Mastering the Instagram Algorithm: Tips to Boost Your Reach

andreaj59
Jul 17
3 min read

If you’ve ever posted something on Instagram and thought, “Why isn’t anyone seeing this?” you’re not alone. The answer usually lies in one powerful but misunderstood force: the Instagram Algorithm.

At A&M Martech, we believe that once you understand how the algorithm works, you can turn it into your greatest growth ally. Whether you're a brand, content creator, or small business, this guide will help you boost your reach, increase engagement, and stay visible in a crowded feed.

What Is the Instagram Algorithm?

The Instagram Algorithm is a smart system that decides what content people see and in what order. It customizes each user's experience based on what they engage with most, aiming to keep them scrolling for longer.

What many people don’t know is: Instagram uses different algorithms for different features. Feed, Stories, Reels, and Explore and each has its own rules.

How the Instagram Algorithm Works in 2025

Here’s a quick breakdown of what influences the algorithm:

For Feed & Stories

Your interactions: Do you like or comment on someone’s posts often?
Timeliness: Recent posts get priority.
Relationship: You’ll see more content from people or brands you’ve messaged or searched.
Engagement: Posts with more early interaction tend to go further.

For Reels

Watch time: Did people finish the video?
Replays and shares: Are people watching it again or sending it to friends?
Audio: Using trending sounds can give your content a boost.
Entertainment value: The more fun, the better.

For Explore

Based on what users have liked, saved, or followed recently.
The algorithm suggests similar content from accounts you don’t follow, yet.

Tips to Boost Your Reach with the Instagram Algorithm

Let’s get into what really matters: how to make the algorithm work for you.

1. Be Consistent But Valuable

Posting regularly tells Instagram that you’re active. But don’t post just for the sake of it, post with purpose.

Try mixing formats like Reels, carousels, and Stories.
Aim for 3–4 posts a week to start.

2. Make Reels Your Best Friend

Instagram LOVES Reels. They’re one of the easiest ways to grow right now.

Use trending audio
Hook viewers in the first 3 seconds
Add text and subtitles to make it more engaging

3. Write Captions That Start Conversations

The more comments you get, the more the algorithm pays attention.

Ask a question
Share a thought and ask for opinions
Call to action: “Tag a friend who needs this!”

4. Use the Right Hashtags & Keywords

Instagram now acts like a search engine. So don’t just use hashtags. Use clear, relevant keywords in your captions and profile bio.

Combine niche hashtags with trending ones (10–15 is the sweet spot)
Use words your audience is searching for, like “fitness tips,” “makeup hacks,” or “UAE travel spots”

5. Engage Within the First Hour

That first hour after posting? It’s crucial. The algorithm tracks early performance to decide how far to push your post.

Reply to every comment
Like and comment on other accounts in your niche
Answer DMs related to your post

6. Make People Watch Till the End

This is especially true for Reels and Stories.

Tell a quick story
Add movement or surprise
Deliver value at the end (a tip, a reveal, a discount code)

7. Track What Works

Instagram Insights is your best friend. Check your top-performing posts then create more like them.

Look at reach, saves, and shares
Test different visuals, formats, and times

At A&M Martech, we help brands analyze and optimize their content so nothing goes to waste.

Don’t Just Post, Strategize

The Instagram Algorithm isn’t your enemy. It’s a tool, one that rewards smart, engaging, relevant content. The key is understanding what your audience loves and delivering that consistently.

At A&M Martech, we help brands build Instagram strategies that align with how the algorithm works today, not yesterday.

Ready to grow?

Let’s turn your content into an algorithm-friendly machine.

Book a free consultation with A&M Martech for an Instagram growth strategy that gets real results.