Nothing in the world of social media marketing sparks more debate than the elusive Instagram algorithm. We scrutinize engagement numbers, experiment with tools, and adapt content formats—all in pursuit of its favor. Whether our metrics soar or plummet, the algorithm remains an enigma.
Why is it so elusive? Here are three reasons:
Highly Personalized: The algorithm tailors content to individual users.
Constantly Changing: Instagram tweaks its algorithms frequently.
Platform-Specific: Different rules apply to various parts of the platform.
But there’s a fourth truth: Instagram guards its algorithm as a proprietary secret. While they provide general insights, the inner workings remain hidden.
Here’s what you need to know:
Reels Get the Most Reach
Video rules. Reels, with their motion, sound, and emotional impact, take center stage. They’re not just popular; they’re your ticket to expanding reach. Reels focus on recommendations, making them a prime opportunity to attract non-followers and convert them into followers.
Carousels for Photo Posts
Photos aren’t obsolete! Instagram realized it veered too far from its photography roots. Carousel posts—up to 15 images—now shine. Users might see your post multiple times as they scroll, boosting engagement.
Remember, understanding the algorithm beats chasing cheat codes. Experiment, adapt, and stay informed to thrive on Instagram! 📸✨
Carousels Boost Engagement
Photos remain a viable way to engage with your audience and grow your presence. When posting photos, consider using the carousel format. Why? Because your post may appear in a user’s feed more than once. If they scroll past it initially, they might see the second photo in your carousel later. That’s up to 10 times the engagement opportunity compared to a single photo.
Tip: Photo dumps, which include multiple images, can be particularly engaging in carousel format.
Reshares Matter
Most Instagram engagement occurs in hidden spaces—direct messages (DMs). Users share more photos and videos in DMs than in Stories. While we can’t directly track DM interactions, reshares are a significant signal to the Instagram algorithm. They not only bring users to check their DMs but also foster ongoing conversations within the app.
Note: Instagram considers reshareable content as “conversation starters.”
Shorter Reels Perform Best
Instagram isn’t a long-form video platform. While you can post videos up to fifteen minutes long, shorter reels tend to perform better. Focus on concise, engaging content to capture your audience’s attention.
Remember, understanding these rules can enhance your Instagram strategy! 📸✨
