In the wild world of social media, likes have been viewed as the currency of popularity for ages – until recently, that is.
Picture this:
You’re scrolling through your Instagram feed, double-tapping on posts left and right, when suddenly you notice something weird. Some posts no longer show those little heart icons indicating the number of likes.
Wait, what?
Yup, Instagram has gone incognito with its likes!
Now, some Instagram users argue that likes have lost their mojo. They say it’s all about genuine connections and real interactions.
And, honestly, they’re not wrong:
In a world obsessed with comparison and chasing numbers, hiding likes can be a breath of fresh air. It shifts the focus from the double-tap race to building meaningful relationships and authentic Instagram engagement.
But here’s the tea:
Likes still matter!
They might not be the end-all-be-all – but they do have their perks.
For Instagram influencers, brands, and businesses, likes can be a real thumbs-up from the algorithm gods. The more engagement you have – including likes and comments – the higher the chances of your content reaching a wider audience.
That is to say:
Likes on Instagram still pack a mighty punch when it comes to boosting your visibility.
How To Get More Likes on Instagram: Our Top 10 Tips & Strategies That Will Make Your Feed Pop!
Alright, our fellow Instagram enthusiasts, it’s time to unlock the secrets of getting more likes on one of our favorite social media platforms.
Get ready for a dose of creative wisdom as we dive into these awesome tips and strategies you can start incorporating today!
1. Picture-Perfect Magic
Instagram is a visual platform – so it all starts with high-quality photos!
Now’s the time to get up close and personal with your subject and explore interesting angles that make your Instagram photos stand out from the crowd.
And if you’d like to take your photography game up a notch, consider exploring advanced techniques, like the rule of thirds, the so-called leading lines, and using negative space effectively.
These techniques can add depth and visual interest to your images, making them irresistible to your followers’ eyes.
If you run an Instagram business account, you should also consider creating some stunning carousel posts. They’re among the most effective content types on the app, outperforming both images and videos when it comes to engagement.
Oh, and don’t be afraid to play with different photo-editing apps to enhance your photos further. A little editing magic can make the images on your Instagram page pop and catch the attention of those scrolling through their feeds.
So, grab your phone or camera – and unleash your inner photographer. Trust us; the Instagram post likes will come raining down!
2. Filters To The Rescue
Here’s another piece of advice for our Insta-savvy peeps:
Never underestimate the power of filters. They can turn a “meh” photo into a real masterpiece.
Instagram offers a plethora of filters both for Instagram Story and feed photos, each with its own unique vibe.
So, take the time to explore various filters and find the ones that align with your brand and aesthetic.
That said, don’t get too carried away; the goal is to enhance your photos, not overpower them. Adjust the intensity of the filter to strike the perfect balance and maintain the authenticity of your images.
While we’re at it, we’d like to remind you that consistency – as in, using the same filter – is key when it comes to posting content:
Find a filter or editing style that aligns with your overall aesthetic and visual identity and stick with it to create a cohesive and recognizable feed.
3. Write Engaging Captions
We’re not going to sugar-coat the truth:
Ain’t nobody got time for boring captions under your Instagram posts.
So, ditch the clichés – and get your wordplay game on point!
One of the best ways to write more compelling captions for your Instagram posts is to incorporate storytelling elements. Paint a vivid picture with your words – creating a narrative that captivates your audience and transports them into the moment you’re describing.
You can also pose engaging questions or invite other users to share their experiences related to the post. It’s a simple way to spark conversation and motivate them to leave comments and engage with your content.
Furthermore, don’t be afraid to experiment with different caption lengths:
While short and punchy captions can be effective, longer captions can provide an opportunity to share more detailed stories or insights.
Oh, and don’t forget to include relevant emojis; they’ll add a touch of personality and visual appeal to your captions.
4. Relevant Hashtags
ich have a higher search volume and wider reach, and niche hashtags, which cater to a more specific audience.
This balance will help you tap into broader conversations – while also getting to your target audience.
That said, while adding hashtags to your Instagram posts can work wonders, you don’t want to go overboard and turn your caption into a hashtag soup.
In other words:
Keep it clean and focused by using around 10 to 15 hashtags per post.
Furthermore, consider using brand hashtags that are unique to your brand or campaign. These hashtags will make it easier for your followers to find your Instagram content while also creating a sense of belonging and encouraging user-generated content.
#Winning
5. Engage, Engage, Engage
Don’t be a wallflower on the Instagram app. It’s time to unleash your inner social butterfly and engage with your audience like never before!
Responding to comments on your posts is a no-brainer – but take it a step further:
Go beyond a simple “Thank you” and try to spark conversations. Ask follow-up questions, express genuine interest in their thoughts, and create a welcoming space for dialogue.
It’s a great way to get more engagement, strengthen your relationship with your Instagram followers, and build a genuine community on social media.
But don’t stop there:
Show some love to other brands or creators by actively engaging with their content. Leave thoughtful comments on other people’s posts, share your genuine appreciation, and strike up conversations.
The more genuine interactions you have, the more likely it is that others will reciprocate – and get you more likes on Instagram.
Another engagement strategy you can try is joining relevant discussions in your niche:
Dig through trending hashtags or the Explore feed to find posts that align with your interests and expertise and leave insightful comments, provide value, and connect with like-minded individuals.
That’ll position you as an active and knowledgeable member of the community, expanding your reach and attracting new followers who resonate with your content.
6. Timing Is Everything
Want your post to shine like a superstar?
Get your timing skills ready because posting at the right time can significantly impact your overall engagement and the number of likes on Instagram.
There’s no universal best time to post; understanding your audience’s behavior and preferences is key. That’s why you should take a peek into your Instagram Insights to analyze when your followers are most active and gain valuable insights into the optimal posting times for your specific audience.
We recommend trying different posting times and monitoring the engagement levels of your posts. You might notice some patterns where certain times – or days – consistently yield better results.
It’s important to strike a balance between posting when your audience is most active and ensuring that you post content that stands out amidst the competition, though. So, find your sweet spot and adjust your posting schedule accordingly.
On that note, keep in mind that consistency matters:
Once you’ve identified the best posting times, try to post consistently according to that schedule. That essentially “trains” your followers to expect new content from you at specific times, increasing the likelihood of them actively engaging with your posts.
You can also use scheduling tools to plan and automate your posts, ensuring a steady flow of engaging content – even on those super-busy days.
7. Collaboration Nation
You know the saying, “Teamwork makes the dream work“?
Well, it applies to Instagram, too.
Join forces with fellow creators or brands in your niche to amplify your reach and increase your chances of getting more likes.
Collaborations come in various forms; let’s explore a few exciting options:
Cross-promotion is a fantastic way to introduce your content to new audiences.
Partner with another creator or brand and create content together. It could be a joint photo shoot, a collaborative video, or even a guest blog post.
By sharing each other’s content and tagging one another, you tap into each other’s follower bases, exposing your content to a fresh set of eyes that might be more inclined to hit that heart button.
Hosting challenges and giveaways together can be a huge game-changer. Everyone loves free stuff, after all. So, pick a theme or topic that aligns with your niche – and invite your followers to participate.
It’s a great way to boost engagement and attract new Instagram accounts that will discover your content through collaboration.
Ensure that the giveaway rules encourage participants to engage with both accounts by liking, commenting, and sharing the posts involved. That way, you maximize your chances of gaining more likes and potential followers.
Oh, and don’t forget about shoutouts!
Give a shoutout to another creator whose content you admire and encourage your followers to check them out. The creator might reciprocate the gesture – exposing their audience to your content.
It’s a win-win situation where both parties get the opportunity to gain more exposure and likes.
8. Instagram Stories
Instagram Stories can be a game-changer for garnering likes and engagement. Stories offer a unique and ephemeral way to connect with your followers, providing glimpses into your daily life and behind-the-scenes moments.
Here’s how you can weave storytelling magic into your Stories:
- Share authentic and relatable moments
Stories are the perfect Instagram post format to showcase the more candid side of your life. Share funny incidents, personal challenges, or even a behind-the-scenes look at your creative process. By being real and vulnerable, you create a sense of connection with your audience, making them more inclined to engage and show their appreciation through likes.
- Utilize the interactive features
Instagram Stories come packed with interactive stickers and features that encourage engagement. Use polls, quizzes, and question stickers to encourage your followers to interact and share their thoughts. It not only boosts engagement but provides valuable insights into your audience’s preferences and interests, too.
- Create suspense and anticipation
Stories have a temporary nature, so take advantage of this by creating a sense of anticipation. Tease upcoming content, product launches, exciting announcements, or even an Instagram takeover. It’s a great way to build excitement and encourage your followers to keep an eye out for your posts, ready to shower them with likes when they’re finally revealed.
9. Go Live & Thrive
Instagram Live is a powerful tool for real-time engagement with your followers.
Make the most of your live streams with these tips:
- Promote your live session
Ready to go live? Then be sure to build anticipation by promoting your upcoming live session through Stories, posts, and captions. Tease the topic or theme to create excitement and ensure your followers are aware of the event.
- Prepare an engaging agenda
Outline key points or topics to cover during your live stream. It will keep you focused and ensure a smooth flow. That said, you still want to embrace spontaneous interactions and questions from viewers for an interactive experience.
- Interact with your audience
Host Q&A sessions, encourage viewers to share thoughts, and participate in polls. Respond to comments in real-time, personalizing your interaction. It’s a fantastic way to foster a sense of community and boost engagement – including likes.
- Save and repurpose your live streams
Save the video to your Instagram Stories for followers who missed it. Repurpose the content for other platforms – YouTube and IGTV, for example – to extend its reach and attract more likes and engagement.
10. Analyze & Adapt
Last but not least, keep an eye on your Instagram analytics to understand what content resonates the most with your audience and adapt your content ideas and strategy accordingly.
Here’s a quick rundown:
- Spot the winners
Dive into your Instagram Insights and find out what content clicks with your audience. Look for themes, styles, or types that get high engagement. Whether it’s epic travel pics, motivational quotes, multiple images in one, or hilarious memes, give ’em more of what they clearly love.
- Know your crowd
Go beyond content and dig into audience demographics and behavior. Find out who they are, where they hang out, and when they’re most active. Tailor your own content and post videos and photos when they’re all ears. Keep an eye on likes, comments, and shares to see what floats their boat.
- Mix it up
Don’t be afraid to shake things up and try new tricks. Experiment with posting times, hashtags, and different content formats. It’s a constant game of tweaking and evolving based on what works best, and it will definitely get you more followers and likes on Instagram posts.
- Listen up and engage
Your audience is full of bright ideas. Pay attention to comments and messages, incorporate their suggestions, and get them involved in your content creation. Building a connection and showing you value their input will make them more likely to double-tap that heart.
How NOT To Get Instagram Likes: A Word About Buying Likes
Okay, let’s have a heart-to-heart talk about a not-so-cool tactic that some folks resort to – buying likes on Instagram.
It might sound tempting to inflate the like count on your Instagram posts overnight and become an instant sensation. But here’s the thing:
It’s a strategy that’s as flimsy as a house of cards in a windstorm.
Buying likes and Instagram followers is a big no-no in the social media world.
Why?
Well, let’s start with the fact that those likes are as artificial as the unicorn frappuccino at your local coffee shop.
They come from automated bots and low-quality accounts that are just programmed to hit that like button. They’re not real people who genuinely appreciate your Instagram post or have any interest in what you’re sharing.
It’s like having a room full of mannequins for an audience – nice to look at but utterly hollow and meaningless.
Here’s where things get even worse:
Instagram’s algorithm isn’t fooled that easily. It’s smart enough to sniff out fake engagement like a bloodhound on the trail. And if it detects suspicious activity, it could penalize your Instagram account and push your posts farther down the feed – resulting in even less organic engagement.
In other words, it’s a double whammy of disappointment.
Could you imagine the embarrassment and awkwardness when other users from your own follower count start questioning the sudden spike in likes – only to find out it’s all smoke and mirrors?
Trust us; authenticity is way cooler than a bunch of purchased hearts.
Instagram Likes FAQ
Q: Why am I not getting likes on Instagram?
If you’re not getting the likes you expected, a few things might be going on. First, take a peek at your content. Is it eye-catching, engaging, and aligned with your audience’s interests? Quality matters! Next, consider your engagement game. Are you actively interacting with your followers and other accounts, leaving thoughtful comments, and spreading love? Remember, engagement is a two-way street. So, show some Instagram love – and it might just come back to you!
Q: What’s the best time to post to get more Instagram likes?
While there’s no universal answer, there are some general guidelines. Think about your target audience; when are they most likely to be scrolling through their feeds? It could be during lunch breaks, after work, or even late at night. Try various posting times and keep an eye on your Instagram Insights to uncover the sweet spot for maximum engagement. Remember, timing is key – but don’t forget about creating killer content that people can’t resist liking!
Q: What posts get the most likes on Instagram?
While there’s no foolproof formula, some types of Instagram posts tend to attract more likes. Behind-the-scene photos and stunning visuals – like beautiful landscapes and delicious food – always catch people’s attention. But here’s the real secret – be true to yourself and your niche. Authenticity and passion shine through and can attract more than just a few likes.
Q: How many likes are good on IG?
Well, it depends! There’s no magic number that defines a “good” amount of likes. It varies depending on factors like your follower count, engagement rate, and niche. Focus on building a loyal community, nurturing meaningful connections, and seeing consistent growth in your likes over time. Remember, quality beats quantity any day!
Q: How many likes to go viral on IG?
There’s no fixed number of likes that guarantees virality; it also takes a hefty dose of luck, great content, and a sprinkle of timing. So, instead of obsessing over the numbers, focus on creating shareable, unique, and high-quality content – and the Instagram gods might just grant you that viral moment!
Q: What does the order of Instagram likes mean?
Ah, the enigmatic order of likes! The sequence in which likes appear under your posts is still a well-guarded Instagram secret. Some say it’s based on the timing of engagement, while others believe it’s influenced by the relationships between the likers and the poster. Regardless, don’t lose sleep over the order; it’s the love and appreciation that matter most.
How To Get More Likes On Instagram: Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – 10 killer tips for how to get more likes on Instagram in 2023! It’s time to put those tips and strategies into action and watch your account thrive.
But hey, why stop at thriving when you can soar to new heights?
If you’re ready to take your Instagram game to the next level, join our flock and sign up for Flock Social. With our expert guidance and cutting-edge tools, you’ll be on the fast track to Instagram stardom.
Don’t let your Instagram dreams be just dreams.
Join Flock Social today – and let’s work together to make those dreams a reality.
