The Algorithm Whisperer
Unsplash: Photo by Souvik Banerjee
I felt invincible when I hit the post button for the first time. My bookish video was flawless, with smooth transitions, eye-catching color schemes, and the most up-to-date audio. However, it remained lifeless for days on end. Twenty likes. A handful of comments
It wasn’t always this way. My bookstagram grew and prospered three months ago. My engagement was outstanding, my popularity surged, and followers poured in. However, something happened that changed everything. Did The algorithm cause this problem? Was it My content or did I do something that caused My organic reach to drop after boosting it?
I spiraled. After devoting several hours to learning how to increase my Instagram reach, I found that there are numerous helpful tips such as posting at the right time of day, using SEO-friendly captions, engaging with others, posting less frequently, and posting more often. Nothing worked. My engagement flatlined
While examining my analytics once more, I had a thought that caught me off guard. What would happen if I stopped trying to follow the algorithm and started using storytelling in everything? Not just captions, but everywhere
Instead of posting simply to post, I altered my approach. After questioning What could possibly prevent someone from scrolling and showing interest, I began creating mini stories with a hook, conflict, and final resolution
As an alternative to a generic “Books IL oved This Month” prompt, I attempted:: My latest book discoveries! Despite reading five books in the past month, only one book made me cry at 2 A M. L et’s discuss it
My concentration was on numbers, causing me to forget the reason behind my connection. I stopped viewing my followers as an audience and began seeing them as friends. I inquired more, shared behind-the-scenes difficulties, and answered every comment like I texted a best friend
Subsequently, something mystical took place. My followers engaged back. Real conversations, not just a double-tap. I received a lot of bookish debates in my DMs, with recommendations and exclamations of “OMG, same!”
I opted to experiment with a theory by recording myself in unfiltered footage ranting about naysayers ‘books, hoping that the lack of aesthetics would convince others otherwise. No fancy editing. No perfect lighting. I’m just being myself, a little too passionate, making huge gestures
What is the video I’ve been watching for months? It’s My most talked-about one
The event was not instant, but I observed a change. My reach climbed. My posts were returned to Explore. The sharing of my reels was not limited to viewing, as they were also being shared
Most importantly, I was eager to start something again
If you’re experiencing an Instagram slump, I suggest avoiding algorithmic changes. Tell stories. Build relationships. Prior to anything else, remember the reason for your decision to begin
Your people are present in the area. Give them something that’s authentic and tangible!