A popular topic, and one that is of interest to both brands and influencers, is understanding how the Instagram algorithm works and how to use it to your advantage. With an effort to improve transparency, Instagram has explained how the algorithm is based on machine learning, so it creates a unique feed for everyone. In order to understand the algorithm, there are three main factors that determine what you see on your feed.
Interest
Instagram predicts what you want to see by your past behaviour, so it is more likely to show similar types of posts in the future.
Relationship
The algorithm bumps up posts from people you’ve interacted with a lot in the past. This can be through tagging each other in posts, leaving comments and exchanging DMs. Therefore, it is vita for brands and creators to focus on community engagement.
Timeliness
How recent a post was shared will affect whether it's pushed to the top of people’s feeds. This means it is important to understand when your audience is online to ensure they are seeing your posts.
So now we know how the algorithm works, let’s talk about specific tactics you can use to guarantee that more people see your content.
Post Consistently
Consistency gives followers something to look forward to. Followers that know when your content is up are more likely to engage more. In order to get traction with the Instagram algorithm, you need to build relationships with your audience. Building out a posting schedule that works for you and sticking to it is a great way to help you be consistent!
Use hashtags properly
Hashtags are an effective way of getting your content seen by those most likely to engage with it. Where your content gets more attention, the algorithm will make sure even more eyes see it. However, it is important to use hashtags relevant to your brand or industry.
Engage with posts
As the Instagram algorithm aims to show off the most engaging pages, you need to look for the best ways to interact with your audience. You should want to create meaningful connections with your followers. This can be either through likes or commenting on posts, as well as driving conversations through DMs.
Make your photos stand out
Stepping up your photo quality and adding bold and bright colours can help get people engaging with your posts. By creating eye-popping images, it will make people stop in their tracks and like your posts. Additionally, you should consider using apps to give your imagery a more professional feel, as well as an app to plan your posts to ensure your feed looks aesthetically pleasing, such as UNUM.
Go live more often
Although live videos don’t have any specific effect on the Instagram algorithm, they do generate notifications to your followers by putting itself atop of their Stories feed. So why not go live and connect with your followers by sharing what you're doing during lockdown. The beauty of going live allows you to create less polished and relaxed content.
If you are interested in working with like-minded brands or talent to create authentic collaborations, then look no further, contact us today.
hello@theinfluenceroom.com
