Since Instagram moved away from the chronological order feed, it feels like the algorithm needs a crystal ball to achieve the company objectives. Although you might craft the perfect Instagram post with a great caption and a high-quality image, the post is not guaranteed to hit. Often, this leaves creators feeling defeated. While the algorithm is unpredictable, it does not take miracles to break through the noise.
Hootsuite describes the Instagram algorithm as a set of rules that determines which post gets seen. Instagram wants you to get the most out of your time spent on social media, so they use technology to personalize your experience while utilizing the app. The algorithm decides which posts go to the top of your newsfeed, what becomes featured on your explore tab, and the order in which Stories, Live videos, and Reels appear.
The algorithm takes all of your Instagram activity, evaluates it, and decides which posts they think you would enjoy. This activity is based on posts you have liked, commented on, and saved in the past. Instagram also looks at the overall popularity of the post determined by the number of interactions and impressions received. If an account has had lots of interaction with users in the past weeks, it signals the algorithm back to the account to content other users could like.
The information we discussed above may seem like many extensive and complicated variables leaving so much up to chance. However, at the end of the day, the Instagram algorithm rewards engaging and creative content. Before posting, go the extra mile and try to uncover what your audience is interested and entertained by.
So, how do you put yourself in your audience’s shoes? The simplest way is monitoring audience feedback, comments, and engagements. After doing research on the data, experiment with different tactics to see what hits your audience and what does not. Also, do not be afraid to take a peek at what your competitors are doing. At Peppr, we encourage and assist our clients in conducting competitor analysis. Think: What competitor has a proven track record? Take these strategies, learn from them, and adapt them to fit the model and goals of your organization.
When it comes to the algorithm, we encourage you not to look at it as restrictions but rather as encouragement for the content you create. You know your audience well, and you also know what will spark their interest. Do not let the idea of satisfying technology stump your creativity and the genuine connections that only you know how to create.
If you want more tips on how to up your algorithm game, check out our Pep Talk. Happy Posting!
