Congratulations, you’ve created the perfect Instagram post! But what good is it if nobody sees it? With the all-mighty and ever-changing Instagram algorithm, it’s important to understand what it deems important to get your content seen by a wide audience.

In this guide, we’ll cover the ins and outs of the algorithm’s ranking signals, and recent changes, and provide tips to help you optimize your content and boost your visibility on the platform.

How Does the Instagram Algorithm Work?

The Instagram algorithm is a set of rules that rank content on the platform. It decides what content shows up, and in what order, on all Instagram users’ feeds, the Explore Page, the Reels feed, hashtag pages, etc. It takes metadata (including captions and alt text applied to images), hashtags, and engagement metrics into account. Based on this information, it distributes content in a way designed to ensure that users have easy access to what they are most interested in seeing.

The 3 most important ranking factors of the 2023 Instagram algorithm are:

1. Relationship between the author of the content and the viewer.
2. Interest.
3. Relevancy.

Secondary Instagram algorithm ranking factors include the frequency of using the platform, how many users a person follows, and session time.

Tips to Boost Your Content Visibility:

1. Build relationships: Actively engage with your followers by responding to DMs and comments. This will increase the likelihood that your content will show up in their feeds.
2. Post content that your audience is interested in: Keep your audience in mind when creating content. The Instagram algorithm recognizes when a user interacts with a specific content type or format and serves them more of the same.
3. Optimize your captions and hashtags: Use relevant hashtags and captions that are easy to understand and engage with. Avoid using spammy or irrelevant hashtags.
4. Share relevant and timely content: The Instagram algorithm considers the timeliness factor, so it’s important to post content that is relevant to current events or trends.
5. Utilize Instagram Stories: Instagram Stories are a great way to engage with your audience and keep them returning for more. Use features such as polls, questions, and quizzes to encourage engagement.
6. Use video content: Video content tends to perform well on Instagram. Experiment with different formats such as Reels or IGTV to see what works best for your audience.
7. Monitor your insights: Pay attention to your insights to see what content is performing well and adjust your strategy accordingly.

How to Use the Tips Provided:

1. Identify your target audience: Who are you trying to reach? What are their interests and behaviors on the platform?
2. Plan your content: Use the tips provided to create a content plan tailored to your audience.
3. Monitor your performance: Use Instagram Insights to monitor your performance and adjust your strategy accordingly.

In conclusion, understanding the Instagram algorithm is critical to a successful social media marketing strategy. Following the tips and monitoring your performance can optimize your content and increase your visibility on the platform.