Understanding social media algorithms

A deep dive into how social media algorithms work and how to use them to increase post visibility

Navigating the world of social media can feel like solving a complex puzzle. You create great content, but sometimes it just doesn’t get the attention it deserves.

The culprit? Social media algorithms.

These behind-the-scenes rules determine which posts get seen and which get buried.

Let’s take a deep dive into understanding how these algorithms work on popular platforms and how you can leverage this knowledge to boost your post visibility.

What are social media algorithms?

At its core, an algorithm is a set of rules or calculations used by social media platforms to determine the order in which posts appear on a user’s feed. These algorithms analyze various factors to decide which content is most relevant to each user.

The goal is to keep users engaged by showing them content they’re likely to interact with.

Facebook’s algorithm: the news feed

Facebook’s algorithm, known as EdgeRank, has evolved significantly over the years.

Currently, it prioritizes content based on:

1. Engagement: Posts that receive a lot of likes, comments, and shares are more likely to appear in users’ feeds.
2. Relevancy: Facebook predicts how relevant a post will be to a user based on their past behavior and interactions.
3. Content type: Videos, especially live videos, often get higher visibility compared to text or image posts.
4. Recency: Newer posts are generally favored over older ones.

Tips to increase visibility on Facebook:

• Post high-quality, engaging content that encourages interaction.
• Use a mix of content types, with a focus on videos.
• Post at times when your audience is most active.
• Respond to comments and engage with your audience to boost interaction.

Instagram’s algorithm: the explore tab

Instagram’s algorithm works similarly to Facebook’s, focusing on:

1. Engagement: Likes, comments, shares, and saves are crucial.
2. Relationship: Posts from accounts you interact with frequently are prioritized.
3. Timeliness: Newer posts are shown more often.
4. Profile sSearches: Accounts you search for often will have their posts shown more in your feed.

Tips to increase visibility on Instagram:

• Post visually appealing and high-quality images or videos.
• Use relevant hashtags to reach a wider audience.
• Post consistently and at optimal times.
• Engage with your followers regularly to build strong relationships.

>>> 6 ideas for Instagram

LinkedIn’s algorithm: the professional network

LinkedIn’s algorithm focuses on professional engagement and prioritizes:

1. Engagement: Posts with high engagement rates, especially comments and shares, are prioritized.
2. Connections: Posts from your direct connections and relevant groups are shown more often.
3. Content type: Articles and posts with professional insights tend to perform well.

Tips to increase visibility on LinkedIn:

• Share industry insights and professional experiences.
• Engage with your connections’ posts to increase visibility.
• Post regularly, but focus on quality over quantity.
• Use LinkedIn’s publishing platform to share longer articles.

TikTok’s algorithm: the For You page

TikTok’s algorithm is designed to surface content that is highly engaging and personalized. Key factors include:

1. User interaction: Likes, shares, comments, and watch time are crucial.
2. Video information: Hashtags, sounds, and captions help categorize and promote content.
3. Device and account settings: Language preference, country setting, and device type also play a role.

Tips to increase visibility on TikTok:

• Create short, engaging videos that capture attention quickly.
• Use trending sounds and hashtags to reach a broader audience.
• Post regularly and participate in challenges.
• Engage with other users by liking, commenting, and sharing their videos.

>>> Get more followers on TikTok

Conclusion on social media algorithms

Understanding the complexity of social media’s algorithms can be daunting, but it is essential to maximise the visibility of your content.

By focusing on engagement, relevance and the specific preferences of each platform, you can create a strategy that works with the algorithms rather than against them.

Keep experimenting, stay abreast of algorithm changes and, above all, engage authentically with your audience.

With these insights, you will be well on your way to improving your social media presence and achieving greater reach.