Cracking the code: How do Instagram hashtags actually work?
Hashtags on Instagram are more than just a trendy add-on to your captions. They're the secret sauce that helps people discover your content. But with so many options, how do you use them effectively? Let’s break it down!
How many hashtags do you need?
Posts that use hashtags perform better than those that don’t. However, it’s important that you don’t cram in too many as this can look spammy, and can be detrimental to your visibility. You need to find the sweet spot that keeps your caption clean and focuses on the right audiences.
Picking the perfect bunch.
The key here is, relevance! Don’t just throw in generic hashtags, instead think about your content and target audience.
Here's your cheat sheet:
Popular Hashtags: Tap into trending topics with hashtags that have a decent following (think a few thousand to a hundred thousand posts). For example, #InteriorDesign or #HomeDecor.
Niche Hashtags: Target your specific audience with more focused hashtags related to your niche.
Location Hashtags: Add a local touch with hashtags for your city or region. This is great for attracting nearby followers. For example, #LondonInteriorDesigner or #HomeInHerts
Ride the hashtag wave.
Catch the wave of popular (and relevant!) hashtags to boost your reach. Explore the “search” tab and see what’s trending, but be mindful - if the hashtag strays too far from your content, it’ll start to look inauthentic.
Building your community with branded hashtags.
Create a branded hashtag and promote it in your bio and captions. This makes it easier for brands and consumers to find and reshare your posts. By encouraging your followers and customers to use it in their posts, it’s a great way to discover UGC and build brand loyalty.
By understanding how hashtags work, you can unlock their power to connect with a wider audience, grow your community and make your Instagram presence shine!
Looking to up your social game? Get in touch!