Let’s start this year with a very important topic – the Instagram algorithm. It seems a strange veil of mystery exists around this topic, everyone thinks they know how it works, but in reality, just a few understand the way to create a successful strategy for growing IG profiles. In 2022., the Instagram algorithm brings some novelties, but above all, we should think about the most significant facts regarding the functionality of this network (or learn them if we didn’t know anything about them before), the ones their creators shared with the world. Let’s learn something new and break the misconceptions.
What is the Instagram algorithm and how does it work?
The Instagram algorithm, or in other words algorithms, define the content to be presented to Instagram users. So, this set of rules has been created so it controls the organic reach of your posts. Each time the users get on this network, these algorithms get activated, there are 4 of them, and they simultaneously show the content on the feed, explore page, there is also an IGTV videos algorithm, and finally one for Instagram reels.
If you want to find out the parameters for ranking your posts on your feed, then you should read one of our oldest blog posts and learn what to do so everyone can see your posts. You can find out the way Instagram ranks posts.
A while ago (before 2016.) Instagram had different rules, and presented the content in a chronological way, i.e., by order of posting. After that year, a big revolution and change of rules happened. Now, all users get real attention and the content gets personalized. It means the algorithm takes care of the content we prefer and it shows.
4 important factors for posts rating
The following factors are important to estimate the relevance of the content displayed on the feed:
- Information about posts – what type is it (is it a photo or a video; is it IGTV video or reel), besides all the above-mentioned, the algorithm values the topic of the video, and its popularity.
- Information about the profile that published the post – algorithm estimates how often a profile posts the content, but also if you found the content from that profile interesting before, and if you are a close friend with someone or a loyal follower of someone’s profile,
- The activity of your profile – how much time you spend on Instagram, watching the photos, or video content, which of these you prefer,
- Usual behavior when it comes to interactions – how often do you like other posts, how often do you comment, share the content – whether in public or in DMs.
When the algorithm takes all these parameters into consideration, it arrives at the unique “parameter of liking” which is called – score of interest. Based on this parameter, Instagram ranks the posts and decides who to present them to. The more factors overlap with interests of individual profiles and concrete posts, the higher is the possibility that Instagram will display that specific type of posts to the user.
Based on 5 types of interactions algorithm decides who to display the post to
Besides the previously described factors, the algorithm takes into consideration when deciding about showing posts to its users, interactions of that users are also important. In other words, based on previous experience and information the algorithm collects from profiles, these are the conclusions related to interactions important for ranking:
- Time – how much time the user spends on checking the post before continues scrolling the feed,
- Like – what is the probability the user will like a certain post,
- Comment – what is the probability the user will comment on a certain post,
- Saving a post – what is the probability the user will save the post in a specific folder,
- Coming back to certain profiles – what is the probability the user will get back to the profile of an individual or a brand.
Mind-blowing fact – posting time is important but not crucial
Instagram claims this is very important information, probably because they recognized an army of Instagram gurus who told a completely different story to Instagram users and Social Media Managers. Namely, information about the posting time is one of the essential points that has been dragging through Instagram courses, and blogs for quite a long time. By publishing the fact this information is in fact a misconception, Instagram has finally stopped it.
Now, let’s loop in the information we are already familiar with – previously we explained the posts on feeds don’t show up based on chronological criteria, but based on the relevance of the post, as seen by the algorithm of this network. It clearly says to us the posting time cannot be so important, as our post will be estimated and ranked based on other parameters.
On the other hand, the fact is that someone who is not our loyal follower will have fewer chances to see our post as time goes by. Additional tip – if you add some of your followers to the list of close friends – the chances they will see your content will significantly increase.
Each comment counts as an individual interaction
Another misconception, popular within IG gurus, is the one where they claim the comments shorter than three words don’t count. Instagram confirmed this is not the truth, and additionally explained all comments are taken into consideration, even if they consist of one emoji.
It means if you constantly comment on someone’s posts, the chances they will get to the top of your feed by time are pretty high because you show interest in that specific profile and its posts.
When it comes to business profiles, comments matter too, so it is of crucial importance for growth to respond to those comments on a regular basis. This way, you not only keep a constant relationship with brand followers but the number of interactions on posts and profiles increases, which is something Instagram likes to see, and reward by additional relevance of the profile and displaying its posts to more followers.
4 Tips for Using the Instagram Algorithm to Your Advantage
If you can’t beat it, use it to your advantage. Develop a content strategy that gives the Instagram algorithm exactly what it wants. One way to achieve this is by consistently creating high-quality posts that can withstand future algorithm changes.
When you notice a drop in your Instagram engagement, it might not always be due to the algorithm. However, these tips will help you prepare for future algorithm changes with exceptional content and a deeper understanding of how the platform works.
Tip 1: Post Consistently – Focus on Video Content
The Instagram algorithm won’t show too many posts from one account in a row but will consider how often people have interacted with the account in recent weeks. Consistency is key. Start by posting 1-2 times a day and see if you need to post more or less frequently.
Experiment with different types of content: carousels encourage longer retention and interaction, Reels increase audience reach, and static photos are becoming a priority again. Stories allow you to stay at the top of the feed throughout the day without overposting.
Photos are making a comeback, but don’t neglect video – 66% of consumers find short videos the most engaging type of content. Repost Instagram Reels to your story to gather more views, as story views count towards the total Reel views.
Tip 2: Create Engaging Captions with Keywords and Hashtags
To rank better with the algorithm, use keywords and hashtags in your captions, alt text, and bio. Keywords are now searchable on Instagram, making it easier for new followers to find your content.
Here’s how to do it:
- Include relevant keywords in your post captions to make them more appealing and searchable.
- Add keywords to the alt text for better visibility in the Explore section.
- Use searchable hashtags.
- Optimize your bio with keywords so people can find you more easily when searching by industry or topic.
- Creating SEO-friendly content increases the chances that your post will be discovered by your target audience.
Tip 3: Encourage Conversation and Engagement
Engagement is crucial on Instagram, from likes to comments. Encourage conversations and engagement in creative ways:
- Ask your audience questions to prompt them to comment.
- Post trivia and encourage participation.
- Use calls-to-action to tag friends to expand your reach.
- Utilize stickers in your story for interaction.
Engaging your audience helps the algorithm rank your content better, so use various strategies to foster interaction.
Tip 4: Focus on Your Audience
To truly leverage the Instagram algorithm to your advantage, it’s essential to create content that will inspire your audience to engage.
Here’s how to achieve this:
- Listen to your audience: Your followers already give you signals about the topics, types of content, and posts they like the most. Analyze data to discover what your audience loves and wants to see more of. Instagram analytics provide basic insights.
- Design content with your audience in mind: Your content should match the interests and needs of your audience. Create content that will inspire, entertain, or educate them. Connect with your audience on an emotional level to build stronger bonds and encourage long-term engagement.
- Test and adjust: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of content and approaches. Monitor the performance of each post and adjust your strategy based on the results. Flexibility and adaptability are key to success on Instagram.
Creating content that inspires your audience to engage will not only improve your presence on Instagram but will also help the algorithm better recognize your value and recommend your content to other users.
Titan Design knows all the secrets of the Instagram algorithm
These are just some of the most important facts you should know about the IG algorithm. Certainly, there is much more to know and follow in order to run a successful, interesting, and creative Instagram profile. Our team knows all the secrets of the Instagram algorithm because we have years of experience working with clients from a wide palette of niches.
To conclude, for organic success on Instagram, the quality, diversity, and continuity of posting are important, while the posting time is less significant. Also, building a relationship with followers and constant communication additionally help the algorithm to pay attention to any IG profile.
If you want your profile to break all the limits and grow to a few thousand followers, a well-shaped strategic paid ads campaign could help reach top-notch results. Our team could help you, so if you have any questions about the growth of your business on social media, feel free to contact us.
