Algorithm Secrets Instagram Doesn't Want You to Know

Summary

In this video, Michelle Bali, a creative strategist from Learn with Shopify, decodes Instagram's algorithm update, emphasizing the pivotal role of Reels for boosting reach and gaining followers. She advises abandoning traditional photos in favor of Reels, which offer higher engagement. Bali also highlights the importance of captions, given most viewers watch without sound, and recommends leveraging Instagram's new content creation features. She stresses the significance of posting frequency, strategic use of hashtags, and the impact of keywords on discoverability. Additionally, she addresses the concept of shadow banning and introduces Instagram's 'Notes' feature, suggesting it as an engagement tool rather than a growth hack. The video concludes with a call to action for viewers to share their own Instagram growth strategies.

Takeaways

• 🔍 Instagram's algorithm promotes content based on various factors to increase user engagement and platform interest.
• 📈 The recent algorithm update by Instagram emphasizes video content, particularly in Reels, to compete with TikTok and boost user reach.
• 🎥 Creators are advised to focus on Reels for better visibility, as they offer significantly more reach compared to traditional photos.
• 📝 Adding captions to Reels is crucial to engage the 85% of viewers who watch videos without sound.
• 🆕 Instagram has introduced new content creation features like Dual, green screen, and split screen to enhance video content without post-production editing.
• 🎉 Starting videos with a hook is essential to retain viewers' attention within the first two seconds of viewing.
• 📅 Posting frequency and timing are critical for gaining immediate engagement; analytics can guide the best times to post.
• 🔍 Instagram is improving its search function, so including relevant keywords in content and profiles can help in discoverability.
• 📊 Hashtags are still relevant but should complement high-quality content; Instagram's algorithm promotes content based on engagement, not just hashtag usage.
• 🛒 For businesses, Instagram offers opportunities like Instagram Shop and shopping on Explore to drive sales and customer engagement.

Q & A

Why did Instagram make an algorithm update?

Instagram made an algorithm update to prioritize video content, especially Reels, to compete with platforms like TikTok and to provide users with the short video content that is currently popular.

What is the significance of Instagram's amalgamation of all video content into Reels?

The amalgamation of all video content into Reels is significant because it makes Reels the key to boosting reach and gaining more followers on Instagram, aligning with the current trend of short-form video content.

Why should users focus on creating Reels instead of traditional photos?

Users should focus on creating Reels because they offer 120% more reach than photos, as per the script, making them more effective for growing an Instagram following.

How important are captions for Reels, and why?

Captions are important for Reels because only 15% of viewers watch videos with the sound on, so captions help engage the remaining 85% of viewers who watch without sound.

What new content creation features did Instagram introduce to enhance video content?

Instagram introduced features like Dual, which allows recording from both the front and back cameras simultaneously, and effects similar to TikTok's green screen and split screen, to make video content more dynamic and engaging without post-production editing.

What is the recommended posting frequency for Instagram Reels to maximize reach?

The recommended posting frequency is one to two times per day, as suggested in the script, to maintain consistency and maximize the chances of content being seen by a wider audience.

How can including keywords in Instagram content help with visibility?

Including keywords in content, captions, and profile information can help improve visibility as Instagram is working to enhance its search function, making it easier for users to find relevant content.

What is the current role of hashtags in Instagram's algorithm?

Hashtags are not dead but have evolved. They are most effective when used with high-quality content that keeps users engaged. Instagram's algorithm may then use these hashtags to further promote the content on hashtag pages and explore pages.

What is the purpose of Instagram's 'notes' feature, and how might it impact user engagement?

The 'notes' feature on Instagram is a status update visible only to close friends or mutual follows, intended as an engagement tool to increase visibility within one's network and potentially foster more personal connections with the audience.

How can businesses leverage Instagram to drive traffic to their online store?

Businesses can use Instagram's shopping features, like Instagram Shop and shopping on Explore, to link products directly from posts, making it easier for customers to discover and purchase items, thus driving traffic to their online stores.

What steps can users take to check if their Instagram account is shadowbanned?

Users can check if their account is shadowbanned by going to their account settings, then 'Account', and finally 'Account Status' to see if there are any strikes against the account, which could hinder growth.