Hashtag tips for Insta users

One question that keeps popping up is whether it’s best to put hashtags in an Instagram post or add them as a comment.

Well, it’s perfectly fine to do either, but putting them in the post usually performs better in terms of reach. This is because it helps to categorise your content and make it more visible on search results to people who aren’t currently following you but are interested in that particular hashtag.

I prefer it, because if you’re scheduling your post in advance, you can include the hashtags and it’s a job done. You can’t schedule the comment.

One thing to be aware of: don’t be guilty of “hashtag stuffing” – focus on using a few relevant hashtags that accurately describe your content to improve engagement and visibility. You’re allowed 30 per post but analytics generally show that it’s best to stick to 10-15 max. You can also have up to 10 in stories – but that usually makes them look a bit messy.

Here are a few typical pros and cons for post hashtags:

Hashtags in the caption:

• Pros:
  • Indexed immediately by Instagram’s algorithm.
  • Easy to edit if you’ve made a mistake.
  • Can increase visibility slightly faster.
  • Easier to track if your post is ranking under a hashtag.
    
• Cons:
  • Looks messy or cluttered if you use too many hashtags and they’re not formatted well.
  • Can distract from the main caption if too many are used.

Hashtags in the first comment:

• Pros:
  • Cleaner looking caption.
  • Easier to maintain a polished brand aesthetic – assuming people are reading the whole comment rather than simply looking at your visual.
    
• Cons:
  • If you delay posting the comment and someone else jumps in, the hashtags may not be indexed as quickly or could completely miss out on being included in the indexing.
  • Not all scheduling tools support auto-posting hashtags in the comment.
  • You can’t edit the comment if you’ve made a mistake

So the verdict – around ten hashtags within the actual post is perfect. (As long as they’re relevant!)

If you’d like me to take a quick look and send you feedback on your hashtags, drop me a note or tag me in your Insta post. I’m @weekendwitchsocialmedia.

Happy hashtagging!!