The Importance of Hashtags on Instagram

Hashtags are so deeply engrained in current social media culture that it’s hard to believe that this symbol was once only known as the “pound sign.” With the advancement of technology and introduction to new forms of social media in the 2000s, the hashtag became known as a way to group information and categorize posts. In particular, the importance of hashtags on Instagram and Twitter became of great value to digital marketers.

What is a Hashtag?

As mentioned above, a hashtag is an organizational grouping method. It is typically a word or phrase that is prefaced by the pound symbol. It’s important to note that these metatags do not work when there are spaces, punctuation, or symbols. Additionally, hashtags will not reach broader audiences if your account is private. In fact, it will only be seen by your followers, meaning that it will limit your potential reach.

Why are Hashtags Important for Digital Marketers?

Engagement

Adding hashtags to your posts opens a dialogue between your brand, followers, and potential followers. By doing this, it can boost your social media engagement through likes, comments, and shares.

Branding

In addition to increasing engagement, adding hashtags to your posts can boost brand awareness. Since anyone can click on a hashtag, your brand can reach other audiences and gain brand recognition when done effectively.

Promotion

Creating a branded hashtag campaign is another way to promote your brand further and open dialogue with potential followers and customers.

How to Use Hashtags

Don’t Hashtag Stuff

With hashtags, less is definitely more. Using too many hashtags on your post can look “spammy” and cause people to scroll without looking at your post.

Avoid Trending Hashtags

Using hashtags with millions of posts under them is going to cause your post to get lost in the crowd. Instead, focus on smaller hashtags where you are more likely to be seen.

Keep Hashtags Short and Sweet

Stringing too many words together in a hashtag will typically result in fewer views. The best hashtags are the ones that are short and to the point.

If your brand is interested in adding to its social media strategy, don’t hesitate to reach out to the digital strategists at Kraus Marketing! Contact us today to get started!