Author: Sharon Housley

Search engine optimization is a process, one that must always be revisited and adapted as search algorithms are changed by the search engines. Because SEO is a constant process, it is often pushed to the bottom of the "to do list" of marketers. Be that as it may, resolve not to ignore search engine optimization as it cycles its way through your task list. Give search engine optimization the attention that it deserves.

There are few things that you can do that will result in virtually "free" traffic, and therefore SEO deserves both time and attention.

1. Unique Titles

Every page should have a unique title that relates to what is included on that specific webpage. Do not make the mistake of using the same title on every page on a website.

2. Unique Descriptions

Each and every webpage within a website should contain a unique meta tag description. Audit web pages and develop summary descriptions of the page's contents; including critical keywords and phrases.

3. Robots.txt

Check the webpage's robots.txt files. An incorrectly formed robots.txt may prevent search engines from properly spidering web pages within a website.

4. Link Building

Participate in link building opportunities. Building links will increase a website's popularity and search engines use this as a factor when they weigh search rankings.

5. Integrated Keywords

Integrate the appropriate keywords into the websites header tags. There is no point in optimizing a website for keywords that will not convert. Evaluate keywords and phrases that are most effective, and then integrate them into the website.

6. Participate

The online conversation is no longer a quiet hum. Find related forums and blogs and become part of the community. Participate in the discussion and post thoughtful comments that relate to your industry.

7. Log Analysis

Evaluate your logs to determine the habits of website visitors. If there are pages that a high percentage of potential customers leave your website, be sure to make changes. Evaluate the keyword that attract the website traffic and improve on them.

8. Get Social

Social media is a burgeoning market. Develop a comprehensive plant to integrate social media into your 2009 marketing and promotional campaign. Leverage social media websites to increase your websites popularity and exposure.

9. Usability

Add alt tags to images on your website. This will increase the searchability of your website. Additionally, these types of tactics will make your website easier for the visually impaired to navigate.

10. Go Web 2.0

Add tutorials, podcasts, RSS feeds, and videos to your website as a part of your marketing strategy. All of these interactive elements and mediums can attract new traffic to a website. Additionally, many web 2.0 elements can be promoted in alternative channels, increasing your website's incoming links.

For the coming year be sure to develop a comprehensive strategy to improve your search engine exposure in 2009.

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This article may be used freely in opt-in publications and websites, provided that the resource box is included and the links are active. A courtesy copy of the issue or a link to any online posting would be greatly appreciated send an email to sharon[at]notepage.net.

Additional articles available for publication available at http://www.small-business-software.net/free-website-content.htm

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About the Author:
Sharon Housley manages marketing for FeedForAll http://www.feedforall.com software for creating, editing, publishing RSS feeds and podcasts. In addition Sharon manages marketing for RecordForAll http://www.recordforall.com audio recording and editing software. "