There are so many tips and tricks all over this board it is difficult to encapsulate it in one post. Try the excellent "site search" facility on the top menu, and key in a few phrases relating to your question.
Google is a superb resource and simply requires a little care and attention in feeding the spider.
Google used one database and filters from the .com to the .co.uk option.
Check you are actually in the database in the first instance.
Make sure you've got some relevant, inbound links to your site. For example, Yahoo or ODP, or a few relevant sites that are already in Google's DB. Do this before submitting. If you've already submitted, get the link relevancy sorted as soon as possible.
You won't go wrong with Google if you focus on good page content aimed at your keyphrases and keywords.
It's capability to return a highly relevant page never ceases to amaze me.
I still make use of ALT tags and Meta tags, although, content really is the key to long terms success.
This a small answer to a BIG question.
Try the search facility here [searchengineworld.com] - it's really good.