Search engine optimization (SEO) is a set of methodologies aimed at improving the ranking of a web site in search engine listings. The term also refers to an industry of consultants that carry out optimization projects on behalf of client sites.
To obtain maximum search engine visibility, a website must tailor itself to be found by its target audience through internet searches. If a site is to be found, it must contain keyword phrases that match the phrases the target audience is typing into search queries. These keywords are determined by search engine spiders that analyze web page content and keyword relevancy based on an algorithm. Search engine optimization is the process of configuring a website to be more visible to its target audience.*
what are Organic/Natural Search Engine Listings?
Search engine placement (or rankings) is realized through a number of influences. Listings can be positioned in an organic manner or by way of payment. Organic listings are considered because a search engine deems them editorially important and consequently relevant for inclusion, regardless of payment. Meaning, the keyword phrases on the site match the keywords searchers are typing into query fields. Paid Inclusion simply means payment has been made for a site to be included in a search engine directory. This may also be considered “organic” even though the ads are paid for, because the pages usually appear intermixed with unpaid organic results.
The key to improving your web site’s search engine ranking is having highly relevant content on your site that searchers are looking for and will benefit searchers in some way. As an example your web pages could talk about or sell the latest hot digital music product like Apple’s iPod. You could offer insightful information about any given subject (Wikipedia.com), “how to” tutorials (Lynda.com), timely news (CNN.com) or expert advice on any given subject (About.com) – all different areas that people are searching for.
The art and science of Search Engine Optimization is taking this relevant content and placing it on your web pages in such a way that it is “spider friendly,” meaning, there are “keywords” strategically located on the pages (so search engine crawlers/spiders can index your site properly), “and” most importantly people friendly, meaning, that the pages are readable, make sense and are of value to them in some way.