There are tons of search engine optimization strategies, but not everyone has shown a proven success. Some strategies are more challenging and time-consuming than others. Some require expert help while others can be performed as a DIY project. Some will take lots of time to bring about results, while others will fulfill your need for instant gratification.

Basically, what we’re saying is that each SEO strategy is unique, so you need to decide which ones are right for you, and which ones can wait until later. Hire an expert to help out when need be. If proven results are what you’re hoping for, these 4 common search engine optimization strategies will certainly get the job done.

Focus on UX Design

Nowadays, SEO is tied to the user experience more than it ever was in the past. This means that web pages aren’t just being ranked based on content, but they’re being ranked based on how the user experiences the page. Does an individual spend a lot of time on your site, browsing and clicking around? This shows that the user is having an overall positive experience.

That person is actually getting something of value from visiting your website. When that happens, Google sees your website as valuable and therefore will give it a better ranking. This is why you need to always keep the user in mind for all website development tasks. Investing in a UX designer is one way to do that.

Start Optimizing for Voice Search

Voice searches are taking over the internet; a recent study shows that nearly 50% of all internet searches are performed with the use of voice. A big reason for this is the introduction of devices like the Amazon Alexa and Apple’s Siri. Google Home is another popular, and all of these devices are entirely focused on voice searching. More companies are attempting to optimize their websites for these searches, and it’s actually not that difficult to do.

Build Your Backlinks Across the Web

The concept of backlinking has been around for a while, but this SEO practice is drastically changing. The fact still remains that ranking well without backlinks is extremely difficult. However, SEO experts are building backlinks in a unique way by not only focusing on the quality of the link but focusing on variety as well. Instead of putting all of your eggs in one backlink basket, spread your links among a variety of sites (the more well-known the better).

Target Your Local Audience

You’re not doing yourself any favors by failing to focus on your local audience. Nearly half of all Google searches come from internet users in search of something within their local area. People will always search for information on local shops and restaurants, such as hours of operation, menu items, and prices. If you own a brick and mortar retail shop, do your very best to optimize your site, not for all internet users, but for local ones.