Play the Instagram Algorithm: Tried-and-Tested Strategies

Unlocking the secrets behind the Instagram algorithm can be a game-changer for content strategists navigating social media

.In the world of Instagram, Adam Mosseri, the platform's frontman, frequently takes center stage to demystify the intricacies of Instagram's algorithms.

The ultimate goal? To create an exceptional user experience while keeping users engaged on Instagram.

In this article, we will explore how you can tailor your content for maximum visibility and engagement.

Decoding the Instagram Feed and Stories Algorithm

Instagram's algorithm weighs various factors to curate users' feeds and Stories. These factors, in order of importance, include:

• User Activity: Interactions such as likes, shares, saves, and comments on posts.
• Post Information: Popularity signals like likes, comments, shares, and saves, along with the timestamp and location.
• Interaction History: Engagement with an account's past posts, like comments or previous interactions.

Instagram employs this information to predict a user's engagement with a post, whether it's through likes, comments, shares, or profile visits. The key takeaway is that encouraging engagement from your existing audience should be a primary focus in content creation.

Crafting Engaging Content with CTAs

Incorporating Calls to Action (CTAs) into your Instagram posts and Stories can significantly boost engagement signals that Instagram's algorithm values.

Consider simple requests like asking for likes, comments, or shares. Alternatively, employ creative CTAs that provide your audience with an incentive to interact.

For example, you could tease upcoming content and promise to share the rest of the story based on likes. Engage your audience with questions, encouraging them to share their thoughts in the comments.

Navigating the Explore and Reels Algorithms

Explore and Reels offer opportunities for users to discover content beyond their immediate network. To understand what content to display, Instagram analyzes:

• User Activity: Posts liked, saved, shared, or commented on.
• Engagement with Poster: The user's interaction history with the account.
• Content Details: Popularity, audio tracks, visuals, and account engagement.

For Reels, Instagram collects feedback from users to fine-tune its predictor algorithm, emphasizing entertainment content. To thrive in these areas, focus on creating engaging 15- to 30-second videos, experiment with Reel effects, and prioritize audio elements.

Monitoring and Improving Content Visibility

Instagram provides insights into content eligibility and recommendations through its professional account status feature.

You can discover why your content may not be surfacing for followers and non-followers.

Moreover, you have the option to appeal decisions made by Instagram, with the promise of increased transparency in the future.

Case Studies: B2B Brands Succeeding on Instagram

Let's look at some brands that are really making it on Insta these days.

QuickBooks: QuickBooks excels at featuring its clients as the heroes of its Instagram content. By showcasing a diverse range of client stories and mixing content formats, QuickBooks expands its reach, attracting likes and shares from the subjects of its content. This approach positions QuickBooks as a brand serving various businesses across different geographic areas.

Boeing: Boeing leverages Instagram's visual appeal by highlighting its iconic products and historic moments. Engaging content, such as the final flight of the 747, garners millions of views and likes. Boeing also delves into behind-the-scenes content, offering a glimpse into the craftsmanship required to create its products.

Deloitte: Deloitte, primarily a B2B company, thrives on Instagram by putting people at the forefront. Focusing on employees, research, and broader topics, Deloitte creates content that resonates with a diverse audience. By mixing content types and formats, Deloitte ensures a wide appeal and boosts its visibility in Explore and Reels.

Conquer the Insta Algo

As Instagram's algorithm evolves, content creators and marketers must adapt their strategies to maximize visibility and engagement. Adam Mosseri's insights provide valuable guidance: prioritize audience engagement, employ creative CTAs, and cater to Explore and Reels. By learning from successful B2B brands and embracing Instagram's dynamic landscape, you can unlock the full potential of the platform and reach both existing followers and new audiences effectively.