“You'd be amazed how much more reach your posts get when you use hashtags on social media.” ~ Kat Milner

Introduction:

Using hashtags effectively on your social media posts can significantly enhance your visibility and engagement. Let's look at the top reasons and tips for using hashtags.

Top Reasons to Use Hashtags:

1. Increased Visibility

Hashtags categorise your content, making it discoverable to a broader audience. Meaning that people who are not following you will see your content.

When people search or follow specific hashtags, your posts appear in their feeds.

2. Targeting Specific Audiences

Hashtags help you reach your ideal target audience by tapping into niche communities.

For example, using hashtags related to your specific type of coaching - for example, empowerment coaching - can attract people interested in personal development.

3. Improved Engagement

Posts that include hashtags more receive more likes, comments, and shares, because they reach a larger audience.

This can lead to more interactions and connections with potential clients.

4. Brand Awareness

Creating and consistently using a branded hashtag can help establish your brand identity.

It also encourages your audience to use the hashtag, further promoting your brand.

Example: #simplifyyourtech

5. Tracking Trends

Hashtags allow you to join trending conversations or events, increasing your chances of being noticed in popular discussions

Top Tips for Using Hashtags:

1. Research Popular Hashtags

Use tools like Instagram's Explore page, Hashtagify, or other analytics platforms to find popular and relevant hashtags in your niche.

Hashtagify for Android

Hashtagify for Apple

2. Mix Popular and Niche Hashtags

While popular hashtags can get you in front of a large audience, niche hashtags help you reach a more targeted group. A combination of both increases your chances of visibility.

3. Create a Branded Hashtag

Develop a unique hashtag specific to your brand or campaign, and encourage your audience to use it. This can help build a community around your brand.

Example: #simplifyyourtech

4. Limit the Number of Hashtags You Use

On platforms like Instagram, using around 5-10 relevant hashtags is ideal.

Too many can look spammy, while too few can limit your reach.

Instagram allows up to 30 hashtags - rather than using them all, rotate them in keeping with the theme of your posts.

5. Keep it Relevant

Ensure the hashtags you use are directly related to your content. Irrelevant hashtags can confuse your audience and hurt your engagement.

6. Engage With Hashtags

Don't just use hashtags - explore them.

Engage with others' content under the same hashtags to build relationships and increase your visibility.

7. Monitor and Adjust

Regularly check the performance of your hashtags.

If certain hashtags aren't driving results, swap them out for others and keep experimenting.

By using hashtags strategically, you can effectively boost your social media presence and connect with the right audience for your business.

Let's talk hashtags

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