Finding Your Niche: How Instagram's New Hashtag Search Works
Instagram has implemented a change to how hashtags function within the app for content discovery. Previously, tapping on a hashtag led users to a feed showcasing the "Top Posts" associated with that tag. Now, users are directed to a broader search result page encompassing various elements related to the hashtag.
From Top Posts to Richer Search Results
Imagine searching for "#makeup" in the past. You'd be presented with a feed displaying the most popular posts containing that hashtag. Under the new system, tapping "#makeup" takes you to a comprehensive search result page similar to the Explore tab. This richer search result page includes:
- Accounts: Profiles relevant to the hashtag theme (e.g., makeup artists, beauty brands).
- Audio: Music or sound effects commonly used in posts related to the hashtag.
- Places: Physical locations associated with the hashtag (e.g., makeup stores, beauty salons).
- Reels: Short-form video content featuring the hashtag.
This shift aims to enhance user discovery beyond just the most popular posts. By offering a wider range of elements, Instagram hopes to:
- Improve Profile Visibility: The focus goes beyond highlighting content to facilitating profile discovery. Profiles with relevant keywords in their names or descriptions can gain increased exposure through the "Accounts" section.
- Expand Search Behaviour: Connecting users to various content formats (audio, places, Reels) encourages them to explore different avenues within the app.
A Logical Step for Deeper Exploration
This update isn't a drastic change, but rather a natural progression. The Explore tab already allows users to delve into diverse elements. The new hashtag search simply aligns with this established functionality, offering a more comprehensive exploration experience.
Optimizing Your Profile for Discovery
With the emphasis shifting towards profile keywords, here's what you can do:
- Target Keywords: Ensure your profile name and description incorporate relevant keywords associated with your niche. This increases your chances of appearing in the "Accounts" section of hashtag searches.
Reels Take Center Stage
The growing popularity of Reels benefits from this update. Users searching for a hashtag can now seamlessly switch to the dedicated Reels section for that specific topic, potentially boosting engagement with short-form video content.
A Positive Step Forward
Overall, this update represents a positive development for content discovery on Instagram. It provides users with a richer search experience and facilitates broader exploration within the app. While some might yearn for the ability to sort results by date again, the overall benefits seem to outweigh this drawback.
