10 SEO Tactics You Should Ditch in 2025 (And What Works Instead)
Trust me, I know what works and what doesn’t!
Want to know a universal truth? SEO is always changing.
What worked back then? Probably useless now.
And honestly, some strategies aren’t just outdated — they’re actively hurting your website.
Let’s talk about 10 tactics you need to stop doing right now — and what you should be doing instead.
1. Keyword Stuffing Is Just Cringe Now
Remember the days when you could rank just by repeating the same keyword a million times?
Like: “Best Toronto plumber, call the best plumber in Toronto, because Toronto plumbing is the best”?
Yeah, Google’s way past that.
Nowadays, keyword stuffing doesn’t just annoy readers (because who wants to read that?), it also sends red flags to Google.
Instead, write like a human. If you’re targeting “Toronto plumber,” you could say something like, “Looking for a plumber in Toronto?
We’ve got you covered with everything from emergency repairs to full remodels.” See? It’s natural, and Google still gets the message.
2. Cheap Backlinks Don’t Cut It
Okay, let’s say you’re buying backlinks from some random site promising to “boost your rankings overnight.” Sounds tempting, right? Except Google’s smarter than that now.
Shady low quality links can sink your credibility in no time.
What works now is quality over quantity.
Think partnerships, not shortcuts.
Maybe you guest post for a website in your industry or create a killer resource people actually want to link to.
For example, if you run a bakery, make a guide like “10 Baking Hacks Every Beginner Should Know.” People love that kind of stuff — and they’ll naturally link to it.
3. Not Caring About Mobile? Big Mistake
Here’s the deal:
60% of all searches happen on mobile.
So, if your site isn’t working on someone’s phone, they’re out — and Google notices.
First step? Test your site on your phone.
Does it load fast?
Is the text readable, or do you have to squint and zoom?
Fix the basics.
A good mobile site is easy to scroll, tap, and read — no pinching or waiting for images to load. And if you’re thinking, “This sounds complicated,” it’s not. Just hire a web designer — even a non-technical one can handle it for you.
4. Ignoring Core Web Vitals? Google Won’t Ignore You
Ever been on a site where the page takes forever to load, and every time you try to click something, the layout jumps around? Frustrating, right?
Google tracks that stuff — it’s called Core Web Vitals.
Start simple. Use tools like Google PageSpeed Insights to see what’s slowing you down.
For instance, big images are a common culprit. Compress them using a tool like TinyPNG. And if your page keeps jumping, it’s probably because images or videos don’t have set dimensions.
Fix that, and your site’s way smoother.
5. Throwing Out Random Content? Not Helping
Let me guess — you’re publishing blog after blog, hoping something sticks.
But the reality is, pumping out tons of random posts doesn’t work anymore.
Google cares about quality, not how much you’re churning out.
Instead, take a step back.
What does your audience actually want to read? Say you own a gym. Instead of writing 10 separate posts about “workout tips,” create one solid guide like “How to Build a Workout Plan for Beginners.” Make it detailed, helpful, and worth bookmarking.
Less fluff, more value.
6. Skipping Local SEO? You’re Missing Customers
Let’s say you run a local business. If you’re not optimizing for local searches, you’re basically invisible to people looking for you.
Fun fact: 46% of all Google searches are local.
Think about that.
First, claim your Google Business Profile (used to be called Google My Business).
Add your hours, address, and some photos — make it look legit.
Then, make sure your website mentions your city. Like, if you’re a dentist in Calgary, your homepage should say something like, “Offering family dental care in Calgary for over 10 years.”
Simple? Yeah, but it works.
7. Exact Match Domains? They’re Old News
Back then, having a domain like “BestPlumberToronto.com” was all the rage. Now? It’s outdated, and it makes your site look kinda spammy.
Google cares more about your content than your domain name.
So, pick something that sounds professional and builds trust.
If you’re still using something clunky like “CheapVancouverRoofers.com only god can help you!
Imagine introducing yourself at a networking event like, “Hi, I’m the owner of Cheap Vancouver Roofers Dot Com!” Awkward, right?
Instead, go for something that doesn’t make people cringe — a name that sounds like you’ve got your act together.
Something like “Vancouver Roofing Pros” or “Roof Ready Vancouver.”
It’s clean, it’s modern, and it doesn’t sound like a desperate sales pitch.
Trust me, people will take you more seriously, and Google will, too.
8. Ignoring Visual Content? People Are Bored
Here’s the thing — nobody wants to read a giant wall of text.
Studies even show that pages with visuals get 94% more views.
People want pictures, videos, infographics — something to break it up.
If your site’s feeling dull, try adding some spice.
Maybe a quick “how-to” video on your homepage or a graphic explaining your process.
Let’s say you’re a personal trainer. A simple infographic comparing “Home Workouts vs. Gym Workouts” can catch someone’s eye and keep them on your site longer.
9. Focusing Only on Rankings? You’re Missing the Point
Sure, ranking #1 sounds amazing, but here’s the thing: if no one’s clicking on your link, what’s the point?
These days, features like snippets, images, and videos are stealing the spotlight.
The fix? Optimize for clicks, not just rankings.
Your meta description matters. Don’t write something bland like, “We sell cupcakes.”
Go with something like, “Craving cupcakes? Check out our fresh, handmade treats in downtown Halifax. Baked daily!”
Make people curious enough to click.
10. Thinking SEO’s a “One-and-Done” Deal
If you’re treating SEO like a one-time project, you’re in for a rude awakening.
Google’s algorithm changes all the time (think 600+ updates a year).
Every month, take some time to reconstruct your strategies.
Check for broken links, update old content, and refresh your keyword research.
And hey, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
Follow a few trusted SEO blogs — Moz, Search Engine Journal, whatever works for you — to stay on top of what’s new.
Final Thoughts
SEO isn’t rocket science, but it does require a little TLC. Keep things fresh, focus on quality, and always stay adaptable.
Have questions about SEO? Share your thoughts in the comments, and let’s discuss strategies that work for your needs.
