Long before the Internet era, Derek Galon worked for many years as a business manager and promoter, in Europe and in Canada, gaining experience and honing his skills and knowledge.
With the arrival of the Internet, he turned his talents to that area and devoted himself to mastering techniques of Web promotion, which he finds a fascinating challenge. Running several successful Websites as well as a small business off-line, he has gained a deep understanding of the expectations, needs, and hopes of both business owners and customers. By being actively involved in handling these tasks on a day-to-day basis, he keeps constantly abreast of current developments in this ever-expanding area. All the knowledge thus gained, he puts into the promotion work he does for his constantly growing circle of clients. His Internet service specializes in strategies and tactics for increasing on-line traffic and long term Internet success.

In recognition of his skills and knowledge, he was invited to evaluate leading edge e-commerce software by Hewlett-Packard, offered by Master Card to participate in a large on-line promotion, etc. His Websites received several Web awards, and were highlighted in publications like USA Today, Windows Magazine, and others. He has been interviewed by the Globe and Mail and by several European newspapers, and his professional suggestions have been published on-line and used to improve Internet commerce software.

The present book was created with the small business and sole entrepreneur in mind. Using the knowledge and experience gained in the course of his work, and condensing it into simple, straight-forward terms, set out in concise, well ordered chapters, Derek Galon has created a useful, practical tool that can be of help both to the novice and to the more practiced hand. The material includes detailed characteristics of the major search engines, insightful descriptions of methods of effective Web promotion, as well as advanced techniques of improving Website visibility on-line. Supported with numerous helpful tips, additional details on special promotional strategies, and information on sources of various free do-it-yourself materials, the book is a comprehensive and effective guide to successful Web promotion. If you are a small business owner, serious about starting or perfecting your business on the Web, and looking for shortcuts that will save you time and stress - this book is for you!

Anna M.G.Lewinska - editor