How to Make Hashtags Work on Instagram

May 15, 2024

How to Make Hashtags Work on Instagram

Why Hashtags Aren't Working

  • Common misconceptions: Hashtags aren't dead; misused or misunderstood by users.
  • Expectations and old practices (pre-2016) vs. current use.

Evolution of Hashtags

  • 2016: Hashtags were primary for finding similar content.
  • Current: Users type phrases/keywords/questions instead of hashtags.
  • Adam Mosseri (Head of Instagram) remarks: Hashtags help categorize content but aren't key for more views.

Why Use Hashtags?

  • Helps categorize content for the algorithm.
  • Assists in reaching the right audience but is not the sole factor in growing a profile.

Four Steps to Improve Hashtag Strategy

1. Establish a Strategy

  • DIY Method: Write down:
    • Industry
    • Target Audience
    • Pain Points
    • Solutions to Pain Points
    • 3-5 Topics (Content Pillars)
    • Main Goal
    • Services (optional)
  • Automated Method: Use a tool like SLO
    • Create an account, enter personal and business details, connect Instagram account.

2. Come Up with Targeted Content Ideas

  • DIY Method:
    • Use keywords that target audience may use.
    • Turn these keywords into content ideas.
  • Example Ideas:
    • 3 things that help me feel safe as a solo female traveler.
    • How to save $5,000 when traveling alone.
    • What you need to know when traveling alone for the first time.
  • Automated Method:
    • SLO generates content ideas based on the target audience, industry, etc.

3. Create Content with Intention

  • Sprinkle keywords throughout content:
    • Name Plate (Bold part of Instagram Bio)
    • Bio
    • Caption
    • Reel Audio
    • Pop-up text
    • Carousel Graphics
  • Automated Method using SLO
    • Generate and refine captions that incorporate keywords.

4. Optimize Hashtags to Complement Posts

  • Pick hashtags based on:
    1. Visual elements (e.g., #PalmSprings, #PalmTrees)
    2. Topic (e.g., #InstagramGrowth, #InstagramStrategy)
    3. Profile (e.g., #InstagramCoach, #contentCreator)
  • Avoid reusing the same hashtags for different posts.
  • Automated Method: SLO generates appropriate hashtags based on caption and profile.

Number One Reason Hashtag Strategies Fail

  • Poor content quality: Good hashtags can't fix bad content.
  • Evaluate why a post fails beyond just hashtags (e.g., content, engagement).

Additional Insights

  • Customize hashtags for each post.
  • Automated tools can streamline the hashtag selection and content creation process.

Conclusion

  • Re-assess content quality before focusing on hashtags.
  • Use strategy and tools effectively to improve Instagram engagement.
  • Watch further resources for more advanced hashtag strategies.

Call to Action

  • Watch video: Instagram hashtags breakdown.
  • Comment with the secret emoji.
  • Follow for more content creation strategies.