provide. However, this neglects the fact that these elements in themselves can work strongly in branding an organisation and its activities, can strengthen customer and business relationships as well as develop trust which influences far more than simply the desire to visit a company website.

Emarketing is certainly a powerful business builder, particularly integrated emarketing which links with offline marketing efforts. However, it goes much further than that and offers the marketers of today opportunities to take the process several steps further as well.