This post is about beating the Instagram Algorithm.
The Instagram Algorithm is a common topic that is surrounded by groans and anger.
Although the algorithm has changed (and will continue to change in the future), there are things you can do to increase followers and engagement on your feed regardless of algorithm.
You do not need to fear the Instagram algorithm, because when utilized correctly, it can really benefit you and your brand.
YOU CAN STILL GROW ON INSTAGRAM IN 2020!
A hot topic within the social media marketing community for the past 3+ years has been the Instagram algorithm. A couple of years ago, Instagram changed its algorithm away from the chronological feed. Instead, it chooses to highlight profiles that you interacted with the most.
Almost immediately, everyone’s likes and comments dropped on their photos. Engagement went down drastically.
*cue angry brands, digital marketers, influencers, and small businesses*
While the algorithm may have changed, I do feel the need to clear up a very common myth. Many people believe that Instagram hides their posts from their followers. This is simply untrue. Here is Instagram’s comment on the matter themselves.
So although you may not be one of the first posts to show up in someone’s feed, you can rest assured that your post will show up if they scroll down far enough.
So now what can you do?
You might be asking yourself what you can do to get yourself seen on Instagram even with the new algorithm. Below I have listed 3 tips for beating the Instagram algorithm.
1.INTERACT
Interacting with your followers is one of the most important things you can do to grow on Instagram. Make sure that you are commenting on posts, responding to comments on your posts, and liking others’ content.
Not only does this make you an active user, but it encourages others to interact with your posts as well.
Leaving genuine comments on other posts may lead others to click on your profile or even leave a comment on one of your posts.
Let’s not forget that the algorithm shows users content that they interact with the most!
This does not mean leaving a million random comments on profiles. A simple heart emoji or “cute!” is not going to cut it. Make a genuine connection with the account and an authentic comment.
ACTIONABLE GOAL: Make 5 GENUINE comments a day.
2. Utilize Instagram Stories
Ever since their debut in 2016, Instagram stories have been a game-changer for users. Instagram Stories allow followers to view a more genuine and authentic view of your life/business. It also allows you to save these videos/photos to highlights to your profile.
Studies have shown that more people watch stories with sound on than people who are looking through the feed.
Take advantage of this and post videos that explain you, your product, how-to, or a behind the scenes look.
You can also post your “feed post” onto your story encouraging people to go check it out.
I personally receive double the engagement on my stories than I do my posts, and I know I am not the only one!
ACTIONABLE GOAL: Post an Instagram story today about you/your business that provides VALUE and save it as a highlight to your profile.
3. Craft Captions with Care
Captions are often one of the most overlooked parts of your Instagram strategy.
While it may be tempting to just put an emoji or something generic (we are all guilty of doing this), crafting a caption that tells a story or provides value encourages followers to like, comment, or best of all….save.
Saving a post shows Instagram that users like your content so much, they were willing to save it. This automatically is going to make your post show up in feeds and explorer pages because Instagram ranks it as important and relevant content.
Now you may be asking yourself, what makes someone want to save a post?
Writing a caption that provides value. This could be a recipe, a how-to, a list of sales going on, movies you should watch (the possibilities are endless). You want to provide content that makes your audience want to save so they can remember it later.
Write a call to action! This is something I always drill into my client’s minds. People like to be told what the next step is. On your caption write “save this post so you can keep the recipe” or “comment a friends’ name that could use this”. Ending with a “call to action” is a simple way to lead your followers to what you want them to do next.
SPEAKING OF INSTAGRAM? FOLLOW ME HERE!
I hope you enjoyed this post about beating the Instagram Algorithm. Check out my other posts about crafting your digital brand strategy.
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