Hashtags do work!

It can seem confusing and sometimes tedious to use hashtags when sharing content, but it is so worth it. First, you need to understand how they work and what the goal is when using them.

Recently (September 2021) Instagram's creator account outlined specific tips and updates for using hashtags. First being how many to use... they recommend 3-5 per post. It is also recommended, to use the most relevant and specific related hashtags to your content while also mixing in well-known niches. Being specific in niches group hashtags can help your content get discovered, which in the end will increase your reach.

Which brings us to the goal of hashtags, discoverability! You want others to be able to find you and hashtags can help them discover your content, leading them to your accounts/pages. These are not rules, but suggestions, meaning, you do not have to limit your hashtags or completely change your go-to list. Just maybe keep these tips in mind, try them out for a consistent amount of time, and see if they work for you and your brand/business.

Hashtags lead others to you and allow you join communities of likeness. For example, we can follow certain hashtags, allowing us to see content that relates to it. So, if I choose to follow #motivationalquotes my feed will reflect motivational quotes from those that use the hashtag when sharing related content. Those who follow #blackownedbusiness may want to ensure they are hip to new Black owned business to support for their next purchases. That is why you must outline purpose and strategy in the hashtags you decide to use and check in on what is listed under those choose few to make sure you are "found" in the right place.

Great luck!

-Whitney S. Strong

HHC Co-Founder & Creative Director