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SEO or search engine optimization is the art/science of modifying or creating content for pages in a web site so they can be found when someone searches for key words and phrases using an Internet search engine. Some common techniques and known requirements are to create custom page titles and URLs that include the target keywords. You should then create relevant content and sparingly include the keywords and key phrases. It isn’t necessary but it doesn’t hurt to use keywords in the heading tags and you can even highlight them using bold text or strong tags.

Text links for navigation are very useful too. You should include your keywords in the text navigation links on your website. It is very important to add new content to your website on a regular basis. These are the main things you can do to improve your search engine position by editing your web pages.

The real power in search optimization comes from growing or building links to your web pages. Growing links is the preferred option but if nobody sees your content then it is difficult to grow links. That’s why it’s often necessary to build links. There are a few ways you can do this.

• Submit your site to directories like www.dmoz.org
• Become a member of organizations like the local Chamber of Commerce
• Write articles for other blogs and online magazines that let you link to your web site.
• Engage in conversations on social media sites like www.facebook.com and twitter.com
• Create a useful application and give it away for free

Let’s look at these one at a time.

Directory Submission

You can submit your site to a number of free directories. You can also have your site included in some paid directories like Best of the Web
Search for niche directories related to your industry, you will be surprised what you find.

Memberships

Join the chamber of commerce and be sure they add you to their online directory. Look for other local groups or clubs related to your industry and see if you can get listed as a member.

Blogs and Articles

If you have a blog then make sure your posts are submitted automatically to sites like technorati. Tweet your posts and link to them on facebook. Ask your friends with blogs to write about your company and link to it. Find some blogs in your industry that allow guest blogging. Submit articles to some of the popular article sites. Make sure you write good content because you will be associated with the posts and articles. It’s also important because if the content is good then more people will link to it.

Social Networking

Use the social networking sites just like you would in a personal gathering. You need to endear the people that are listening. Don’t try to sell them. You can link to your posts and articles in between your normal conversations but don’t be spammy. You need to build an online personality or persona for this to work.

Web Application or Free Download

If you can create a useful online application or tool or offer something free to download then you can expect a lot of inbound links to come your way. People love free programs, downloads and tools. It can be as simple as a free blog theme or an IP address tool, even an amusing real time counter of something weird will encourage natural links.

When building links try to use inbound link text with your keywords in it. That should get you started, get creative and understand that you don’t stand a chance without some links to your web site.