How to Get Your Social Media Content Seen Despite the Ever-Changing Algorithms
Reading Time: ~3 Mins | Written By: Rachel Dill
Welcome to the era of ever-changing algorithms, where getting your content seen requires a modern playbook. Social media landscapes are constantly shifting, but fear not—here's your comprehensive guide to not just surviving, but thriving in the dynamic world of algorithms.
Nail the Timing, Every Time
In a world where attention spans are fleeting, timing is everything. Dive into platform analytics to identify your audience's prime time. For instance, Instagram thrives in the mornings (7 am to 8 am) and in the evenings (5 pm to 7 pm), while LinkedIn is most active on weekdays at noon.
Optimize your posting schedule to align with your audience's digital habits, ensuring your content appears at the forefront of their feeds. Check out this blog post on How to Properly Use Instagram Analytics to get started, and if you're keen on diving deeper into understanding your social media impact, don't forget to explore our blog post on 5 Social Media Metrics to Keep an Eye On.
Stories, Reels, and Instant Appeal
The rise of Stories and Reels across platforms signifies a shift towards more engaging, instant content. It's not just about creating content; it's about crafting experiences. Share behind-the-scenes glimpses, run polls, and deliver snackable, entertaining, short-form videos. These features provide a unique opportunity to connect with your audience on a more personal level, fostering a sense of immediacy and authenticity. Some excellent examples of this are:
Shareability is Key
Crafting shareable content is an art that can amplify your reach exponentially. Create infographics that simplify complex information, initiate viral challenges that encourage user participation, or curate user-generated content. For example, Glossier's strategy of encouraging customers to share their makeup routines and tips has created a community-driven content approach, increasing brand visibility organically.
Engage or Be Forgotten
Social media is a conversation, not a monologue. Respond promptly to comments, ask questions, and actively participate in discussions. A great example is Netflix, which engages its audience not only through show recommendations but also by responding to memes and comments with wit and humour. By being part of the ongoing dialogue, you not only enhance visibility but also build a community around your brand.
Tailor, Tailor, Tailor
One-size-fits-all content doesn't cut it on social media. Each platform has its own unique features and audience. LinkedIn caters to a professional crowd, while Instagram is visually oriented. Take inspiration from Spotify's approach—using data to curate personalized playlists and recommendations tailored to individual user preferences. Tailor your content strategy to fit the vibe of each platform for maximum impact.
#HashtagMagic
Hashtags are the modern-day search engine for social media. Research and use relevant and trending tags to increase discoverability. If you're sharing fitness content on Instagram, strategically include popular fitness-related hashtags like #GymMotivation or #Workout. This not only helps categorize your content but also enhances its visibility to a broader audience.
Money Talks: Paid Advertising
While organic reach is vital, paid advertising can give your content an extra boost. Allocate a budget for targeted advertising on platforms like Facebook and Instagram. Boost well-performing posts or run a sleek, targeted ad campaign to reach specific demographics. While it involves spending, the returns in terms of increased visibility can be substantial. Read this post on 3 Best Practices for Instagram Ad Optimization for some useful insights.
Stay Ahead or Fade Away
Social media algorithms are in a constant state of evolution. Stay informed about updates and changes on each platform. Platforms often provide guidelines and insights for content creators. YouTube Creator Insider, for instance, is a valuable resource where YouTube shares updates and tips to help creators navigate the ever-changing landscape. Being proactive and adapting to algorithmic shifts ensures your content remains relevant and visible.
Navigating the intricate world of social media algorithms demands a strategic and adaptable approach. Master the art of timing, embrace instant content, create shareable experiences, engage authentically, tailor content for each platform, wield the power of hashtags, leverage paid advertising, and stay ahead of algorithmic changes. Your content's time to shine in the digital spotlight is now.
