For those of you who do not know what the Instagram Algorithm is and how it works, basically, Instagram has created a live, constantly updating algorithm that adjusts based on a users likes. What are they liking or spending more time viewing? What are they searching for? It builds a unique set of content specifically designed for each user to keep them engaged and using the app, so people do not leave.
So how do we keep up with this constantly changing algorithm…Anybody reading this has probably already scoured the internet for any and every article or blog they could find about “Beating the Instagram Algorithm“. What you have probably found is…they all say the same things. Post more on stories, post at the “peak” time, use Instagram Live, etc.All of those articles, like Sprout Socials – How to Survive and Outsmart the Instagram Algorithm definitely give some great advice, but where did they come up with this information? Instagram RARELY gives anybody a heads up when the algorithm is about to change and why would they? They are in the business of making money and keeping people intrigued. If they just gave you the answer to beating their own algorithm, everyone would be getting 20%+ engagement on all posts and stories.I am sure, if you are an influencer, and are immersed in the industry everyday, you have seen the people who seem to be quote on quote beating the algorithm, or at least finding a way to keep their engagement up. I think what we are constantly forgetting to ask ourselves (ourselves being the influencer industry as a whole), what drives my current followers and new followers to one, follow me, but two, engage with me?
What I have seen is that influencers start off strong, grow their following, engage high, and then after a decent amount of time goes by, those growth and engagement numbers start to dwindle. A lot of people blame the algorithm and Instagram for that, but what I think we need to start doing is looking in the mirror and asking ourselves, “Am I still giving value to my audience?”.The journey of an influencer should be less about beating the algorithm, and more about “what can I offer my community?”. If you have realized that the style of content you were posting a year ago is maybe getting a bit stale for people, then maybe you should think on new ways or a new strategy on how to deliver that content. It’s not that the quality has dropped, but rather it is just the same thing over and over and since the industry has grown so much in the last three years, everyone and their mom are trying to be the next big thing in the influencer world.Let’s stop trying to beat the algorithm and start adapting and growing with it. As humans we are constantly learning and growing, correct? So why should not every aspect of our lives, including the brand, content, and value we offer be growing and adapting as well?
I agree with the articles, that Instagram potentially favours people who abuse their features, but if you have tried it all and it still is not working, maybe it is time to switch things up.
Try figuring out exactly what your current and new followers are looking for in terms of value add, and give it to them. They started following you for a reason, so keep giving them reasons to stay and engage with you.Be down to earth, be genuine, be you. In the end if you just communicate with your community, engage with them like they are your best friends and family, and use your passion for travel, beauty, fashion, fitness, etc. to inspire them, that is where the true power of being an influencer comes from. That is where the true growth and engagement will lie.
If you can do that, you won’t beat the algorithm, but you will for sure grow and adapt with it, and you and your community will be better off because of it.
Comment below what sort of experiences you have had with the Instagram Algorithm and let me know if you have found new ways to adapt!
Check out our next blog about TikTok. The benefits to using a new platform…
