We are halfway through 2022 (sorry!) and we hope you already have your hashtag strategy in place, but if you don’t then we have some simple tips to help you make sure your posts are reaching the right people.

Last year Instagram announced a change in how hashtags are used. Instead of being a search tool it has become a categorisation tool, but what does that mean? Well, if we break it down then it means that social media platforms can’t be sure what your image is of, so they use other factors to determine your content and where it should show up. If you are like me and love a label machine then think of it as your image or video as the parcel and your hashtag is the label.

So, here are five top tips when it comes to hashtags:

Brand hashtag - Do you have a brand hashtag? If you don’t then you need one. Think of it as a filing system. But, don’t just stop there. Add a call to action to add an extra level of searchability.
Think about community - Is there a hashtag within the industry that you know resonates with you and your business? Think about where you could place that hashtag and why you would use it.
Location, Location, Location - Don’t forget where you are based. A local audience could be key to your business from a client perspective, but it could also be essential to recruitment or a way of aligning yourself with other local brands.
Product descriptions - Put yourself in the shoes of your consumer. What would they be searching for when they are looking for a product you offer? If you don’t know your keyword searches then consider this a reminder YOU SHOULD DO THIS - and, sorry to be the one to tell you this but it can change and you need to be regularly looking at this. Not sure how to - give us a shout!
Create a spreadsheet - I love a spreadsheet for all things social, but when it comes to hashtags it can be really helpful to have one that breaks down the areas above. That way a simple copy and paste job can mean you get the right hashtags placed with the right images. Bonus Tip: When you see a new one drop it straight in the list so you don’t forget it for future use.

Oh, and don’t forget the algorithm is multifaceted. Hashtags aren’t the only aspect you should be thinking about. If you aren’t sure what else you should be doing then drop us a message. I am social obsessed so if you are feeling deflated about your brand Instagram, or you feel really daunted about TikTok then I am your gal!

LJ x