HOW TO BEAT THE 2021 INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM
Post Summary: How to beat the Instagram algorithm in 2021 and tips I used to get over 130,000 followers! This blog was originally written for dani-the-explorer.com. You can check out my Instagram courses and resources there!
HOW DOES THE INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM WORK IN 2021?
In 2017, I decided to jump into the platform in full force and become a freelance photographer. Instagram would be my primary source of traffic and business. That means that I am 100% keeping tabs on how to beat the Instagram algorithm. Rumor has it that only 10% of your audience can see your posts in their feed- what a rip off! But we can do this! It is still possible to beat the Instagram algorithm.
I’m going to show you my secrets and top tips for growing and beating the Instagram algorithm AKA the ones I used to get over 100k followers.
Disclaimer: This blog contains affiliate links which means I earn a small percentage of every purchase, at no cost to you.
WHAT WE KNOW ABOUT THE 2021 INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM
With the addition of Instagram stories, insights, and more, figuring out how to beat the Instagram algorithm year to year can be time-consuming! And now Instagram is hidding likes. What metrics do we even use to measure out success when trying to beat the 2021 Instagram algorithm?
If you’re looking to work with brands on Instagram (you can read my blog on how to do that here), then, unfortunately, keeping up with the algorithm is a must. So what will the 2021 Instagram algorithm have in store? Let’s find out!
#1: THE INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM KEEPS TABS ON WHAT YOU LIKE
Ever notice that when you like a specific type of post, you seem to see more of them? That’s because the Instagram algorithm factors in how/ what you engage with, and predicts that’s the content you care about. Those actions determine the order of your newsfeed. This Instagram algorithm feature also determines what type of content you will see in the future.
I also want to point out that just because Instagram is hidding likes, that doesn’t mean likes are going away. You can still double-tap a photo which will signal to the 2021 Instagram algorithm that you want to see more content like this in the future.
#2: THE INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM WATCHES ENGAGEMENT WITH YOUR FOLLOWERS
If you comment or are even tagged in someone’s posts often, then there is a higher chance that you will end up in that individual’s “important” category. Some other popular Instagram resources also refer to this as the “friends and family” category. What does that mean? You’re telling the Instagram Algorithm, “Hey, this person is important to me, and I want to see more of them on my feed.” That means engaging with your followers is crucial if you want to grow on Instagram. You must reply to comments and DMs, so your followers see more of your posts!
Also, not replying to comments and DMs can be a huge bummer for your audience! When someone takes the time to engage with you, it’s because they want to – it’s important to them! So please, even if beating the 2021 Instagram algorithm isn’t your primary goal, reply to comments and DMs to have better conversations with your followers. Show them you care.
#3: THE INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM CONSIDERS TIME
Instagram wants to show its followers the latest and greatest, which means time is a factor you must always consider! If you pay attention to when most of your followers are online, they’ll be more likely to see your content! I suggest having an Instagram business account, so you can keep up with analytics that may factor into the Instagram Algorithm. Keeping up with analytics will also help you measure other important metrics for beating the Instagram algorithm.
#4: THE INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM USES FREQUENCY TO SORT POSTS
The more time you spend on the Instagram app, the more likely Instagram is going to show you fresh content. The same goes for your followers! So if you’re a frequent flyer on the app, your newsfeed will be sorted more chronologically. Again, the Instagram algorithm wants you to see the fresh stuff. Instagram users who check the app less often will most likely be shown popular content – like highlights from the day.
I have first hand experience with this. Every time I have ever stayed off the app for an extended period of time, I have been shown a highlight reel of what has happened since I’ve been gone.
TWO FACTORS FOR BEATING THE 2021 INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM
Okay, so when it comes to your newsfeed, it looks like there are four main points the Instagram algorithm takes into consideration. These points can be put into two categories. Let’s talk more about those and what they have to do with the Instagram algorithm.
#1: ENGAGEMENT IS KEY FOR BEATING THE INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM
The Instagram algorithm in 2021 works by showing users the content they are likely to engage with. As previously stated, have you ever noticed that when you like someone’s posts, you tend to see more of them on your feed? If you scroll down your feed long enough, you will see posts from most accounts you follow. Typically, you have to scroll very far and Instagram will eventually stop you from scrolling with a, “You’re all caught up now!” note. I tried this and it took a LONG time to get to the “bottom” of my newsfeed.
It’s not likely that your followers will do that. It’s much too long of a process. That being said, If only 10% of them actually see your posts! So how do we engage enough to beat the Instagram algorithm in 2021?
#2: THE INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM BELIEVES TIME IS EVERYTHING
Instagram is a social platform that makes money from ads. The easiest way for your followers to see company ads is to keep your followers on the app longer. That means that the more time you keep your followers on the app, the more the Instagram algorithm will favor you. MUAHAHA.
HOW THE 2021 INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM WORKS, IN SUM
1. How Does The Instagram Algorithm Work in 2021?
- The Instagram algorithm watches what you like
- The Instagram algorithm looks at how you engage
- The Instagram algorithm keeps tabs on time
- Frequency is used to sort posts
2. Two Factors for Beating The 2021 Instagram Algorithm
1. Consider Engagement
- Engage with your followers
- Create content your followers will enjoy engaging with
2. Consider Timing
- Post when your followers are online
- Post frequently
Okay, so now that we know how the algorithm works and what we need to do to beat the Instagram algorithm, let’s talk about specific tactics you can use daily and beyond in your social media strategy.
BEATING THE INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM ON THE DAILY
Instagram, as an app, is a compilation of many parts, but let’s focus on your newsfeed for a second here. The items listed below should happen every day if you want to beat the 2021 Instagram algorithm! I have used these same techniques to grow my page. I break these things down in the next section.
- Post Posts
- Post Reels
- Reply to your DMs
- Respond to Comments
- Engage with Accounts You Follow
- Color Grade your Feed
- Turn On Post Notifications
INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM TIP #1: POST PHOTOS DAILY
If you want the best chance at growing your account and beating the Instagram algorithm, you need to post to Instagram every day! Consistency gives your followers something to look forward to. Posting a photo to your newsfeed is probably the easiest way to keep your profile fresh.
Taking a new photo is as simple as pulling out your iPhone to capture a moment! At the end of this blog, I have included a list of the photography gear I use to create the best imagery, so be sure to check that out.
Heck, you don’t even need to post new photos. You can certainly beat the Instagram algorithm by reposting older images. I’ll get into how to do this later.
For followers always checking the app, this is a great way to establish a connection with them. Followers who enjoy your content and know when it’s coming up will engage more, and you, my friend, will beat the Instagram algorithm. If posting daily is too much for you, find a posting schedule that works and stick to it! Be consistent!
Can’t post a photo daily? Figure out a schedule that works for you. I recommend at least posting a photo 3 days a week!
INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM TIP #2: POST REELS
How do Reels keep users engaged? Videos in general are great for storytelling, and get more in-depth with the moment(s) you are trying to showcase to your audience. Selfie videos, for example, let your users feel a closer connection to you, making them want to see more. I recommend posting Reels at least 3 times a week!
I know video can be a daunting task, but you don’t have to do any crazy edits to post a video! Some of my top-performing video posts have been a simple panning iPhone video I took of the mountain-scape I was admiring at the moment. If you don’t want to post videos on your feed, post them to your stories.
In the last year, I’ve noticed a MAJOR bump in my engagement from posting videos. With the creation of Instagram Reels, posting video is easier than ever! Reels seem to get shared across more curator pages and are Instagram’s primary concern going into 2021. When they’re shared, you’re more likely to get an influx of followers. Not to mention, the Instagram algorithm loves to reward users who use their latest features.
Speaking of featured, if your Reel gets enough traction, it can be hand-picked to be “featured” on Instagram, which means it’ll get pushed to upwards of millions of Instagram users.
Not sure how to use Reels to beat the Instagram algorithm? Lucky you I have this 5-day Reels challenge! Designed to get you 100 new followers in a week using Reels.
INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM TIP #3: REPLY TO DMS
When someone takes the time to send you a message, it’s usually for a good reason. Because the Instagram algorithm aims to show off the most engaging pages/ content, you should be looking for the best ways to interact with your audience! Show them you care. Reply to those DMs, people.
And did you know that you can now reply to your DMs on your desktop? Facebook’s new unified Pages inbox makes it so you can view your “Messanger” and “Instagram Direct” inboxes in one place! You can read more about that here.
Again, you want the Instagram algorithm to place you in your followers’ all special “friends and family” category. Replying to DMs is a great way to establish trust with followers and beat the algorithm. It’s also just important. You should want to establish meaningful connections with your followers.
*You can also reply to your friends faster with the new Threads app
Better yet, send a voice memo! I can’t tell you how awesome it is to see my followers get excited when I reply to their messages with a voice memo. It allows us to have a greater connection through the screen, and that’s what people want more of on Instagram going into 2021.
INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM TIP #4: REPLY TO COMMENTS
See above. If we want to beat the Instagram algorithm, we need to engage! Your followers want to interact with you. Remember how I mentioned that by interacting with your followers, you would put them in your “family and friends” category? You need to treat your followers like people and make sure you take the time to reply to them!
You can also look at your followers’ profiles and leave a thoughtful comment on their images! I love doing this trick because I have found accounts to follow that I didn’t know existed before – tricky Instagram algorithm! AND once Instagram saw me engaging with more of these specific accounts, I began to see more variety in my Explore Page. Engaging is key to beating the Instagram algorithm in 2021!
INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM TIP #5: COLOR GRADE YOUR FEED
I do think a color graded feed helps with engagement. You want your followers to recognize your work and love it! New followers want to go onto your feed, like multiple images, and scroll forever.
Having an overall “look” to your feed will keep Instagram users interested in your content and the Instagram algorithm on your side! I like using apps like UNUM to plan my feed and match colors.
Color grading your feed is also an excellent way to sell presets, prints, or anything of the like if you eventually want to not only beat the Instagram algorithm but make money from it too!
INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM TIP #6: TURN ON POST NOTIFICATIONS
Engaging with your followers is equally as important as engaging with those you follow. Keep up to date with the profiles that matter the most you and turn on post notifications!
Since the Instagram algorithm makes it hard to see new posts from those you follow, the best way to build community and keep engaging is to have notifications on.
If you’d like, you can also turn on notifications for when someone likes or comments on your posts, but I find that to be a bit too much!
HOW TO BEAT THE INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM WITH EVERY DAY TACTICS, IN SUM
1. Post Photos Daily
- If every day is too much, find a post schedule that works for you and stick to it
- You can also repost older content
2. Post Videos (Reels)
- Video can be scary but a video can be as simple as you want it to be!
- I love posting iPhone videos
3. Reply To DMs
- Show your followers some love and reply to DMs
- People took the time to message you, so why not take the time to message them?
4. Reply To Comments
- The logic for replying to comments is the same as replying to DMs – it’s simply good form!
5. Color Grade Your Feed
- Have a consistent editing style to your work so your followers can recognize it right away!
- Presets are an easy way to do this.
6. Turn On Post Notifications
- Turning on post notifications will help you beat the Instagram Algorithm because you’ll have an easier time keeping up with those you follow and the content you love
- Hopefully, those you follow will engage back with you!
BEATING THE 2021 INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM WITH CONTENT
Okay, so you’re posting daily, replying to comments, answering DMs, but those are the easy tasks. How do I get my audience to spend more time on the app? How do I create engaging content my audience will love? Let’s talk about using kickass content and the 2021 Instagram algorithm!
INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM TIP #1: GET CREATIVE WITH REELS
No one is saying you have to be a videographer to work in favor of the Instagram algorithm, but creating simple Reels is an easy way to incorporate more video into your feed and beat the 2021 Instagram algorithm.
A Reel can be as simple as an iPhone clip from your travels or a compilation of videos! The simple first-person clips make my followers feel like they’re at the scene with me! And more relatable content means more engagement, which means you can beat the Instagram algorithm. Plus, people spend more time watching videos than they do looking at pretty pictures. Again, if you’re wondering what kind of Reels content you should be posting, sign up for my 5-day Reels challenge here! Designed to get you 100 new followers in a week!
INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM TIP #2: PUT MORE EFFORT INTO STORIES
If you’re looking to beat the Instagram algorithm, you must, must, must use Instagram Stories! Instagram Stories are an easy way to end up at the top of your follower’s feed. Post multiple stories in increments throughout the day.
I would recommend sticking to 10 story slides a day. Use polls, funny gifs, and “questions” stickers to keep your audience engaged. You can also incorporate videos into your Instagram Stories, which checks off “using more video” from your list. For more tips on beating the Instagram algorithm and getting more story views, read my blog here.
Instagram stories help you tell a more complete story to your audience. They can watch you go to your fav cafe and sample coffee, then maybe take a poll on what pastry you should get. In other words, stories are fun get your audience hooked on your content for more extended periods of time!
INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM TIP #3: USE HASHTAGS WHERE YOU CAN
Similar to previous years, adding hashtags to your posts is still a must. I recommend you use up the full 30 hashtags. Based on research I have done, it seems like it’s unclear as to whether or not hashtags perform better in comments versus post captions. I, for one, place them in the comments. And now you can follow hashtags! That way, you know what content is performing the best and beating the Instagram algorithm.
Using hashtags also gives your audience something to click on and surf through extra content. Sometimes, I like to place one hashtag in my caption, like #vanlife, so my followers get interested, click the tag and browse more content.
INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM TIP #4: MAKE USE OF CAROUSEL POSTS
Remember, we want our followers to spend more time looking at what we post, so the Instagram algorithm favors us. What better way to have time on your side than with a carousel post? Share a gallery of images, videos, or seamless panos to force your followers to take a minute to dive into your post. Time is our best friend with the Instagram algorithm!
To beat the Instagram algorithm, I also love posting carousels of trips I’ve had in the past. For example, maybe I post images from all 5 Utah National Parks then in the caption I talk about which one was my favorite! Carousels are a GREAT way to recycle old content!
INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM TIP #5: UPLOAD TO IGTV
Did you know that IGTV videos show on the Explore page too? Remember, our goal is to get followers to spend time on the app. You can see how I’m using IGTV by visiting my Instagram profile.
With the creation of IGTV, it’s no surprise that Instagram is ramping up for video. Instagram recently made an algorithm update that allows you to share one-minute IGTV video previews directly to your profile grid. Once the preview is over, your followers are shown a Keep Watching button to continue watching the video on IGTV. I smell more video views coming! You can read my blog on IGTV here.
Want to take this even further? Do an Instagram Live once a month and save the Live as an IGTV video!
INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM TIP #5: USE MICROBLOG CAPTIONS
Now that Instagram is hiding likes, how do we get engagement on our posts? Okay, friend, let me drop some knowledge on you. Likes don’t tell you anything about your audience! Wouldn’t you rather have your followers sharing, saving and commenting on your posts? AKA, actually engaging with you and not just double tapping? SAY HELLO TO MICROBLOGGING.
Microblogging is when you write an Instagram caption that is informative and tells your audience about a specific topic. For example, you could write the 5 steps to your morning routine, 4 must-see spots in XYZ location, fashion tips for INSERT SEASON, etc. I wrote up an entire guide to microblogging and how it can help you beat the Instagram algorithm/ up your business here.
Try it! I’ve been using microblogs to beat the 2021 Instagram algorithm as of late and they’re a serious gamechanger.
HOW TO BEAT THE INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM WITH CONTENT, IN SUM
1. Get Creative With Reels
- Again, you don’t have to be fancy but if you want to beat the 2021 Instagram algorithm, switch things up with Reels!
- Join my 0-100 5-Day Reels Challenge here! In the challenge you’ll learn what kind of Reels content to post, how to get more views, and other tips for converting potential followers into loyal fans! Let’s get you 100 new followers in a week.
2. Put Effort Into Instagram Stories
- Tell your audience a story from beginning to middle to end with the help of Instagram Stories. I love engaging my audience with the fun stickers Instagram has created, too!
3. Use Hashtags Where You Can
- Maximize your reach and give your audience something fun to click on with hashtags!
- Hashtags are also great for categorizing your content into niches full of people who might also love what you’re posting.
4. Make Some Carousel Posts
- Recycle old content or share a series of your favorite videos + photos with a carousel.
- Carousels help you beat the Instagram algorithm because they’ll keep your audience looking at your content for a longer period of time.
5. Upload To IGTV
- IGTV is getting bigger and bigger so you might as well hop on the train now!
6. Use Microblogs
- Switch up your captions and write something informative for your audience. You don’t have to be a blogger to microblog.
- Read my guide on how to microblog for better Instagram captions here.
YOU’D LIKE: How To Write Better Instagram Captions With Microblogs
BEATING THE INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM WITH INSTAGRAM STORIES
INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM TIP #1: POST STORIES DAILY
When you open the app, the Instagram Stories you see at the top of your newsfeed are typically from those you engage with most. Instagram stories are now sprinkled throughout the main newsfeed in the Instagram algorithm’s attempt to make sure you don’t miss a moment!
Instagram accounts who post stories daily will continuously appear on the top of followers’ accounts who they engage with most.
Instagram Stories also have neat features like stickers, quizzes, and GIFs that you can use to make your’s more engaging and beat the Instagram algorithm in 2021!
INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM TIP #2: USE NEW FEATURES
Always find ways to use the newest features Instagram has to offer throughout the year! I have noticed an increase in my engagement when I take the time to see what new features Instagram adds and incorporate them into my page. The 2021 Instagram algorithm is bound to change throughout the year, so keep up with the latest and greatest!
More recently, Instagram launched a Quiz sticker, Questions Sticker, GIFS and Polls, which are accessible features to incorporate into your stories when beating the Instagram algorithm!
INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM TIP #3: GIVE USERS A REASON TO TAP & HOLD
When you write captions on your Stories, use GIFs, you’re giving your followers an incentive to spend more time on your stories. That extra time counts a lot when we’re talking about the Instagram algorithm! As always, you shouldn’t litter your content with stickers and words just to put something out there. Make sure you’re telling a clear story with a purpose.
INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM TIP #4: USE HASHTAGS IN STORIES
Have you ever added hashtags to your stories? This is another way to maximize reach and get more potential eyeballs on your content!
HOW TO BEAT THE INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM WITH STORIES, IN SUM
1. Post Stories Daily
- The more you post stories, the better chance you’ll have at beating the 2021 Instagram algorithm.
- That’s because stories are a great way for your audience to both engage and keep up with you, as I said before.
2. Use New Features
- Instagram has some great features from GIFs to quizzes that you can use to make your stories shine.
- Keep up with the newest features and give them a try!
3. Give Users A Reason To Tap and Hold
- Write captions on your stories that’ll force your followers to pay attention to them and read!
4. Use Hashtags In Stories
- I have mentioned this a few times now but hashtags can really help your reach and should be used in stories too!
YOU’D LIKE: 12 Apps I Use For Instagram Stories
BEATING THE 2021 INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM WITH INSTAGRAM REELS
Look, when Instagram launches a new feature, they want you to use it. Right now, the Reels button is featured dead center on the app, Reels has its own section on the Explore page and people are gaining MILLIONS of views on their Reels.
If you want to beat the 2021 Instagram algorithm, you need to be using Reels.
That’s exactly why I created this 5-Day Reels Challenge!
The challenge is $27 and has helped 1,000+ students.
OTHER WAYS TO BEAT THE INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM
INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM TIP #1: BE SOCIAL
One of the fastest ways to beat the 2021 Instagram algorithm, and get exposure to new followers, is to connect with others. Instagram is a social network, so you really must be social. Meet up with other bloggers, photographers, and influencers you admire. Tag each other in your stories to get each other’s followers to take a peek at your pages. Your followers will jump from page to page to keep following along with the adventure.
With how 2020 went, people are craving connection through a screen. While meeting new folks might not be possible, you can at least connect with your followers more frequently. Let them in! Show up for them so they feel like you’re their friend on the other side of the screen.
INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM TIP #2: READ UP ON YOUR INSIGHTS
To beat the Instagram algorithm, you need to post quality content and make a note of what your followers enjoy. What do they engage with the most? Part of posting quality content is using Instagram Insights to get into the specifics of how followers are interacting with your page.
INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM TIP #3: GET PERSONAL
Long-tail content is making a comeback! Your followers want to know you. A great way to get them to spend more time (remember how time is our best friend?) on your content is to post more extended, more personal captions that show a vulnerable side to you. Be real. Connect with your followers and build a community. You can also ask a question at the end of each post so your followers have an easy way to start a conversation with you.
THE 2021 INSTAGRAM ALGORITHM AND THE EXPLORE PAGE
Oh Explore Page, will I ever land on you? That’s probably the same question most of you are thinking right now. So how does the Instagram algorithm work in tangent with the explore page?
EXPLORE PAGE BREAKDOWN
Consider the Explore page to be a summary of what Instagram thinks you will enjoy. Your Explore Page and your friend’s might look completely different for this reason!
Believe it or not, the Explore Page operates under its own algorithm. It shows you photos, videos, and categories of content hand picked for you! However, getting on the Explore Page isn’t hard!
By following the tips mentioned above, you can beat the Explore Instagram algorithm as well. BUT probably the most important thing you can do is start using Reels. Reels have their own section on the Explore page, which can be massive growth for you in 2021. Explore is also a great way to see what others are posting, so you can determine how your content compares!
A BIG key to getting on the Explore Page is using hashtags! That way the Instagram algorithm knows how to categorize your content for other’s Explore pages!
Did you enjoy these tips? If so, share this article with someone who could benefit from this post!