In 2025, the SEO landscape is dominated by discussions around AI-generated content and frequent algorithm updates.
However, amidst this noise, many marketers overlook classic, yet highly effective SEO strategies that continue to deliver impressive results.
Drawing from real-world experience, here are some underutilized tactics that can significantly boost your site's performance.
Optimizing Image Alt Text and Filenames
One often-ignored SEO strategy is the optimization of image alt text and filenames using long-tail keyword variations.
A few years ago, I worked with a local ceramic artist who had a stunning online portfolio but struggled with low traffic.
Despite trying standard SEO techniques like keyword stuffing and backlink building, the breakthrough came from renaming image files and enhancing alt text.
This simple tweak led to a 40% increase in organic traffic within just a few months, proving the untapped potential of image-based SEO.
Strategic Internal Linking
Another powerful, yet underused tactic is purposeful internal linking.
Rather than scattering random links across a site, creating a logical content journey for both users and search engine bots can yield remarkable results.
While managing a niche blog on vintage bicycle restoration, I implemented a robust internal linking structure that organized content into clear categories: beginner guides, how-to tutorials, and product reviews.
Each page was contextually linked to guide users seamlessly through their learning journey.
This approach not only doubled the average session time but also earned Google's approval, as the clear structure enhanced crawlability and user engagement.
Refreshing Outbound Links
A lesser-known trick is updating old posts with fresh outbound links to trending, authoritative sources.
This signals to Google that your content remains relevant and up-to-date.
By periodically revisiting older articles and linking them to current, high-quality external resources, you can breathe new life into your content without a complete overhaul.
This tactic is particularly effective for maintaining the visibility of evergreen content in competitive niches.
Leveraging FAQ and How-To Schema Markup
Finally, combining FAQ and How-To schema markup is a potent SEO strategy that many marketers overlook.
Schema markup helps search engines better understand your content, increasing the likelihood of earning rich snippets in search results.
For instance, adding FAQ schema to product pages or How-To schema to tutorial content can enhance visibility and click-through rates.
This structured data approach remains a low-effort, high-impact way to stand out in 2025's crowded digital space.
Conclusion
While AI and algorithm updates dominate SEO conversations, these "forgotten" tactics—optimizing images, strategic internal linking, refreshing outbound links, and leveraging schema markup - continue to deliver measurable results.
By revisiting these classic strategies, marketers can unlock significant growth opportunities and stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of SEO.