How to Be Sure You’re Using Hashtags Effectively

You’ve got your business, you’ve completed your branding, your website is up and running, and now it’s time to join social media. You open Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn and are instantly overwhelmed with hashtags.

How do you know what to use? Do you use general hashtags like #instagood or do you create your own branded hashtag? Which one will work better? How many do you use? If this sounds like you, keep reading! Our social media consultant Northern Virginia is breaking down the all the #secrets to using hashtags effectively!

What’s the Best Number to Use?

This one can be tricky. Instagram allows 30 hashtags on your post, but this doesn’t mean that you need to use all 30! We recommend using up to three in the caption of your post. If you want to use more – great! But put them in the first comment of your post, so that what you’re trying to say isn’t lost in a sea of hashtags.

Find the Best Hashtags For You

The second step to using hashtags effectively is finding the best ones for you. The easiest way to do this is to look at the accounts you already follow, or to find accounts similar to yours, to see what they’re using.

You can also brainstorm with your social media consultant or management team and then enter them into the Instagram search bar. As you type, related hashtags will pop up and could inspire you! Another tip? Scroll to the bottom of the search results – you’ll find more niche ideas there!

Use Your Branded Hashtags!

Once you’ve created your own, it’s time to use your branded hashtags effectively. 

How?  

It’s easy! 

Be sure you use them in every relevant post you make. Be sure to include your most general/most used hashtags in your Instagram bio, along with your call to action. This way, when your customers want to praise you in their own post, they can use your hashtags! 

Let’s Work Together!

Social Media Consultant Northern Virginia

If you’re ready to dive headfirst into the hashtag pool, or you have more questions, contact us today! At BlueHuki, we have experience as a social media consultant in Northern Virginia work with our clients to create a clear social media marketing plan that includes creating branded hashtags. We have the expertise you need to propel your business forward.