How the Instagram algorithm works

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The Instagram algorithm is a complex and powerful mechanism that determines which posts users see on their feed. Understanding how this algorithm works is essential for anyone who wants to optimize their presence on the platform and reach a wider audience.

But the functioning of an algorithm is a closely guarded secret by social media. After all, it is the core of how this type of application works. So how can we understand how it operates? The answer is the fundamental principle of digital marketing: through testing and user experience.

In this article, we will explore in detail how the Instagram algorithm and how you can use it to your advantage.

The fundamental pillars of the Instagram algorithm

The Instagram algorithm is based on three fundamental pillars: interest, topicality and relationship. Let's see what each of them means:

Interest

The Instagram algorithm analyzes a user’s interaction history to understand their interests and preferences. This includes likes, comments, shares, and time spent viewing a particular type of content. Thus, posts that a user interacts with more frequently are more likely to appear in their feed, as the algorithm assumes that these posts are relevant and interesting to the user.

Current affairs

The time factor is crucial in Instagram algorithm. Newer posts are prioritized over older posts. This means that newer posts from accounts a user follows are more likely to appear in their feed. The platform aims to keep users' feeds updated with fresh and relevant content.

Relationship

The algorithm values authentic interactions between users. This includes likes, comments, direct messages, and tags. The more positive and authentic interactions a user has with a given account, the more likely they are to see content from that account in their feed. This encourages genuine engagement and rewards healthy online relationships.

Additionally, the algorithm will also take into account the engagement of the people you follow. If these people interact with certain posts, there is a greater chance of that type of post being shown to you.

Engagement and authentic interactions

Authentic engagement is crucial to deciphering the Instagram algorithm. Genuine comments and meaningful interactions carry more weight than mere likes. The algorithm recognizes real interactions and rewards posts that generate meaningful conversations.

In this way, responding to comments on your posts and interacting with followers helps create an environment conducive to greater visibility.

The Importance of Stories It's from Reels

The Instagram algorithm values different types of content, including Stories e Reels. You Stories appear at the top of the feed and can keep your profile active even between regular posts.

The Reels has been gaining more and more prominence, allowing for longer and more engaging videos. Using these features can increase your presence in your followers' feeds and reach new audiences.

Strategic use of hashtags and locations

Hashtags and locations are more than just labels. They play a vital role in Instagram algorithm. So, choose relevant and popular hashtags for your posts, but avoid overdoing it.

Locations also have an impact, especially for local businesses. By adding a location, your post can be discovered by people interested in that geographic area.

Posting frequency

The frequency of postings on Instagram can have a significant impact on engagement, but it’s important to find a balance to avoid both overload and lack of content. Therefore, it’s important to understand how posting frequency can influence engagement:

1. Consistency and visibility

Posting regularly keeps you top of mind with your followers. Your followers know when to expect new content from you and are therefore more likely to engage when you post.

2. Reach and exposure

Every time you post, your post has a chance to appear in your followers’ feeds. The more frequently you post, the more opportunities you have to reach a larger audience.

3. Relevance

Publishing frequently allows you to cover a variety of topics and keep your content fresh and relevant to different segments of your audience.

4. Saturation and Disinterest

However, over-posting can clutter your followers’ feeds and lead to a decrease in interest in your content. Excessive posting can be seen as spam, which can lead to a decrease in engagement.

Additionally, if you post too much and your followers engage less, the algorithm will understand that your content is not relevant to those followers.

5. Quality vs. amount

As we mentioned above, it’s crucial to maintain a balance between posting frequency and quality. Posting too frequently can lead to lower-quality content, which can negatively impact engagement.

Therefore, pay attention to your posts and frequently check which types of posts your audience has engaged with the most.

6. Analysis and Adjustments

The ideal posting frequency may vary depending on your audience and niche. Monitoring engagement metrics like likes, comments, and shares can help you determine the posting rhythm that works best for you.

7. Storytelling and continued interest

Using Instagram Stories to keep things interesting between your main posts can be an effective way to engage your followers even when you’re not posting to your feed as often.

In short…

Unravel the secrets of Instagram algorithm is an ongoing task, as the platform continues to evolve. However, mastering the pillars of interest, topicality and relationship, as well as valuing authentic engagement, exploring different types of content and getting the frequency and quality of posts right, can help improve your visibility and reach.

By understanding and applying smart strategies, you’ll be in an advantageous position to make the most of the algorithm and reach your desired audience on Instagram.

Image: Freepik