Search Engine Optimization does not involve the complexity of algorithms, trends, and scripts. The truth is, there are simple techniques that experienced web developers and SEO specialists consistently implement to get effective results. The first and most basic SEO techniques begin in the head.

While developing the correct mindset is important, what I really mean is the HTML content between each web pages opening and closing tags.

Every well developed web page has key elements within these tags that might seem inconsequential but actually play a vital role in not only search engine listings but page distinction and identification. These aspects perform the simple duty of providing basic information to a client’s browser and can be easily overlooked or under appreciated.

The Title Tag

The most important tag to include within the head of any web page is the title. The title is displayed at the top of the browser window (and may be displayed on the content tab in some browsers). The content of a web pages title tag is also, often the title used on web links, particularly in social media submissions and almost exclusively in search engine listings. It sets a readers expectation of what is to follow.

Because the title is one of the first elements rendered by the browser, it is the perfect opportunity to begin optimization. Search engines give this prime web real estate more weight when calculating results and considers the title a vital element on every page. The choice of an effective title for your web pages can significantly impact the quality and quantity of your search engine leads.

Meta Detail: Description

While there is some debate regarding the weight of search terms used in the description meta tag, this tag plays a significant role in the results of your search engine optimization. In the past, search engines used the description given in this meta tag when displaying search results. Now, while results usually gather their information from the instance of particular keywords in the pages main content the description meta tag still impacts search engine rankings.

Google representative, Vanessa Fox confirms that the tag plays an important role. It is important to use an unique description for every page to prevent duplicate content penalties. While it is impossible to know exactly how much power your web page description holds in final results, it is opportunity to optimize your pages with a mind to your keywords and content that should not be overlooked.

Meta Detail: Keywords

There is no arguing that keywords and keyword phrases generate maximum impact when optimizing you web pages for search engine results. The keyword meta tag allows us to add additional focus to up to twenty keywords and keyword variations every page. The methods of selecting keywords and using keywords effectively in your site content is more than this post could possibly begin to contain but in most cases, the obvious keywords to use are self-evident.

While there is no way to control how, or if, the information you provide in these tags is displayed in search results, the inclusion of accurate, relevant, and unique keywords and descriptions can influence a searchers choice to click through to your site. They allow searchers to evaluate the quality and relevance your content may have for their current needs. This leads to increased targeting and decreased bounce rates.

Points To Remember

• Search engines each work in differing ways.
• Small changes can create a significant increase in resulting traffic.
• SEO techniques are often basic and simple to implement
• Each page of your website should have these important head elements
• Each web page should have a unique title, description, and keywords.

Finally, when considering SEO remember – UNIQUE – RELEVANT – DESCRIPTIVE

Any questions?