Hashtags Are Dead: How to Actually Grow Your Social Media Pages in 2024

After all the changes we’ve seen with social media algorithms and strategy this year, it’s time to reflect on the truth haunting social media across platforms: Hashtags are dead. Once celebrated as the ultimate tool for boosting reach and engagement, hashtags have virtually all of their power. In this post, we’ll explore why hashtags are fading and how you can effectively grow your social media presence.

The Decline of Hashtags: Why They Don’t Work The Same Way Anymore

• Algorithm Changes: Social media platforms are continuously evolving their algorithms to enhance user experience. These updates often prioritize content relevance and engagement over mere hashtag use, making it increasingly difficult for posts to be discovered solely through hashtags.
• Over-Saturation: The sheer volume of hashtags being used has created an overcrowded marketplace. This makes it challenging for your content to stand out and be discovered amid the multitude of posts.
• Decline of Hashtag Surfing: Users are no longer as inclined to “hashtag surf” or browse through content using specific hashtags. Additionally, if someone follows a hashtag, that content may not appear in their feed due to algorithmic changes. This means relying solely on hashtags for visibility can lead to missed opportunities for engagement.

If hashtags are “dead,” what should you do to breathe new life into your social media presence? Here are four strategies to help you thrive:

1. Leverage Short-Form Video Content

Create engaging short-form videos for platforms like Instagram Reels, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts. Facebook and Instagram, in their attempt to catch up with TikTok, are pumping out recommended videos to users. LinkedIn just added a video tab to their mobile app. Focus on storytelling, showcasing behind-the-scenes content, or offering quick tips that resonate with your audience. Authenticity and relatability are key. The more engagement you get on a video, the more people the app will show it to, since the app is seeing it as good content that keeps people engaged and scrolling.

2. Optimize Captions with SEO

Incorporate relevant keywords into your captions instead of focusing on the hashtags. Research phrases within your niche to improve your posts’ visibility in search results. A well-optimized caption can lead to greater exposure, allowing you to reach potential followers who are genuinely interested in your content.

3. Engage with Your Audience

Foster community on your pages. Respond to comments, ask questions, and encourage discussions on your posts. Consider hosting Q&A sessions or live streams to connect in real-time and strengthen relationships. Building a loyal community around your brand will result in increased engagement and trust, making your audience more likely to share your content.

4. Tag Brands and Events in Your Posts

When creating content related to events or collaborations, be sure to tag the brands involved. This increases the chances they’ll see your post, engage with it, or even repost it, exposing your profile to their audience and potentially bringing you new followers. This simple act of tagging can significantly expand your reach and enhance your credibility within your niche.

Something to Note:

While hashtags may not carry the same power as they once did, they can still play a role in your SEO strategy. Including relevant hashtags in your posts can help improve discoverability and connect your content to broader topics, but it’s essential to recognize that they are no longer the primary driver of engagement they used to be. We can no longer rely on hashtags for growth.

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