There are some basic rules -- the tried and true ones I've been using since 1996 -- that to this day still apply. They are:
1. Lots of good relevant content at your site;
2. Meta Tags (Title, Description, Keyword);
3. Incoming links from high ranking relevant sites;
4. Keeping the site fresh by updating often.
Yes, very basic but these should be the backbone of your site.
#1 is relatively easy. Look at other sites for ideas if you get stumped.
#2 requires knowledge of a little HTML for the Tags, but your webmaster or SEO person should be able to help you.
#3 is always the toughest. Finding a high ranking site that is relevant to your site is not always going to want to link out to you. New Jersey LawSite is a perfect example of a high ranking, site that New Jersey Lawyers would want to link to them.
#4 sounds extremely simple but does require some work on your part since you'll have to provide your webmaster with fresh relative content every so often. Good things do not come to the lazy, but to those who have passion for what they do.
Let's talk more tomorrow.