Enterprises should focus on keyword use in order to improve the search engine ranking of their websites, according to an online analyst.

Graham Charlton, researcher for e-consultancy, said that when businesses are starting up they should employ an expert to take care of search engine optimisation (SEO) for them.

"Essentially what you're doing is targeting keyword searches so what you're looking to do is optimise those keywords," he added.

"There are quite a number of search engine agencies that can help you out."

Mr Charlton went on to emphasise the difference between paid and natural searches, pointing out that those highlighted in pink after a Google search will have been paid for.

Studies carried out by market research firm NPD found 45 per cent of people search by using multiple keywords or key phrases, while 28 per cent use one keyword.

A further 18 per cent of respondents said they use a pre-defined option, such as browsing through a directory category, and nine per cent search by typing in a question.


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