Search Engine Optimization (SEO) (or search optimization or web site marketing) is the most important aspect of website design and development IF you are relying on search optimization to provide you with leads and customers.  Yet, SEO remains an elusive goal.  Ideally, SEO will position your business on page one of Google, Yahoo, and MSN as people search the key word that relates to your business.  Ideally, this optimization will be of little or no cost to you.  The ideal is a good goal but it's better to shoot for the "best possible ranking." 

Although Google is very egalitarian, there is still a benefit to those who pay SEO companies to increase web traffic by enhancing links, focusing on key words, blogging, creating PPC campaigns, and writing keyword rich content.  There are a number of ways to enhance your ranking but it's no mystery (if you are prepared to read many books and web articles.)

The best way to increase web traffic via website marketing is to touch your website (i.e. update its content) regularly.  Whether you tackle website promotion by writing a blog or update content regularly with a content management program, do update your website with relevant content routinely and regularly.  This practice will not only increase web traffic but also allow for search optimization and website promotion. 

Second, do a keyword search assessment or hire someone to do a keyword search assessment in order to generate meta source code and keyword rich content.  When people search key words, your website will appear.

Third, for relevant website marketing, to increase web traffic, and for search optimization, build links with companies that are complementary to yours.

Fourth, for search optimization pay attention to your H1, H2, H3, H4 title tags.  Ensure they are keyword rich so when people search keyword your website appears.

Fifth, register your site with all of the major engines to ensure you are "listed."  This technique is an often overlooked but critical part of website promotion and website marketing.

Those five steps alone will increase web traffic and raise your rankings above your competitors.  For search optimization and to increase web traffic, completing these five steps will help. If we can be of service, let us know.