Some people have a hard time understanding the concept of Search Engine Optimization (SEO). The notion of developing a website based on principles that involve certain words seems confusing and perhaps even a bit like hocus-pocus. In its most simple form SEO is something like the brightest thread in a tapestry or the point leader in a basketball game. This method is something like finding your favorite sports drink in a store filled with similar bottles. The use of Search Engine Optimization provides an intense level of satisfaction for search engines that have been looking specifically for the best use of virtually every keyword or phrase imaginable. Let me suggest one more analogy related to this principle. Imagine a diamond buyer looking for the best overall selection of diamonds. This buyer investigates every possible seller in the world and makes the determination to buy from a seller that has proven they have the greatest number of gems to choose from.

When you approach website design you absolutely must have at least a primary understanding of SEO principles.

This method is reminiscent of that diamond dealer and his search for the seller with the most diamonds. Your consistent use of the keyword or phrase you have chosen is like a growing collection of diamonds that search engines are looking for. Search engines are on a never-ending search for the best sites. When they get to your online business site they subject it to complete scrutiny. They will scan every word searching for that common thread, highest scorer or sports drink. How does your site stack up against other sites that have also selected the keyword or phrase you are using? There are a few things you should pay attention to when you develop your keyword-enriched site. The Things to Do Make sure you research keywords or phrases that may provide the best response from search engines. Make sure you develop your website with the chosen keyword used in every section of the site. This includes sections such as “About Us” as well as the knowledge-based content you will provide. Make sure to add new content on a regular basis. Search engines pay attention to sites that are consistently updated. The Things to Avoid Make sure you do not stuff your site with the chose keyword or phrase. A percentage of 5% or less is about right. When you stuff your content with too many keywords it can be awkward to read and usually raises a red flag for search engines. Make sure you do not fill portions of each page with invisible keywords. This is something that has been done primarily in the past to get a higher ranking, but virtually all of these sites have been caught and penalized for bad online behavior. Make sure you do not treat the impact of SEO with contempt or disregard.

This concept can have the greatest impact on future site-based traffic. Search engines want to find your site and they want to reward you with improved site rankings, but they need your cooperation in helping them find your site so they can let others know you exist.