Algorithm 101 - Working with it to Increase Your Engagement

What is the algorithm anyway?

Social media networks put an algorithm in place to sort posts based on relevancy instead of time posted, meaning you don't usually see every single post from those you follow. This algorithm determines what posts you see, and thus what posts your followers see, so it is extremely important. And learning how to work with the algorithm is even more important. The algorithm can get a bad rap, it's not perfect by any means. And changes to it may lead to a temporary drop in engagement, but this should be minimal. We believe and teach a social media strategy that stands the test of changes. Although there are often tweaks made to the algorithm, the basics stay the same. And your social media strategy should withstand these changes no problem.

Here are  7 ways you can work with the algorithm and in turn increase your engagement ASAP. 

1. Double sided engagement - Engagement is everything when it comes to the algorithm. The more people engage with your posts, the more the algorithm will deem your post as "worthy" to be seen by more people. And the more you engage with other people, they are more likely to return the favor. It’s alllll about building a brand community. 

2. Tag other companies and brands (where relevant) - Fingers crossed they reshare right? We love those big companies that also support the growing ones. But even if they don’t, tagging brands where relevant can give your post more umph into the algorithm’s eyes. (Don’t overtag or tag where it doesn’t make sense - it’ll work against you.)

3. Always post at the right times - This is so simple! Just look at your insights and see when your audience is most active. Post then! 

4. Use relevant hashtags - Especially if you are working on growth and want to show up on the discovery page, make sure you use relevant and popular hashtags that people in your niche are searching for.

5. Be active - Daily, at minimum. It depends on the social platforms you use but posting 1-2x a day is recommended. 

6. Mix up your medium - Images, videos, GIFS, graphics...mix it up! This will give you a good idea of what your audience is into. Read your analytics and see what kinds of posts are getting the most love and then respond accordingly.

7. Measure and optimize - Always read your analytics. Every month at the minimum! It’s good to know what posts your audience is enjoying and sharing. When your audience is on. Where they are at. What hashtags are working best. All of these details are so important to growing a successful brand account. 

Overwhelmed? Deep breath. Start with one change, and go from there. You don’t need to do all of this today - it’s a process. And if it seems too much, well that’s what we’re here for. Reach out and set up a discovery call with us.