Are you intrigued by the content that appears on your Instagram feed? Instagram’s algorithm is designed to ensure that you see posts that align with your unique preferences. This algorithm is based on five distinct elements tailored to each user. Curious about how it functions? This article delves into the workings of Instagram’s algorithm and the six key factors it employs to curate your content experience.
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WebFX is here to assist you in enhancing your business’s Instagram presence and extending your reach beyond the platform!
In 2020, Instagram faced criticism regarding the content it delivered to users. Some users found the content to be outdated, prompting Instagram to roll out an algorithm update. What exactly is at play with Instagram’s algorithm?
The algorithm determines the ranking and order of content based on five fundamental pillars:
Interest
Relationship
Timeliness
Frequency
Following
Continue reading to uncover the intricacies of the Instagram algorithm.
Algorithms evolve over time, with platforms like Google updating theirs multiple times annually. However, how does Instagram decide what content to present to its users?
Instagram algorithm pillar one: Interest
Instagram’s content delivery is predominantly driven by user interest, which is influenced by the types of content and accounts you traditionally engage with.
Understanding “interaction” is crucial before we can delve into the interest pillar of the Instagram algorithm. Let’s define what constitutes post interactions:
Posts you’ve liked
Posts you’ve commented on
Posts you’ve shared
Posts you’ve been tagged in
People you’ve been tagged by
People you’ve been tagged with
These interactions reflect your interest in accounts, users, and topics, and the Instagram algorithm considers them when selecting content for you.
For marketers:
Marketing on Instagram can be enhanced by utilizing this algorithm element. Here are some strategies:
Develop engaging posts that encourage likes, comments, and shares
Encourage users to tag friends in comments
Post frequently to increase interaction opportunities
Instagram algorithm pillar two: Relationship
When you follow accounts on Instagram, they generally fall into two categories: those you enjoy and those you don’t as much. For instance, accounts you enjoy might include close friends, influential Instagram personalities, or groups you’re part of. Accounts you don’t enjoy as much might include past interests or brands.
This information might seem trivial, but it’s crucial for Instagram to understand your preferences. The algorithm examines your interactions to determine your closest relationships and, subsequently, the content you’re most likely to engage with.
For marketers:
Bonding with customers on Instagram can be challenging but achievable. Here are some tips:
Encourage direct messages for questions or issues
Create posts that foster interaction
Instagram algorithm pillar three: Timeliness
Instagram places significant emphasis on timeliness, having addressed user complaints about outdated content. This update ensures that you see fresh posts, minimizing the likelihood of encountering posts from weeks or even days ago.
Instagram aims to provide the most current content in your feed, ensuring you don’t miss out on opportunities to engage with timely content.
For marketers:
Here are some tips for marketers to ensure their content is timely:
Identify when your audience is most active on Instagram and post accordingly, considering time zones
Post frequently to keep followers engaged
Instagram algorithm pillar four: Frequency
Your usage frequency on Instagram impacts the content you see. If you frequently open the app, your posts are more likely to appear in chronological order. Conversely, if you use the app less often, your feed will be a mix of content based on relationship and interest, rather than the most recent posts.
For marketers:
Focus on the pillars you can control rather than the frequency aspect of the algorithm.
Instagram algorithm pillar five: Following
Instagram users who follow a large number of accounts are more likely to see fresh content, while those who follow fewer accounts may encounter repeat content.
For marketers:
Focus on the pillars that can be leveraged to your advantage, as there’s limited control over how many accounts your audience follows.
WebFX is a leading Instagram marketing agency that understands the dynamic algorithm of social media platforms. We can help your company reach a wider audience based on Instagram’s algorithm and assist with Instagram ad setup to elevate your brand. Are you interested in marketing on other social media platforms as well?
We offer top-tier marketing campaigns on:
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For a free quote or to speak with a social media specialist, contact us online or call 888-601-5359.
