I’m trying to get my small business noticed on Instagram and it’s been tough to increase engagement. Years ago, I had an account that used to get around 150-300 likes with a small number of followers. It wasn’t anything amazing, but it worked.
Now, I barely get a like on a post, and even then, it’s just from close friends. Even though I’m using hashtags, the analytics show maybe 20 views from people who don’t follow me. Is it even worth using hashtags now?
(I know my posts can be better and I’m working on that, but it’s a bit disheartening when the business is doing fine outside Instagram, but struggling on the platform.)
Pretty much. Regular photos aren’t great for growth, reels work a lot better. Some folks still get good reach with photos, but it takes way more time and effort. Reels are just way more effective.
By the way, carousels can show up on the reels tab too, so try those out. They’re still tougher to get traction with, but it’s better than plain photos.
For hashtags, Instagram says to use 3-5. But focus more on using keywords. Keywords are basically what people would type to find your post, like “cute coffee shop in Seattle.” The fewer people competing for those keywords, the easier it is for your post to show up in searches.
@Mica
Honestly, I’m so over it. I’m just going to do what’s easier for me and stop stressing over it. I’ll stick to stills and carousels, and boost them with like a dollar per post. I’m gaining followers slowly, and my reels don’t get much reach either, so I’m done putting in so much effort.
I can also schedule posts, which makes it way easier. Reels don’t feel natural to me, like I’m just pushing my products too much. I’ll still do reels sometimes if I have a good idea, but yeah, wish me luck!
I’ve noticed people aren’t engaging as much over the last couple of years. Accounts that used to get tons of comments now barely get any.
You seem like you’re doing all you can. One suggestion is to reply to every comment and like them too. I had a video that was doing poorly, but when I started responding to comments, it got a bit more traction. (Even if it’s hate comments—it’s all engagement!) Good luck!
Instagram changed its algorithm. It was copying TikTok and showing content to non-followers. People didn’t like it, so now it shows your stuff mostly to followers, making it tougher to reach new people. (I’m a business owner too, so yeah, super fun for us…)
Someone already mentioned this, but reels are your best bet for growth. Hashtags still work, but keep it to 5-8. Focus on keywords, have a catchy opening, and if something performs well, reuse it. Tag a location and try threads too.
@Nova
Totally feel you! I can’t stand that IG shows my reels mainly to followers when I’m trying to reach new people. I’ve tried copying what my competitors do, but with my own spin on it, and I’m like, what else do I need to do to get people engaging? I started posting on TikTok too, and honestly, TikTok’s algorithm is so much better at this point.
I work as a copywriter for a business coach who helps companies grow and sell on social media through videos. Here’s a few things to keep in mind:
Hashtags don’t really increase reach anymore but can help with categorizing your content so it gets shown to the right audience.
I saw some comments about the algorithm, but it’s not just the algorithm’s fault—it’s more about people’s behavior.
Too much content: Tons of people have become content creators, so there’s a lot more competition. That makes it harder to get noticed without top-quality posts and a bit of money on ads.
People want value: People aren’t following just because they like a couple of photos. They want value. If your content doesn’t offer value, they’ll scroll right past it.
Mix it up: To get attention, your content needs to educate, entertain, or both. Most folks don’t get on social media to get sold stuff. They’re there to relax and have a good time.
