Instagram has become one of the most popular social media platforms, with over 950 million monthly active users and more than 80 million photos posted per day. Yet, Instagram is not just about creating content, but also about maximizing its engagement and reach. And behind the scenes of Instagram is its algorithm: the tool that decides what appears on people’s feeds and how. In this comprehensive article, we will explain what is the Instagram algorithm, how it works and how to utilize it for maximum results.
What is the Instagram Algorithm?
The Instagram Algorithm is a complicated set of calculations and variables that determine which posts appear in a user’s feed. Its goal is to show users the posts, stories, and videos that are most relevant and interesting to them, based on the type of content, timing, and people they follow. Posts are chosen based on the performance of past posts in a similar category, as well as the user’s behavior on the platform. Though this is always changing, it is important to understand what makes Instagram’s algorithm work, so you can maximize your reach and engagement.
How Does the Algorithm Work?
Among all of the posts that Instagram users put out every day, how can the algorithm decide which ones are worth pushing to the top? The answer comes in four parts: Interest, Relationship, Timeliness, and Frequency.
Interest
The algorithm pays special attention to the type of content that the user has shown an interest in. If the user has been engaging with and liking similar posts, the algorithm will push more of that type of content to the top.
Relationship
This part of the algorithm is all about the relationships between the user and their friends, family, and favorite celebrities. If the user has been engaging more often with posts from certain people, those posts will be more likely to show up in the user’s feed.
Timeliness
Instagram wants to make sure that users see fresh content first, so newer posts will take precedence over older ones. This means that posts that have recently been posted will be more likely to appear in the user’s feed.
Frequency
Finally, the algorithm looks at the frequency of posts from an account. If a person is posting content more often than usual, the algorithm will recognize this and push those posts to the top.
How Can You Use the Algorithm to Your Marketing Advantage?
Once you understand the basics of how the Instagram algorithm works, you can use this knowledge to your marketing advantage. Here are some tips for succeeding with the algorithm:
- Post Quality, Engaging Content
The most important factor of the algorithm is what type of content is being posted. If you want to maximize your reach, you need to post quality, engaging content that people will like and comment on.
- Monitor Your Performance
You need to analyze your posts to see what works and what doesn’t. Check the metrics to see which of your posts received the most engagement, and use that information to post more content that has a similar style.
- Think About Timing
Timeliness is an important factor in Instagram’s algorithm. You should post regularly and make sure you are posting at the right times. This may require some trial and error, but if you time your posts correctly, they will have a better chance of being seen by more people.
- Use Hashtags
Another way to reach more people is to use hashtags. Hashtags are a great way to connect with other users who may be interested in your content, and they can help you gain more visibility on the platform.
- Take Advantage of Live Videos
Live videos are given priority in Instagram’s algorithm, meaning that if you go live you have a better chance of reaching more people. Taking advantage of live videos is a great way to get more engagement and reach more followers.
- Engage With Other Users
Engage with other users on the platform; comment on their posts, ask them questions, and respond to their comments. This will show the algorithm that your account is active and engaging, which will help you reach more people.
Instagram’s algorithm can be intimidating for new users, but with the right strategies, it can be utilized to your advantage. By understanding the fundamentals of the algorithm and using them to your advantage, you can maximize your reach and engagement on the platform. So don’t be afraid to try new tactics and utilize the algorithm to get the most out of Instagram.
