by Google
Do you want Instagram to work in your favor, whether as an influencer or as a viewer? Understand how the Instagram algorithm works and take control of your content!
The Instagram algorithm is a complex system that combines different algorithms and adapts content based on what you, as a user, like to see. In the past, Instagram used a simple algorithm that displayed posts chronologically, but in 2024 it is already a sophisticated system and now decides which content to display based on user preferences.
Each part of the application has its own way of displaying content to best suit your interactions as a user, ensuring a personalized experience for everyone. We bring you 7 factors that influence the Instagram algorithm:
1. User interests: Instagram tracks what content you like and comment on, and based on that, it shows you similar content in your main feed. The more interactions you have with certain types of content, the more likely you are to see other posts of a similar nature.
2. Time relevance: Instagram tracks the time relevance of posts. New posts tend to appear higher in the feed because Instagram prefers fresh content.
3. Engagement: The algorithm takes into account the level of engagement with your posts. The more reactions (likes, comments, shares) you get on your posts, the higher you will be displayed in your followers' feeds.
4. Content relevance: Instagram tries to show users content that is relevant to them. This means that the algorithm takes into account your preferences, interests, and previous interactions. For example, if you frequently interact with travel posts, the algorithm will show you more travel-related content.
5. Behavioral pattern tracking: This point is similar to the previous one, and so the algorithm tracks how users browse and interact with content. Based on this data, Instagram determines what content to show to each user in a personalized way.
6. Content quality: High-quality content tends to get more interactions and is more likely to appear in the feed. That's why Instagram prioritizes quality content, such as attractive photos and videos that will catch your attention.
7. Hashtags and location: Using appropriate hashtags and indicating the location where you took the photo or video can help your posts gain more organic visibility. This data helps the algorithm figure out what the content is about and who it might be relevant to.
And what's the difference between the algorithm in your main feed and the Instagram Explore Page?
In the main feed, you'll see posts mainly from users you follow, with some ads thrown in between. Posts from your friends and family are ranked mainly by your previous interactions. This means that at the top of your feed you will see posts that the algorithm thinks you might like.
The main goal of the Explore Page is to show you things that you are most likely to like, but come from accounts that you don't follow. The Reels video algorithm, whose main goal is to entertain you, works on a similar principle.
Understanding how the algorithm works is important not only for influencers, but also for regular users. Influencers can use the algorithm to increase their reach and tailor content to their followers, and the regular user will understand why they are seeing the content. And if you're just starting out on your social media, check out this article ⬇️.
What are our tips for doing it?
Reels, Reels, and Reels: Instagram favors Reels videos, especially those that use trending sounds. Make sure your Reels are light, fun, and short, and most importantly, post them regularly to keep your audience engaged.
Getting the timing right: As we mentioned, engagement is key when working with the algorithm. Find out in your analytics when your followers are most engaged with your content and schedule your posts for those days and times. If you post at times when your followers are least active, no one will see your content.
Help yourself with Stories: You can also easily get interactions in your Instagram Stories. Add various polls, polls, quizzes or questions that your followers can interact with. And if you also add trendy music to your Story, you've won!
Comments vs. Likes: Likes are good, but comments are even better. In order for the algorithm to push your post forward, it is important that your followers comment on your post. Write engaging descriptions, preferably ones that call your followers to action, ask them something. You can read how to write engaging captions here, and we'll keep our fingers crossed for your growth on Instagram!
