Feed the Algorithm, Don’t Fight It

Once upon a time in the golden age of Instagram and Facebook, follower count was the holy grail. The more followers you had, the more people you could reach. Brands chased influencers with big numbers like kids chasing ice cream trucks. But fast forward to today? That follower count is more like a trophy on the shelf—nice to look at, but not necessarily doing much for you anymore.

In this age of ever-evolving algorithms, your reach doesn’t depend on how many followers you have—but how many followers (and non-followers!) you can actually reach. And spoiler alert: that number is increasingly decided by how well you play the content game.

Let’s dive into why chasing follower counts is outdated, how reach has taken center stage, and how to boost yours by befriending the algorithm like it's your quirky, unpredictable bestie.

Vanity Metrics vs. Valuable Metrics

Follower count is a vanity metric—it looks good, it might open doors, but it doesn’t guarantee engagement, conversions, or community. On the other hand, reach is a valuable metric—it tells you how many unique eyeballs actually saw your content, regardless of whether they follow you.

Why the shift?

Because platforms like Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and even Pinterest now operate like matchmakers. They don’t just show your post to your followers. Instead, they say:  
“Hmm, let’s test this with a few people. If they like it, we’ll show more. If they don’t, we’ll quietly bury it under a dog meme.”

Let’s Talk About That Algorithm (aka Your Frenemy)

We often blame the algorithm like it’s a digital villain. But the truth? The algorithm isn’t out to get you. It’s just picky—like a cat. You just have to learn what makes it purr.

The algorithm’s mission is simple: keep people scrolling.

If your content helps the platform do that, you win. If not, well... there’s always the “close friends” story.

So How Do You Increase Reach in 2025?

Here’s your no-fluff guide to feeding the algorithm what it loves:

Post Consistently (Not Constantly)

You don’t need to post 10 times a day. You need to post consistently so the algorithm knows you’re active and worth distributing. Pick a rhythm you can actually keep. Start with 3-4 quality posts a week, and stick to it like your morning coffee.

Use the Power of Micro-Content

Algorithms are obsessed with micro-content: short, punchy, snackable pieces that spark quick reactions.

Try this:

Reels under 30 seconds  

Tweet-style captions with a strong hook  

Carousels with “saveable” tips

Each piece is a breadcrumb that leads people back to your page—and maybe into your DMs if you’re spicy enough.

Hook, Line, and Scroll: Nail Your First 3 Seconds

Whether it’s a video or a caption, if you don’t hook them in the first three seconds, you’ve already lost them.

Examples:

“You’re posting wrong—here’s why.”  

“This one tip doubled my reach overnight.”  

“If you’re a small biz owner, read this now.”  

Algorithms measure watch time and scroll-stopping power, so grab attention fast.

Engage Like a Human, Not a Billboard

Comment back. Ask questions. Slide into your audience’s DMs. Be social on social media.

Platforms reward reciprocity—when you engage, they push your content more.

Golden Rule: Treat every comment like a high-five. Respond with energy.

Double Down on What Works

Stop reinventing the wheel every post. If a piece of content performs well, repurpose it:

Turn a Reel into a carousel
Turn a carousel into a caption
Turn a caption into a blog
Turn a blog into a podcast clip

The algorithm loves a content remix. Keep the flavor going.

Go Beyond Your Followers (Hashtags, Collabs, Trends)

Want reach? You have to leave the cosy circle of your followers.

Do this:
Use niche hashtags that aren’t overly saturated.
Collaborate with other creators or brands for dual exposure.
Hop on trends early, but make them relevant to your brand voice.

Remember: Algorithms are trying to find new audiences for you—but only if you give them a reason.

Use ALL the Platform Tools

If Instagram drops a new sticker, use it. If LinkedIn offers polls, try them. If TikTok drops a new sound—well, dance if you dare.

Platforms reward early adopters of their features. It’s like being the teacher’s pet, but cooler.

 From Follower Chaser to Content Scientist

Treat your content like an experiment. Your job isn’t to rack up followers—it’s to create content that:

Makes people feel something

Starts conversations

Keeps people coming back

When you do that? The algorithm opens the gates.

Stop Complaining, Start Creating

Yes, the algorithm changes often. Yes, it can be annoying. But you know what? You’re a creator, not a complainer. The faster you adapt, the faster you grow.

So don’t fight the algorithm. Don’t fear it. Feed it—and make it work for you.

Because in 2025, the size of your reach speaks louder than the size of your follower count.

And darling? You’re way more than just a number.

Want help strategising your next content move?