Apogee Search Becomes First Google AdWords Qualified Company in the Southwest

January 10, 2007; 02:19 AM
Apogee Search revealed today, that earlier in Q3 of this year it previously met Google’s requirements to attain recognition as a Google AdWords Qualified Company, becoming the first pure-play SEM (Search Engine Marketing) agency in Texas to achieve this status, and one of only 35 such companies in the nation at the time (now up to 44).

Although Apogee Search is proud of its industry acclaim, Apogee President William Leake says, “I would like to see all search marketing firms to become qualified Google AdWords companies. In an industry still filled with far too many hucksters and snake oil sales types, a certification from a credible third-party like Google can help increase overall industry professionalism, and provide a minimum yardstick by which to evaluate vendors.”

Ironically, Apogee Search could and should have been the first Google AdWords Qualified Company in the nation, as their principals have been actively managing Google campaigns since the first day of AdWords, and Yahoo/Overture campaigns since 1998. They are the first to admit their procrastination in passing the final requirement, taking the certification exam. “Showing up late for the Google test was more due to our hectic client schedule, and clearly not because of a lack in aptitude,” joked Brian Combs, Apogee Search VP and Manager of Client Services, who scored a 93 on his first attempt at the AdWords exam. Combs continued, “Even though Google’s passing score is 75% or above, we think we can raise that bar to ensure client success and assurance by making all new Apogee Search employees pass the test with a grade of 90 or above.”

Apogee Search, a search engine marketing firm based in Austin TX, and founded by early internet pioneers and McKinsey & Co. alumni, has rapidly grown to become the pre-eminent SEM agency in Texas. Focusing on a variety of search marketing methods that include: Paid & Natural Search, Affiliate Marketing, and Pay-Per-Call, Apogee Search’s solutions are designed to drive qualified, targeted visitors to B2B and B2C websites for more leads, customers, revenues and profits. “Clients require customers, not clicks,” is a fundamental truth enforced on all Apogee Search campaigns.