When it comes to SEO, we’ve always heard that Google uses an algorithm to rank websites. But for those unfamiliar with the concept, Instagram also uses an algorithm. It’s basically the tech for how Instagram works and the impact it has on people’s experiences on the apps.
What is the Instagram algorithm?
Unlike Google, Instagram doesn’t have a single algorithm that shows what people are doing and what aren’t in the app. Instagram uses a number of algorithms and procedures, each with a specific purpose. Instagram believes in personalizing the experience with technology for better results.
When Instagram first launched in 2010, it was showing individual photo streams, but as more and more people joined, it became difficult for users to see everything. This was when Instagram introduced feeds in 2016 that ranked posts based on a user’s interests over most. The Reels, Feeds, and Explore sections of the app each have their own algorithm that is geared towards how users use it.
This is how the Instagram algorithm works
Instagram’s algorithm determines what content is seen. So every time a user starts the app, the algorithm immediately scans all available content, analyzes it and decides which posts are displayed at the top of the news feed and in what order, which posts are on the Explore tab and in which Order the stories, reels and live videos appear in the feeds and in their respective tabs.
The Instagram algorithm is a set of rules that regulates the organic reach of a user’s content. Despite widespread criticism, Instagram claims that before implementing this algorithm in 2016, people missed 70% of their own posts and 50% of their friends’ posts. However, the question that remains is how the algorithm determines which and whether certain content is worth displaying to a user at any given time.
The algorithm examines the previous behavior of the user and searches all available posts, evaluates each one and predicts which one will be of interest to the user. So the most interesting post is at the top.
You are a smart cookie! It works like a magic wand, but the algorithm actually takes into account a large number of individual data points, so-called ranking signals. There are many of these signals, but few are considered the most important and help determine which posts, roles, or videos are of interest to a user.
Ranking signals of the Instagram algorithm
The ranking signals of the Instagram algorithm are divided into three broad categories.
1. Relationship
The algorithm assumes that people who have previously interacted with your account are interested in your new content in terms of the relationship. So if it decides to show one of your followers a post, it will take into account your relationship with the other user, e.g. saved your post.
In the case of a branded account, the algorithm takes into account the loyalty and commitment of the audience to the brand’s content. This interaction with your followers will undoubtedly increase your organic reach.
2. Schedules
In this case, the algorithm assumes that the most recent posts are the most important. However, Instagram states that all posts will appear in a user’s feed at some point, even though newer posts appear higher in the news feed than older ones.
One of the easiest ways for brands to increase their Instagram reach is to post when their target audience is online.
3. Interest
The main job of an algorithm is to provide users with what they want or a combination of what they want and some preferred content. It connects with the user by tracking and understanding what is on a particular photo or video, and so it shows news enthusiasts relevant posts or news and pet enthusiasts cute pet videos.
4. Organic portion
For brands, content has to be very appealing to the target audience for the algorithm to show them. There is no shortcut to defining your niche other than developing a consistent voice or telling a story that people will be interested in.
Apart from the three above, there are other ranking signals that influence organic reach that have more to do with the target audience.
Frequency of use – This is where the users / audience who open their feeds frequently can see your post as opposed to those who rarely open them and rely on the algorithm to choose what they see.
episode – It is similar to the frequency signal that people who follow a large number of accounts miss more posts than those who follow a few carefully chosen accounts.
Session time – This refers to the amount of time a follower spends who is more likely to see all of the posts.
Tips for working with the Instagram algorithm in 2021
1. Carousel Posts
Although the Instagram algorithm doesn’t specify carousel posts, they get a lot of engagement and have a comparatively higher reach. According to Hootsuite, these posts generate three times the engagement and 1.4 times the reach compared to other types of posts.
2. Consistent contributions
Whether you want to increase your reach, engagement, or followers, you need to post regularly. During Instagram’s Creator Week in June 2021, Instagram boss Adam Mosseri revealed that a posting frequency of two feed posts per week and two stories per day is the ideal recipe for gaining a fan base in the app.
3. No dodgy methods
Shady methods should not be used. Whether you buy Instagram followers or use Instagram automation, it won’t work. You cannot manipulate the system. According to Instagram, the algorithm can detect if your account is showing unethical behavior.
4. Myths should be ignored
It’s just a myth about “shadowbanning” because, according to Instagram, if you violate Instagram’s community guidelines or terms of service, your account will be disabled.
5. New features
The algorithm is currently strengthening the reels in the feeds so that more users become aware of this feature and use it. Instagram hasn’t officially confirmed this, but it seems like an intriguing feature. Have you ever tried it If so, please let us know.
6. Better hashtags
While this is a pre-existing feature, machine learning sorts social content in a more complex way, and using the right hashtags in your posts will help you get discovered by people, whether they follow you or not.
7. Post when your audience is online
Since Instagram wants to bring the latest and relevant content to people, the best time to post is to look at your audience behavior, the industry you are in, and when people typically log on to Instagram.
8. Bond with your audience
It goes without saying that when you touch your audience’s emotions, you win their hearts as well as the algorithm. Whatever your KPIs, you will only be successful if you can win and win the hearts and minds of the audience.
9. Automation of analytical reports
Use a good Instagram Analytics tool to get automatic analytics reports to analyze what works best for you in terms of content, post time, and hashtags.
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So if you want to gain more followers, reach, or get your content to the right audience, don’t forget about how the Instagram algorithm works and the tips that could help you win the heart of the algorithm.
Learn how to engage your audience and create engaging content for your social media channels with our digital marketing course.
