The simple answer is Stick to the basics..
1. Optimize your page for the keyword(s) you wish to rank for.
2. Analyse the Top Ten pages that are already in place. Get an idea why they are ranking. Observe the common features.
3. Create a content with all features that the ranking contents have with some some extra features that will be more helpful for the visitor. The extra feature should go with the search indent of the visitor.
4. Create every page like this.
I know it requires your effort. But this is the only way which has stability. Maybe other short-cut methods work, but not permanently.
Once you created a good source of content, your page rank will automatically go up. Back links will come automatically.
Creating some content and spending time and money on making back links may work for some time. In stead, spend that time and money on making great content. This will help you succeed in the long run. Back links will come on their own. Don't go for it.
As regards SMO, spent some time and money on SMO. At least share your content on dedicated social media pages at planned intervals.
This will surely put your pages on top.