Origin of SEMPO

by Lid

While wandering the Web recently, I came across an entry on the SEMPO FAQ page about how SEMPO came to be. According to the FAQ, SEMPO was officially founded at its inaugural meeting at SES San Jose, August 2003.

But then, I want to know what happened unofficially.

I came across this gem in an archived WebMama journal (Feb 2003):

“What is SEMPO? Is it a fusion noodle restaurant? The name of a Japanese World War II consul general who helped to save Polish Jewish refugees? A French marine environment simulator? Well, yes, but it’s much more. It’s the first professional organization for search engine marketing professionals - Search Engine Marketing Professional Organization. SEMPO.”

Barb goes on to talk about the creation and vision of SEMPO - interesting read.

Rob Garner’s take, Search in the City of Dallas, on Search Insider (Feb 2007)

“I also have a vivid recollection of Barbara Coll, CEO of WebMama.com, walking down the hallway of the Adam’s Mark in 2002 with a few other search engine optimizers to discuss the formation of a new association she called “SEMPO,” or the Search Engine Marketing Professionals Organization. So Coll and company hammered out the details for what has become the national group for SEM professionals.”

Sphere: Related Content