7 Tactics To Conquering Social Media Algorithms

• By
• May 12, 2018
• Social

As social media algorithms rapidly change, it can be exhausting trying to keep up. Algorithms can be messy, complicated, downright confusing, and even great content can be easily overlooked.

So what are social media algorithms? A social media algorithm is a social media platform’s attempt to predict what types of content users want to see based on varying data points, like how long users spend reading a post or the types of links users click.

Each time you post something on social media, the algorithms immediately start analyzing and ranking your content. With constant changes and differing algorithms on every platform, how do you make sure your content is actually seen?

1. Diversify, Diversify, Diversify!

A simple photo + text post is so 2008. Diversify your post types using varying media including links, videos, live streaming, multi-photos, polls, hashtags, check-ins, tags, and 360 photos and videos. Having a solid mix of content will not only boost their rankings in the social media algorithms, but it will make your posts much more engaging to your audience.

2. Optimize for Social SEO.

SEO isn’t just for Google search anymore. Social SEO isn’t just a myth— it’s very real. Optimize your posts for in-platform searchability using keywords, check ins, and tags to make your content easy to find.

3. The First Few Minutes Matter.

If your post isn’t doing well within an hour, it’s probably not going to stick around on feeds long enough for people to see it. Since social media algorithm analysis starts immediately after posting, engagement is measured right off the bat. Post at a time that your followers are actually online, and provide a question or CTA (call to action) to promote engagement.  

4. Pay to Play.

Remember the good ole days when you could build a social following with $0? Not anymore. Organic reach has been declining for years, but that doesn’t mean you can’t adapt. Let’s be real— social media is a pay-to-play platform, so it’s important to create a strategic paid strategy paired with great content.

5. Optimize Your Profile.

Social media platforms favor profiles that look professional. Even without a huge following, you can boost your base organic reach with a credible profile. Utilize as many features as you can to build out your profile, but start with the basics—a good profile pic, an easy website link, contact info, and a solid bio can all go a long way.

6. Use Native Tools.

Want to make a social platform favor your content? Use new tools as they come out. Platforms want to promote new tools, so utilizing them early will automatically bolster some extra impressions. Facebook’s new AR tool is a great place to start.

7. Don’t Post for the Sake of Posting.

Only share content that educates, informs or entertains. Post consistently, but not too much. Too many posts will be flagged as spam and deprioritized in feeds, and there’s definitely a balance between informative and annoying.

Ready to take your social media to the next level? Contact us for a free social media evaluation.