Every website owner wants to increase traffic, and every Internet marketing company advertises myriad ways to generate that traffic. The techniques they tout range from article marketing and blogging to press release distribution and banner ads. Every marketing strategy contributes to your overall goal, but the technique that stands head and shoulders above the rest is search engine submission. That's because search engine submission is a one-time event that can generate lasting results.

When you submit your site to a directory, you're laying the building blocks of organic and sustainable growth. While some marketing efforts are flash-in-the-pan, URL submission works to place your website where it matters: in front of users who are specifically seeking the information, product, or service you offer.

While some propagate the myth that there's a magic formula to successful search engine submission, there's really no alchemy involved. Indeed, there are directories that make it extremely easy to submit a URL. If you're just beginning to promote your website, though, you may find yourself wondering how to separate the best from the rest. What sets great directories apart from their competition?

There are a few different things to look for when finding reputable directories to work with. First, they should only charge you a one-time fee. In other words, you shouldn't have to pay ongoing fees; instead, you should continuously benefit from your URL submission. Second, look for a smaller directory. Although it might seem counterintuitive, users can find you faster and easier with a smaller directory because your site won't be drowned out by so many others. Third, find a directory that counts your visitors and that makes that number available to you. Fourth, look for a directory with a straightforward interface for URL submission. It should only ask for your website title, your URL, your category suggestion, your contact name and email address, and a short description of your site.

But perhaps the most important feature to look for in a directory is that your listing will appear within a short timeframe, such as within 24 hours. All too often, it can feel like search engine submissions go into a black hole, and are not approved for weeks or months. The directory you select should push submissions through at a healthy clip, so you can start getting a return on your investment right away.

When you take these steps, you'll likely discover that you can increase traffic in a number of ways. For example, users who search that specific directory will easily find your site. Likewise, other search engines will index the directory's pages and your site's listing will begin to propagate throughout the Web, drawing even more visitors to your site.

The bottom line? Search engine submission is likely the most important step you can take to promote your website, but the key is to choose a directory that is both affordable and fast. After all, in this economy, it's crucial to get the most bang for your buck.