: I would also make sure you're taking advantage of the meta tags that go in your ... for example: <meta name="description" content="This is the personal website for My Name"> <meta name="keywords"

I would also make sure you're taking advantage of the meta tags that go in your ... for example:

<meta name="description" content="This is the personal website for My Name">
<meta name="keywords" content="My Name, Web Development, Awesomeness, etc...">

SEO on google is a tricky subject... whether it's due to the fabled 'sandbox effect' or what... You said you have no competition on the name so I won't go any further than saying it'll be tough if your name is 'John Smith'.

Another great reference that I send all my buddies to, though a little old, is a good start:
www.google.com/events/io/2009/sessions/SearchFriendlyDevelopment.html
Nice little vid there. Hope that helps!

Good luck mate!

EDIT: @John Conde - his problem isn't page rank. It's an issue with being identified. Adding the tags may allow you to be recognized by the things you type in... now, if someone else wanted to use your name on their web page they have a chance to outrank you, but you'll at least be on the list.