Search engine optimization is the methodology used to make your website attractive to search engines like Google and Yahoo. It's making your web site "findable" for people searching for what you offer, be it a service, a product, or just basic information.

Why it's important to be optimized.

The ability to search has changed our way of life. If you have any questions about any subject, the first thing you do is hop on the Internet, proceed directly to your search engine of choice, and type in the name of what you're searching for.

This is where the true marketing meets the emerging media, as your web site needs to have the words that a potential client or reader typed into that search engine. Ensuring that your website can be found is what search engine optimization is all about.

What does search engine optimization include?

For the optimization of most sites, search engine optimization includes:

• Finding and using the correct keywords
• Establishing solid inbound links
• Creating a web site that includes regularly updated content.