“Social Media Algorithms Explained: How to Boost Your Organic Reach”

Have you ever wondered why certain posts get so much attention while others hardly get any? Social media algorithms are one strong, dynamic force that holds the key to the solution.

At AD Maastar, we think that the secret to increasing your brand’s visibility without depending only on sponsored advertisements is to comprehend how these algorithms operate. Let’s dissect it.

What Is a Social Media Algorithm?

A social media algorithm is a set of rules and data-driven processes that platforms use to determine which content appears in a user’s feed—and in what order.

Each platform (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok, etc.) has its own proprietary algorithm, but they generally prioritize content based on relevance, engagement, and user behavior.

Key Ranking Factors by Platform

📸 Instagram

• Engagement: Likes, comments, shares, and saves boost visibility.
• Relationship: Content from accounts you interact with appears more.
• Timeliness: Newer posts are prioritized.
• Type of Content: Reels are currently favored.

👍 Facebook

• Meaningful Interactions: Comments and shares weigh more than likes.
• Relevancy Score: Facebook predicts how relevant a post is to each user.
• Video Completion Rate: Videos watched to the end are rewarded.

🎯 LinkedIn

• Connection Strength: Close connections come first.
• Engagement Velocity: Quick engagement after posting signals quality.
• Content-Type: Native content (text, images, documents) performs best.

🎵 TikTok

• Watch Time: Completion rate and replays boost reach.
• User Interactions: Likes, comments, and shares help.
• Content Relevance: Based on user behavior, hashtags, and audio trends.

How to Boost Your Organic Reach

Here are actionable strategies that we at AD Maastar implement with clients to work with the algorithm, not against it.

1. Post Consistently, But With Purpose
Consistency helps you stay relevant, but don’t just post to fill space. Prioritize quality, informative, or entertaining content that encourages interaction.

2. Encourage Engagement
Ask questions, run polls, use CTAs like “Double tap if you agree” or “Tag a friend.” Engagement signals importance to the algorithm.

3. Leverage New Features
Social platforms reward users who adopt their latest features (like Instagram Reels or LinkedIn Newsletters). Early adoption can mean higher reach.

4. Optimize Posting Times
Post when your audience is most active. Use analytics to determine optimal timing by platform.

5. Use Hashtags Strategically
Hashtags help categorize content and increase discoverability—but don’t overdo it. Focus on relevance and mix trending with niche hashtags.

6. Focus on Video
Short-form video is prioritized across platforms. Videos with high watch times and replays are favored by most algorithms.

7. Respond to Comments
Social platforms reward creators who interact with their audience. It also fosters a community around your brand.

Concluding remarks

Despite their seeming intricacy, social media algorithms are made to give preference to valuable and engaging material. Your content can flourish—naturally—if you comprehend and align with them.

At AD Maastar, we assist brands in staying ahead of the curve, creating content that is seen, and deciphering algorithm updates. Do you need assistance increasing your organic reach?

📲 Let’s have a conversation. Set up a free strategy call right now.