Social Media Algorithms: How to Stay Ahead of the Curve

What is a Social Media Algorithm?

How about starting with the basics? To be simple, social media algorithms are like secret recipes that decide what shows up on your feed. Just like a playlist automatically curates songs based on your preferences, social media algorithms use rules and data to pick the most relevant posts, videos, or ads for each user.

Why Understanding Social Media Algorithms is Important?

As earlier said, social media algorithms are like filters that decide what content shows up in a user’s feed from a huge pool of posts. For businesses, for instance, social media algorithms impact whether your content gets seen by your followers and potential new customers.

Frankly speaking, the power of algorithms is huge! It can either break or make a business. This is because the more a user interacts with certain posts or accounts, the more the algorithm suggests similar content. This has a great impact on brand engagement or organic reach, boosting the need for a proper content strategy or social media marketing strategy.

Here’s a brief why understanding social media algorithms matters:

1. They decide who sees your content.
2. They amplify content users are likely to enjoy.
3. They help you reach potential new audiences.
4. They help you improve engagement, organic reach, and visibility.
5. They help you stay on the competitive edge.

How Do Social Media Algorithms Work?

Let us now learn how social media algorithms work. We know that different types of social media platforms have their own unique algorithm. Let us break down how the social media algorithms work for the most popular platforms:

1. Instagram Algorithm

The first on the list is Instagram’s algorithm, Under this, feeds are curated using machine learning. Here, is how its algorithm works:

• Firstly, it evaluates your interactions like likes, comments, and shares.
• Secondly, it considers the type of content you engage with most like photos, videos, and Stories.
• Finally, it ranks posts based on interest, relationships, timeliness, and usage patterns.

2. Facebook Algorithm

The second on the list is Facebook’s algorithm. Under this, feeds are curated based on meaningful interactions. Here, is how its algorithm works:

• Firstly, it prioritizes posts from friends, family, and groups over public pages.
• Secondly, it favors posts that spark conversations through comments and shares.
• Finally, it identifies content that feels personal and community-driven.

3. LinkedIn Algorithm

The third on the list is LinkedIn’s algorithm. Under this, feeds are curated based on professional discussions. Here, is how its algorithm works:

• Firstly, it promotes posts from connections, groups, and followed hashtags.
• Secondly, it favors industry insights and trending topics that generate comments and shares.
• Finally, it rewards active discussions within professional groups.

4. Twitter Algorithm

The fourth on the list is Twitter’s algorithm. Under this, feeds are curated based on relevance. Here, is how its algorithm works:

• Firstly it identifies tweets with high engagement likes, retweets, and replies.
• Secondly, it filters tweets based on the interests and interactions of the user.
• Finally, it showcases the most engaging and relevant content at the top.

5. Pinterest Algorithm

The fifth on the list is Pinterest’s algorithm. Under this, feeds are curated based on quality and relevance. Here, is how its algorithm works:

• Firstly, it assesses the source of the pin and its popularity.
• Secondly, it checks user credibility based on engagement frequency.
• Finally, it matches images with keywords used in descriptions to display accurate results.

Top 5 Strategies For Beating Social Media Algorithms in 2024

Now that you understand the importance of social media algorithms and how they work, let us explore the top strategies to enhance your brand’s online presence.

1. Plan Your Content Smartly

   The first step in the list of best practices for outsmarting social media algorithms is having a solid plan. For instance,

   • Post when your audience is active.
   • Plan what, when, and how often to share.
   • Use scheduling tools for efficiency.
   • Share content your audience enjoys

   This will help you keep your followers engaged and attract new ones.

2. Focus on Engagement

   The second step on the list of best content strategies for beating social media algorithm updates is to focus on getting people to engage with your posts. Posts with more likes, comments, and shares reach more people. For boosting engagement, you can,

   • Add questions or calls to action.
   • Reply to comments and messages.

   This will help you build trust with your followers, ensuring your brand is sustained in the long run.

3. Use Hashtags Wisely

   The third step on the list of proven strategies to increase visibility on social media in 2024 is to use hashtags to increase visibility. Hashtags help people find your content. For this, you can:

   • Use hashtags that match your post and audience.
   • Check competitors' hashtags and mix popular with niche ones.
   • Create unique hashtags to promote your brand or campaigns.

   This will let you reach new people and grow your audience.

4. Start Tagging Others

   The fourth strategy on the list for beating the algorithm in social media marketing is to tag others. Tagging others is a great way to boost your organic reach. When you tag someone, not only will your followers see the post, but the followers of the person you tagged will also see it. This encourages them to share your content, extending your reach and increasing engagement.

5. Adopt Trial and Error

   The fifth strategy is to embrace trial and error methods. Since social media algorithms are constantly changing, brands need to adjust their content strategy too. It can be frustrating, but experimenting with different approaches will help you connect with more people. Eventually letting you figure out how to make the algorithm work in your favor.

Top 3 Future Trends To Expect in Social Media Algorithms

1. Encourage User-Generated Content

   The first trend noticeable in social media algorithms in 2025 and beyond is the continuity of inspiring your audience to create content about your brand. This will build trust and help platforms see your content as genuine, leading to more visibility.

2. Work with Influencers

   The second social media trend that is expected to grow is collaborating with influencers who have a strong presence in the market. This will create a personal connection with your audience, increasing your brand’s exposure and trustworthiness.

3. Leverage AI for Content Predictions

   The third trend is the rise of AI-powered algorithms that can predict what users will want to see. By aligning your content with AI predictions, brands will start connecting with the audience in a more personalized way and stay ahead of the competition.

That's it! Let us take a quick look at some of the proven tips that cater to every social media platform, letting you crack the future trends of social media algorithms.

4 Proven Tips For Outsmarting Algorithms on Various Social Media Platforms

1. Use Relevant Captions or Keywords

   The first tip for improving organic reach on social media platforms is to make sure to use clear captions and relevant keywords. This will help the algorithm understand your content and show it to the right audience.

2. Infuse Humor and Emotions

   The second tip is to incorporate humor and emotions that are funny or heartwarming moments in your videos. This will evoke emotions that tend to get shared more, helping your content reach a larger audience.

3. Keep Videos Short and Sweet

   The third strategy is to make your videos concise. This is because short, engaging videos perform better, increasing the chances of your brand videos being watched fully.

4. Jump on Current Trends

   The fourth tip is to participate in current trends. Join trending conversations by using popular sounds or memes. This will make your content more discoverable and shareable.