Oh, the dreaded Instagram. The petty girl inside me is annoyed that I’m even dedicating an entire post to Instagram, but at the end of the day, it’s a huge part of my business.
I definitely miss the days when Instagram did NOT have an algorithm, but I think everyone can agree with me on that. Even non-bloggers. Yes, it’s so freakin’ annoying and it’s so frustrating to not be able to fully understand the Instagram algorithm. But when it comes down to it, bloggers are going to continue to use Instagram. It’s part of our business, a very big part of it. So it’s very important for us bloggers to learn how to adapt to it.
Instagram Algorithm: If you want engagement, you need to engage.
It’s as simple as that. The new algorithm is driven by engagement (I think). Brands are beginning to take engagement into consideration when looking for influencers for campaigns. For me, I’ve learned that if I want engagement on my posts, I need to take the time to engage with others. I typically spend a good hour in the morning engaging with those I follow and responding to any comments or DMs from the previous night. Since I work during the day, I’m just really liking photos, not truly engaging with what’s popping up on my feed. At night, that’s when I’m really engaging. On my way home from work, I’m commenting and liking what’s on my feed, as well as looking at the Explore page to see if there’s anyone I want to follow and engage with.
Instagram Algorithm: If you’re an influencer using Instagram, support other influencers.
We’re in the day and age where we just need to support each other. The Internet is a GIGANTIC place. There’s space for all of us. There’s enough brands and campaigns to go around. Find your niche, and do it best. But don’t forget about the other influencers in this space. Think about how much work you put into your content…and then think about how many influencers are doing the same thing. It’s not going to kill you to engage or follow an influencer who is bigger or smaller than you. It goes back the above portion, engaging with each other is so important.
Instagram Algorithm: If you’re not an influencer, please support influencers.
A lot of readers and followers aren’t bloggers or influencers, which is actually really cool. But I also know a lot of people who get fed up with some influencers. I really think it’s because there’s so much behind the scenes and sometimes a lack of transparency between those who blog and those who don’t. But when I tell you that influencers really need all the help they can get on Instagram, I mean it. We really do. Like someone’s photo. Tell them you like what they’re wearing and why. Answer the question they asked you in their caption. Respond to one of their Instagram Stories. If you like their content, just engage with them. Get to know them, and they’ll get to know you.
Instagram Algorithm: Don’t take it so seriously.
I touched upon this in my “stop giving a sh*t” post, but I wanted to elaborate. I’m not saying you shouldn’t completely stop caring about your Instagram. It’s obviously a big part of my business, and always a selling point for when I’m putting together a collaboration with a brand. But it in no way should be your main focus. I know it’s not mine. I’m really honing in on my blog, what I can bring to the table, and how can I improve. Instagram is not a place where I’m looking for “new” readers/followers. I’m looking for ways to engage with the content I’m putting out there with those who are already following me. Of course I want to grow, but it’s not my top priority. I’m just not going to put all of my effort and energy into something that is clearly going against the Instagram algorithm. Instead, I’m finding ways to work with the Instagram algorithm. Sure, it’s annoying as hell sometimes, but I know it’s an important thing to do in order to be successful on Instagram.
What happened when I started adapting to the Instagram algorithm.
I noticed a difference in how I thought. Since I was no longer solely focusing on numbers, I was noticing some other things were happening. I was engaging with people who’s content I wanted to see on my feed. I was building relationships with these followers, and I honestly love connecting with them through Instagram. It’s really cool not actually knowing someone, yet feeling like you do. All because of something you posted. Really cool.
THE LOOK | poncho, jeans, boots, belt, hat, sunglasses
SHOP THE POST
You are so right about all of these! I’ve also been trying to focus more on engagement and not numbers. Quality over quantity 🙂
http://www.stylebysamantha.david
Thank you, Samantha! Totally agree, quality > quantity! xx
Nailed it. Just nailed it lady. Couldn’t agree more. Also, you are chicer than ever in this post.
xo Laura Leigh
http://www.louellareese.com
Ah, thank you so much! And just as I posted that, Instagram comes out with new algorithm updates 😉
Such a great post (as always)! Have a great day ahead, Dana!
Thanks so much, Jenn! Hope you’re having a great week!
“It’s really cool not actually knowing someone, yet feeling like you do. All because of something you posted.”
I love this! I haven’t done it often, but I also like actually meeting new people face to face because we found each other on IG. It really can be an awesome way to connect with people if you’re genuine about it. Great piece.
Lindsey xx
I definitely need to get better at meeting those I “know” online in person. I still get so nervous!
Thanks for reading, Lindsey! xx
You’re always crushing it with these posts, lady! Admittedly, I need to get better about engaging with others (I really could use 2 hours a day of just commenting and answering DMs, I tend to fall behind on that!), but I think that makes a huge difference. Also, this poncho is super chic and you’ve officially inspired me to rock more hats, thank you!!
I appreciate that, Alicia!
And yes, I totally have phone ADD, so I’m constantly getting distracted when I’m trying to engage — definitely need to work on this.
xx
I agree that once you let go of the “resentment” of the algorithm change, it’s such much more fun to plan and post your content! And honestly your content is THE BEST so keep it up girl .. it’s not going unrecognized!
-Morgan
How 2 Wear It [] http://how2wearit.com
Agreed! I’m having a lot of fun just working on my feed and really focusing on my blog!
I truly appreciate your sweet words, they mean so so so much to me!
xx
This was such a good post and I couldn’t agree more! Instagram is SO annoying lately so this was great timing for you to share this! Keep up the amazing work!
Thanks for reading, Krystin! xx
It’s so true! Engagement makes social media so much more useful, and also fun! I keep saying I’m going to make a concerted effort to be better at engaging on instagram – thanks for the push! xAllie http://www.theallthatglittersblog.com
Yes! It’s so much more fun when you engage in an authentic way, therefore creating a relationship with people all over the world! xx
Seriously! Support people! It is so easy to do!
http://www.repressingthecrazy.com
I KNOW! Thanks for reading! xx
As a non influencer I am thoroughly annoyed with Instagram but now after reading your post I feel a little differently about it. Definitely going to engage more with my faves. Also, this look is fabulous and I think I need more ponchos in my closet 🙂
Thank you so much for reading, Nicole! Glad to see you sharing your input with me! xx
I still struggle with “letting go” of not being able to control how I’m performing on Instagram but I totally agree with all of your points. It’s better to just stop fighting it and focus on other things and enjoy Instagram for what it is! Great post, Dana! xo Bryn http://www.waketonroad.com
It’s so hard, but so worth it! I’ve been having a lot of fun with my feed and really focusing on the blog! Thanks for stopping by, Bryn xx
I love this. Personally I feel the same way, ‘sharing is caring’ is what I think of. I’ve been spending 10 minutes in the morning and evening engaging with other people and noticed a change in engagement. I’m not so worried about the numbers aspect anymore, as I am with genuine feedback and comments. Thanks for sharing! xo, nichole thedailypursuit
YES! I’m so much more concerned with building a relationship with those who are already following me! Thanks so much for stopping by, Nichole! xx
Love this post!! I just rebranded and started over from a different account that we didn’t start out engaging as much. I am now with my new account and loving social meadow sooo much more without the worry of number of followers!
xx Tammy
http://www.HerFashionedLife.com
Thanks for stopping by today, Tammy! Kudos to you for starting over with a different account, that must have been a difficult experience, but feel so worth it now! xx
First of all, this outfit is AMAZING on you! Love that you paired it with that hat and belt. Second, ugh I feel you on the Insta saga! You spelled it out in a great way though.
Xx Taylor
http://www.lightscameracatwalk.com/
Loved this post!!!! As a new blogger, I find it a lot harder to grow my numbers. However you’re right, it shouldn’t just be about that!
-Caitlin
http://www.sparklesandsunshineblog.com