Search engines read text. They do not read pictures, images, animations, javascript, or any of the other special effects that are so popular. If you start your page out with an image map, there will be no text for the engine to register. The first few sentences of text should contain the keywords used both in your meta tags and in your title. Use your headline tags and include keywords in your headings.
Some search engines put more importance on words enclosed between heading tags.
Lastly, use keywords in the Alt tags that accompany your graphics. Arrange to have other sites link to you. With some search engines, retrieval of pages is a popularity contest. The more sites that link to you, the better your chances of having your site appear high in the ratings. Return to Top of List Other Search Engines and Directories There hundreds, maybe thousands of smaller search engines and directories that will list your site, often for free.