Instagram is Changing…Again
As digital marketing specialists, it’s our job to stay on top of all the latest trends in the world of social media. Especially algorithm changes, and Instagram is no stranger to making updates. The most recent Instagram Algorithm change has left many puzzled and almost frustrated, and we don’t blame them. But don’t lose hope! We’ve put together some tips to help you navigate this most recent change. Keep reading to learn how you can beat Instagram’s algorithm and continue to grow your following.
How to Beat Instagram’s Algorithm
Engage in a More Natural Way
After this most recent update, we no longer suggest using bulk actions to add to or remove from the following. Techniques like bulk unfollowing actions, like spamming and comment spamming that were once allowed can now cause action flags, which can put a temporary suspension on the use of your account. The solution: focus unfollowing actions in the feed.
If you’re trying to grow your following organically, you’re going to scroll through your feed. You’ll unfollow people from there if they don’t quite match up with the audience you’re trying to capture. You’ll watch some stories and respond to them. You’ll double tap and comment on things that lineup with your audience and grow your following in a way that Instagram won’t punish you for. And the best part is that you’re going to create a much more engaged following, which is what you want.
Build Community
As you start to engage in a more meaningful way, you’re going to start seeing that your following is more engaged. This is because Instagram’s algorithm is prioritizing these accounts based on your interactions. As you touch more accounts, Instagram is going to start showing your content more. This allows you to start growing a community of engaged followers. Accounts that are interested in what you post and that could potentially turn into customers.
We also encourage a continual effort towards creating conversation – whether in your comments or your DMs. And don’t forget that a timely response is an added boost. This shows that you are active and regularly engaging with your following which both Instagram and your new found community will love.
Boost Your Most Important Posts
Instagram is moving towards giving more priority to accounts that are paying to reach their audience. We believe in organic growth, so you won’t see us recommending that our clients run ads all the time. But we do think that targeted ads are useful to utilize in small doses.
If you’re having an event or launching a new product, it wouldn’t hurt to play into Instagram’s algorithm and use targeted marketing efforts to reach your audience. But don’t get hooked on the numbers. Remember in the long run your organic strategy can still accomplish your social media marketing goals.
Work with a Social Media Expert
Navigating the world of social media marketing takes both passion and proven results. If you’re a small business owner in search of someone to give your social media and digital presence a boost, we can help. With our experience and your vision, we can come up with a plan to help your business grow. Contact us today for a free consultation with our social media experts.