Which parameter does google value more: number of incoming links or on-page optimizations (meta data and keywords)?

[queenz]

I am just starting with the SEO and I have a client in the travel industry whose website is not ranked well on the search engines. After doing the seo audit we see that the website's on-page optimization (meta titles, meta description, meta keywords and h1, h2, etc tags) is bad. At the same time there are very few incoming links into the website. These are the key 2 issues we found. In order to proceed most effectively, what do you think would be more effective to focus on first? Doing the on-site optimization or focusing more on the link building? Do the search engines, in particular, google - weight more either of these parameters? thanks so much for all your advice! all the best egle

[Max_eMaximize]

Generally Agree with EGOL .. but wanted to add (for queenz) that you seem to answer your own question .. you gotta get your copy and tags down first... paramount .

[queenz]

thanks EGOL for your 2 cents!

[EGOL]

To answer your question....  In low competition SERPs, onpage optimization is very important, however, as competition becomes extreme you are engaged in a "battle of links."

In your situation... travel.... you are going into a battle of links although there can be some long tail plays where overwhelming linkstrength is not required.

I am just starting with the SEO and I have a client in the travel industry whose website is not ranked well on the search engines.

If I was a new SEO I would probably cut my teeth on local sites rather than going out to battle the heavyweights in travel.  Based upon the level of SEO understanding that you revealed in your question....  I think that you need to do a lot of studying fast or get an experienced SEO to help you with this job.   Just my two cents.