Have you ever noticed that some posts on Instagram are hours late but at the top of your feed? Were you ever curious as to why some posts have more engagement than others? Well that is all due to Instagram’s algorithm. Although Instagram’s algorithm has never been confirmed, the changes on the platform has been obvious. In previous years, Instagram was very simple. You’d see the latest post at the top of the feed and as you casually scroll through Instagram the older post will show. Over the years Instagram has changed its method and implemented a new method in which we see various posts. Currently, you’ll see post based on your interaction, popularity, and engagement; this also goes for who users that see your post. Let’s take a more in-depth look at Instagram’s algorithm and what content you’re seeing on your timeline.
Usage
Instagram uses recognition technology to calculate the post you engage with the most in order to provide more content on your timeline that caters to you. For example, if you frequently engage with posts about sports or dogs, you are more likely to see these post on your timeline first opposed to a more recent post. This is Instagram’s way of creating a better user experience. In order to ensure that you see the post that you want, intentionally seek out people you are interested and Instagram will follow.
Hashtags
Hashtags are the best way to attract an organic audience. Hashtags can be annoying or seem a bit spammy if you used incorrectly. However, hashtags that are related to your industry, your company, or the city you are in can attract relevant eyeballs. Industry hashtags allow you to be apart of a community built with people like you who advocate for and love the industry that they are in. Company hashtags allow people who are interested in your company to easily find you. Local hashtags allow people who are interested in products and services in your area to find you. Hashtags give your potential customers a direct link to your most recent post which will help you to initiate conversations and build engagement
Here are some examples:
| Local Hashtags | Company Hashtags | Industry Hashtags |
| #nycflorist | #FullBloomFlowerShop | #myILEA |
| #detroithairstylist | #NatNaturalHairSalon | #naturalhair |
| #CreditRepairNC | #ThomasCreditRepair | #creditrepair |
Engagement & Frequency
The more you engage, the more engagement that you will get. The Instagram algorithm is slightly different when it comes to who views your most recent post. In order for more people to view your post, you have to engage with your followers and post consistently. For example, frequently liking, commenting, and engaging with your followers determines who sees your most recent post on someone else’s timeline. The more people who you engage with on Instagram, the more people will come back to your profile and engage with you. Posting often and consistently also strengthens engagement. If you show up every day at the same time, people begin to expect and trust that you will be there every time. This helps to build an authentic relationship with your followers.
Just Be You
Just be real. All social media platforms reward people who are authentic and relatable. Use it to the best of your ability and to your advantage to reach your marketing goals for your company. You are unique and the world wants to hear your unique perspective. Be natural and have fun!
Leave a Reply