If you’re an active social media user, you’ve probably seen more than a few people complaining about the infamous social media algorithms. Why isn’t my content being shown? Why does a less polished video get more reach than another? Why did I get views before, but now I don’t?
The gripes and finger-pointing at the ever-changing, unpredictable nature of algorithms are as common these days as dance challenges on TikTok. But how do you understand them 100%? Sorry, we don’t have all the answers. These algorithms are like a modern-day Holy Grail, an encrypted code that even the creators struggle to decipher. That’s why what we tell you today might change drastically tomorrow.
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However, over the years, we’ve spotted some key clues or patterns that can help you understand and make the algorithms work in your favor. Below, we’ll give you some tips so that instead of fighting with the algorithm, you can make it your ally in your quest to increase your reach and maximize your impact on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, and LinkedIn. Let’s dive in!
What Are Social Media Algorithms?
In today’s digital world, social media algorithms play a crucial role in your content’s visibility and success. Understanding them can differentiate between going unnoticed and becoming a viral sensation. Behind every like, comment, and share, an algorithm works in the shadows.
Algorithms are complex mathematical formulas that decide what content you’ll see in your feed. They’re designed to keep users hooked by showing them relevant and engaging content.
Each platform has its algorithm with different criteria, but the goal is always the same: to offer a personalized experience that keeps users interacting.
How Do Algorithms Work?
While each social network has its method, most algorithms are based on similar factors:
- Engagement: Algorithms prioritize content that people interact with the most (likes, comments, shares, and watch time). If you’re constantly liking travel posts, you’re more likely to see similar content.
- Relevance: Content that seems more relevant to a user’s interests is more likely to appear in their feed.
- Recency: Newer content generally has an advantage, though some platforms prioritize posts that continue to get engagement hours or even days after being published.
- Relationship: Algorithms favor content from accounts you’ve interacted with before.
- Content Type: The type of content (photos, videos, links) can also affect visibility. For example, on Instagram, videos and carousels often get more visibility than static images.
How Algorithms Work on Different Platforms
As mentioned earlier, each social network has its algorithm, designed to prioritize content differently. Here’s how algorithms work on some of the main platforms:
Facebook’s algorithm, known as Edgerank, prioritizes content based on affinity, weight, and time of publication. This means that posts from close friends and family, as well as recent and relevant content, are more likely to appear in your feed.
Instagram uses several algorithms for different app sections, like the feed, Stories, Explore tab, and Reels. These algorithms consider factors like engagement, relevance, and user information to show the most engaging content.
X (formerly Twitter)
X’s algorithm prioritizes tweets based on relevance and user interest. Tweets that generate more interaction and come from accounts the user frequently interacts with are more likely to appear at the top of the feed.
TikTok
TikTok’s algorithm is renowned for its precision in personalizing content. It uses data like user interactions, video details, and device settings to show videos that might interest the user.
LinkedIn’s algorithm prioritizes content based on professional relevance and engagement. Posts that generate more engagement and are relevant to the user’s professional network are more likely to be seen.
Strategies to Work with Algorithms and Increase Your Reach
Now that you have a general idea of how algorithms work, here are some key strategies to make them work in your favor:
1. Post High-Quality Content Consistently
Posting regularly with visually appealing, informative content that adds value to your audience is key. But it’s not just about quantity; consistency is equally important. The algorithm needs to know you’re a reliable source of quality content.
2. Encourage Engagement
Engagement is one of the most important factors for algorithms. Ask questions, create polls, and use calls to action that invite your followers to comment or share your content. The more they interact with your posts, the more visible they’ll be to other users.
3. Experiment With Different Formats
Try different types of content to see what works best for your audience. Videos, carousels, static images, and stories can have different impacts on the algorithm. For example, on Instagram, videos and Reels are getting more visibility, so don’t hesitate to give them a try.
4. Leverage Each Platform’s Features
Each social network offers different features that can help you increase your reach. For example, use Stories and Reels on Instagram, videos on TikTok, and articles on LinkedIn to diversify your content and reach more people.
5. Post at the Right Times
Timing is crucial. Posting when your audience is the most active helps you get more engagement in a short period, indicating to the algorithm that your content is relevant and should be shown to more people. Use the analytics tools on each social network to identify when your audience is online.
6. Use Relevant Keywords and Hashtags
Keywords and hashtags are essential for making your content discoverable. Research the most searched terms within your niche and use them strategically in your posts. Hashtags, in particular, can help you reach people outside your immediate follower circle.
7. Collaborate With Other Creators
Collaborations can expose you to new audiences. When you partner with other creators or brands, your posts can appear in their followers’ feeds, significantly increasing your reach. Make sure the collaborations are relevant and valuable to your audience.
8. Stay Up to Date With Updates
Social media platforms frequently update their algorithms. What worked yesterday might not be as effective today. Stay informed about changes and adjust your strategy accordingly. Follow blogs, attend webinars, and join communities that discuss these topics to always stay one step ahead.
Conclusion
Working with social media algorithms can seem challenging, but with the right strategies, you can significantly boost your reach and visibility. It’s time to put them into practice. Don’t let algorithm changes slow down your success.
