How to Boost Engagement Using Hashtag Optimization

How to Boost Engagement Using Hashtag Optimization

#Instagood, #VSCO, #followme…

Are you guilty of using these #hashtags? Generic hashtags (like the ones mentioned above) often attract bots and spammers to your profile, which can lead to a host of random emojis and “Follow for Follow?” comments under your posts. For entrepreneurs, this can be counterproductive to what your social media platform is used for—marketing to your target audience or colleagues that work in the same industry as you. To circumvent bots and spammers from flocking to your comments, consider implementing an effective hashtag strategy! Here are 3 tips to boost engagement by using Hashtag optimization:

1. 30 is the New Black: A little-known fact about Instagram is that users can post up to 30 hashtags per post. We HIGHLY recommend adhering to this rule. Remember—a high number of hashtags equals a high number of views to your posts!
2. Be More Specific: As you’re brainstorming which 30 hashtags to use, consider implementing niche and industry hashtags! Niche and industry hashtags will attract the attention of potential colleagues and clients. Ex: If you’re a digital publicist, you’ll want to use #publicrelations or #brandconsultant underneath your posts!
3. Use the Hashtag Formula: Strategy is key when it comes to proper hashtag placement, so consider using the Hashtag formula:

• 5-7 Hashtags with 100k-500k uses
• 5-7 Hashtags with 10k-100k uses
• 3-5 niche-specific hashtags
• 1-3 brand-specific hashtags

Please note that if you have a following of under 10k, you’ll want to adhere to using hashtags with 10k-100k uses! You don’t want your posts to be overlooked by those who have a higher following.

Use these tips as you brainstorm hashtags for your next posts. Happy Digital Marketing!

Written by Summer Intern Kyra White