Followers hashtags instagram 2021

If you’re aiming to understand how to leverage hashtags for follower growth on Instagram in 2021, the core principle revolves around discoverability and engagement, not simply accumulating numbers.

Remember, true success lies in the barakah blessings from Allah, not just fleeting trends.

To authentically boost your reach and connect with relevant audiences, consider a strategic approach that prioritizes content quality and genuine interaction.

For practical tools to refine your growth marketing strategy, you might find some excellent resources and smart solutions for optimizing your content reach and engagement right here: 👉 Free Growth Marketing Tool. This tool can help you analyze what truly resonates, guiding you towards more effective and permissible growth strategies.

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The Foundation of Instagram Hashtags: Beyond Just “More Followers”

Understanding Instagram hashtags in 2021 wasn’t just about throwing a bunch of popular terms onto your post and hoping for the best.

It was a nuanced game of visibility, audience targeting, and content categorization.

While many influencers and brands were scrambling for “follower hashtags,” the real strategy was about being discovered by people who genuinely cared about what you were sharing.

Chasing followers for the sake of numbers often leads to vanity metrics and an unengaged audience, which, from an Islamic perspective, can be a distraction from more meaningful pursuits and a waste of valuable time. Edit picture size for instagram

The goal should always be to provide value and connect with a community that benefits from your content.

What Instagram Hashtags Were Really For in 2021

In 2021, Instagram’s algorithm heavily utilized hashtags to categorize content and deliver it to relevant users. This wasn’t just a simple keyword match.

It involved understanding user behavior, engagement patterns, and the context of the content.

• Content Categorization: Hashtags acted as labels, helping Instagram understand what your post was about. For example, #halalrecipes immediately tells the algorithm that your post is about halal cooking.
• Discoverability: Users could follow hashtags, making your content appear in their feeds even if they didn’t follow you directly. This was a massive opportunity for organic reach. A study by Sprout Social in 2021 indicated that posts with at least one hashtag received 12.6% more engagement than those without.
• Audience Targeting: By using niche and relevant hashtags, you weren’t just aiming for general visibility. you were aiming for visibility among specific groups of people who were already interested in that topic. For instance, #IslamicArt would attract art enthusiasts with an interest in Islamic themes.

The Problem with “Follower Hashtags” and Superficial Growth

The term “follower hashtags” often implies a shortcut or a tactic aimed solely at inflating follower counts without genuine engagement.

This approach is problematic for several reasons, both practically and ethically. Fit whole picture on instagram without border

• Irrelevant Audiences: Using generic, high-volume hashtags like #followforfollow or #likeforlike might attract a burst of new followers, but these are often accounts solely interested in reciprocal follows, not your content. They rarely engage, and their presence skews your analytics, making it harder to understand your true audience.
• Algorithm Disfavor: Instagram’s algorithm is smart. It prioritizes genuine engagement over superficial metrics. Accounts that use spammy or irrelevant hashtags can be penalized, leading to reduced reach and even shadow-banning. In fact, studies show that accounts using overly generic hashtags often see lower engagement rates compared to those using niche, relevant ones.
• Waste of Time and Effort: Investing time in chasing numbers through artificial means distracts from creating valuable content and building authentic connections. This is a crucial point from an Islamic perspective: time is a blessing and should be utilized for beneficial endeavors, not for chasing fleeting worldly metrics that have no lasting value. Focus on what truly benefits you and others.
• Ethical Concerns: Many “follower growth” schemes border on deception, promising quick results through automation or fake engagement. As Muslims, we are encouraged to be truthful, transparent, and upright in all our dealings. Engaging in such practices goes against the principles of honesty and integrity.

Strategic Hashtag Selection: Quality Over Quantity

In 2021, the common misconception was that more hashtags equaled more reach.

However, the data suggested a more nuanced approach.

While Instagram allowed up to 30 hashtags per post, strategic selection was far more impactful than simply maxing out the limit.

The focus shifted from quantity to relevance and a diverse mix of hashtag types.

The Three Tiers of Hashtags for Optimal Reach

A balanced hashtag strategy in 2021 involved a mix of broad, niche, and branded hashtags. Find similar hashtags

This multi-tiered approach helped reach various audience segments, from those broadly interested in a topic to highly specific communities.

• Broad Hashtags High Volume: These are general terms with a large number of posts e.g., #islam, #muslims, #deen. They offer wide visibility but come with high competition. Use these sparingly, perhaps 2-3 per post, to tap into a broader audience. While they bring exposure, the engagement quality might be lower.
• Niche/Specific Hashtags Medium Volume: These are more specialized terms relevant to your specific content or community e.g., #IslamicParenting, #HalalTravel, #MuslimCommunity. These are crucial for reaching genuinely interested audiences. They have lower competition and higher engagement rates. Aim for 5-10 of these per post. A study by Later.com in 2021 found that using niche hashtags led to significantly higher engagement rates compared to generic ones.
• Branded/Community Hashtags Low Volume: These are unique to your brand, campaign, or specific community e.g., #YourBrandName, #MuslimEntrepreneurJourney, #SeekingKnowledge. They foster community and brand loyalty. These hashtags are excellent for tracking user-generated content and building a loyal following. Include 1-3 of these.

Researching Effective Hashtags: Tools and Techniques

Effective hashtag selection wasn’t guesswork.

It involved research and understanding what your target audience was already engaging with.

• Instagram’s Search Bar: Start typing a keyword in the search bar under the “Tags” tab. Instagram will show you related hashtags and the number of posts associated with them. This is a great way to discover both broad and niche options.
• Competitor Analysis: Look at what hashtags successful accounts in your niche are using. Don’t just copy. analyze which ones seem to be driving engagement for them.
• Influencer Hashtags: If there are influencers in your field, study their hashtag usage. They often have a pulse on what resonates with the community.
• Third-Party Tools: Several tools, both free and paid, were available in 2021 to help with hashtag research. Tools like Tailwind which you can explore via 👉 Free Growth Marketing Tool, Later, or Sprout Social offered hashtag suggestions, performance tracking, and analytics to help you optimize your strategy. These tools often provide data on hashtag popularity and estimated reach.
• Audience Insights: Pay attention to the comments and direct messages you receive. What language are your followers using? What topics are they discussing? This can inspire new, relevant hashtags.

Hashtag Placement and Best Practices: Maximizing Visibility

Once you’ve selected your hashtags, where you place them and how you use them can significantly impact their effectiveness. Facebook 1080×1350

In 2021, common practices emerged that aimed to optimize both user experience and algorithmic performance.

In-Caption vs. First Comment: The Great Debate of 2021

There was ongoing debate about whether to place hashtags directly in the caption or in the first comment.

Both methods had their proponents, and both were viable, though the “first comment” approach gained popularity for aesthetic reasons.

• In-Caption: Placing hashtags directly in the caption made them immediately visible. Some argued this was better for the algorithm as they were parsed directly with the content. However, a long block of hashtags could make the caption look cluttered and less appealing to the human eye. To mitigate this, many users would use a few line breaks or dots to push the hashtags down.
• First Comment: This became a popular method because it kept the caption clean and readable. Instagram still recognized hashtags placed in the first comment for discoverability purposes, provided they were posted immediately after the main post. This was often preferred by brands and creators who wanted their primary message to stand out. Studies in 2021 suggested that both methods were equally effective for reach, so the choice often came down to aesthetic preference.

The “Sweet Spot” for Number of Hashtags

While Instagram allowed up to 30 hashtags, the optimal number was often debated.

In 2021, various studies and expert opinions suggested that more wasn’t always better. Create hashtag generator

• No Magic Number: There wasn’t a single “perfect” number. Some studies suggested that 9-11 hashtags yielded the best engagement, while others found success with a higher number, as long as they were relevant. A 2021 study by TrackMaven indicated that using 11+ hashtags could lead to a 77% higher engagement rate compared to using only 1 or 2.
• Relevance Reigns: The overarching consensus was that relevance trumped quantity. It was better to use 5 highly relevant hashtags than 20 generic ones. The algorithm was designed to prioritize quality and user experience.
• Experimentation is Key: The best approach was to experiment with different numbers of hashtags for your specific niche and audience, then analyze the performance using Instagram Insights to see what resonated best.

General Best Practices for Hashtag Usage

Beyond placement and quantity, several other best practices contributed to effective hashtag strategy in 2021.

• Vary Your Hashtags: Don’t use the exact same set of hashtags for every post. Rotate them, discover new ones, and adapt them to the specific content of each post. This prevents your content from looking spammy and helps you reach different segments of your audience.
• Check Hashtag Performance: Regularly review your Instagram Insights to see which hashtags are driving the most impressions and engagement. This data is invaluable for refining your strategy.
• Avoid Banned Hashtags: Instagram occasionally bans or restricts certain hashtags often those associated with spam or inappropriate content. Using banned hashtags can hurt your reach or even lead to shadow-banning. Always double-check by searching for a hashtag. if it doesn’t appear in the search or shows a limited number of posts, it might be restricted.
• Incorporate Hashtags into Stories: Hashtags in Instagram Stories either visible or hidden under stickers also increased discoverability on the Explore page. This was an often-underutilized feature in 2021.

Niche-Specific Hashtag Strategies: Tailoring Your Approach

The beauty of Instagram’s hashtag system in 2021 was its adaptability.

What worked for a fashion influencer might not work for a Quran reciter.

Tailoring your hashtag strategy to your specific niche was paramount for attracting the right audience and fostering genuine community growth, rather than just chasing numbers.

From an Islamic perspective, this aligns with the principle of wisdom in action – doing things purposefully and effectively for the intended audience. Feed ig size

Hashtags for Islamic Content Creators

For those producing Islamic content, be it Quranic recitation, Islamic art, dawah, or lifestyle content, hashtags were crucial for reaching the global Muslim community and those interested in learning about Islam.

• Core Islamic Terms: #islam, #muslim, #allah, #quran, #deen, #ummah. These are broad but essential for general visibility.
• Specific Branches/Topics: #IslamicArt, #ProphetMuhammad, #Sunnah, #Hadith, #MuslimLife, #IslamicParenting, #HalalFood, #Dawah, #Ramadan, #Eid. These attract more focused audiences.
• Community & Location: #MuslimCommunity, #Muslimahs, #IslamicQuotes, #MuslimahFashion, #MuslimMom. If relevant, location-specific hashtags like #MuslimsOfNY or #IslamInUK can be effective.
• Reflective & Motivational: #IslamicReminder, #DailyDhikr, #Jannah, #Sabr, #Tawakkul. These resonate with users seeking spiritual upliftment.
• Examples of Niche Islamic Hashtag Sets circa 2021:
  • For Quran Recitation: #QuranRecitation, #Tilawat, #HolyQuran, #QuranKareem, #IslamVids, #MuslimsWorldwide.
  • For Islamic Art: #IslamicGeometricArt, #ArabicCalligraphy, #MuslimArt, #IslamicPattern, #TraditionalIslamicArt, #ContemporaryIslamicArt.
  • For Dawah/Reminders: #IslamicDawah, #DailyIslamicReminder, #SeekKnowledge, #Truthseeker, #Guidance, #IslamicLectures.

Hashtags for Small Businesses and Entrepreneurs

Small businesses and entrepreneurs on Instagram in 2021 leveraged hashtags not just for reach, but for lead generation, brand building, and connecting with local customers.

• Product/Service Specific: #HalalCosmetics, #ModestFashion, #IslamicGifts, #CustomJewerly Note: For jewelry, emphasize modest, ethically sourced, and simple designs, avoiding ostentation #HandmadeHalal, #IslamicEducation.
• Industry Hashtags: #SmallBusinessOwner, #EntrepreneurLife, #SupportLocalBusiness, #EthicalBusiness, #MuslimOwnedBusiness.
• Location-Based Hashtags: #YourCitySmallBiz, #LocalBusinessName, #ShopLocal. These are crucial for brick-and-mortar stores or service providers.
• Branded Hashtags: Unique hashtags for your brand, product lines, or campaigns.
• Examples of Small Business Hashtag Sets circa 2021:
  • For a Modest Fashion Brand: #ModestWear, #HijabFashion, #IslamicClothing, #EthicalFashion, #MuslimahStyle, #AbayaStyle, #ModestyMovement.
  • For a Halal Food Business: #HalalFoodie, #HalalCuisine, #MuslimEats, #HalalRestaurant, #FoodNearMeHalal, #SupportHalal.

Hashtags for Personal Brands and Influencers

Personal brands and influencers in 2021 focused on building a community around their personality and niche, using hashtags to establish authority and connect with like-minded individuals.

• Niche Expertise: #DigitalMarketingTips, #ContentCreatorLife, #HealthyMuslimLifestyle, #ProductivityHacks, #TravelMuslima.
• Community Building: #YourCommunityName, #BehindTheScenes, #DailyVlog, #AuthenticMe.
• Trending & Challenge Hashtags: Participating in trending challenges e.g., #RamadanChallenge could provide a temporary boost in visibility, but always ensure they align with your values and message.
• Personal Branding Hashtags: Unique hashtags that define your personal brand or catchphrases.
• Examples of Personal Brand Hashtag Sets circa 2021:
  • For a Productivity & Islamic Lifestyle Influencer: #MuslimProductivity, #IslamicGrowth, #TimeManagementTips, #DailyRoutineMuslim, #SpiritualGrowth, #MindfulLiving.
  • For a Muslim Travel Blogger: #HalalTravel, #MuslimTraveler, #ExploreWithMe, #AdventureMuslim, #IslamicTourism, #TravelInspiration.

By tailoring your hashtag strategy, you not only increase your chances of being discovered but also attract an audience that is genuinely interested in your content, leading to higher engagement and more meaningful growth.

The Role of Engagement and Content Quality in Hashtag Performance

In 2021, simply using the “right” hashtags wasn’t enough. Dimensions of instagram square

Instagram’s algorithm increasingly prioritized engagement signals.

If your content didn’t resonate with the audience who discovered it via hashtags, its reach would quickly diminish.

This highlights the fundamental truth that valuable content, combined with genuine interaction, is the cornerstone of sustainable growth.

As Muslims, we are taught to excel in whatever we do and to produce work that is beneficial and high-quality.

How Engagement Amplifies Hashtag Reach

When a post performed well initially, Instagram’s algorithm would show it to a wider audience, including more users following the relevant hashtags. Dimensions for ig post

This virtuous cycle was critical for maximizing hashtag impact.

• Early Engagement is Key: The first hour after posting was often crucial. High levels of likes, comments, saves, and shares signaled to Instagram that the content was valuable.
• Saves and Shares: These were considered powerful signals in 2021. When someone saved your post or shared it with a friend, it indicated a deeper level of interest and value. A post with a high save rate was more likely to be shown to more users via hashtags.
• Comments and Conversations: Genuine comments, especially longer ones, were highly valued. They showed that the content sparked a conversation, indicating its relevance and appeal. Responding to comments promptly also encouraged further interaction.
• Dwell Time: The longer users spent viewing your content whether it was a video or a carousel post, the more positively Instagram viewed it. This emphasized the importance of creating captivating and informative content.

The Inseparable Link: Content Quality and Hashtag Success

Without high-quality content, even the most perfectly optimized hashtags would fail to deliver sustainable results.

Content was king, and hashtags were the intelligent distribution system.

• Visually Appealing Content: High-resolution images and well-edited videos were non-negotiable. Instagram is a visual platform, and blurry or poorly composed visuals immediately turned users away. In 2021, over 90% of Instagram users reported following a business on the platform, largely due to visual appeal.
• Valuable and Relevant Information: Whether it’s educational, inspirational, entertaining, or practical, your content must provide value to your target audience. For Islamic content, this means accurate information, beneficial reminders, or genuine reflections.
• Clear Call to Action CTA: Encouraging interaction through clear CTAs e.g., “What’s your favorite verse?”, “Share your thoughts in the comments!”, “Link in bio for more!” directly boosted engagement metrics.
• Consistency: Regularly posting high-quality content kept your audience engaged and signaled to the algorithm that your account was active and reliable. Consistency also applies to the quality and relevance of your hashtags.

Creating Content That Resonates for Islamic Audiences

For Islamic content creators, “quality” takes on a deeper meaning.

It’s not just about aesthetics but also about authenticity, benefit, and adherence to Islamic principles. Crop for instagram post

• Authenticity: Share genuine experiences, reflections, and knowledge. Avoid superficiality or sensationalism.
• Benefit Manfa’ah: Does your content provide benefit to the viewer? Does it educate, inspire, or remind them of Allah? This is paramount in Islam.
• Accuracy: If sharing Islamic knowledge, ensure it is accurate and referenced correctly from authentic sources. Misinformation is a serious matter.
• Modesty and Respect: Ensure your visuals and language are modest and respectful, reflecting Islamic values. This includes avoiding unnecessary podcast, immodest imagery, or content that promotes materialism excessively.

By focusing on genuine engagement and consistently delivering high-quality, valuable content, your hashtag strategy in 2021 transformed from a mere tactical endeavor into a powerful engine for authentic community building.

Analyzing Hashtag Performance: Iteration and Optimization

In the dynamic world of Instagram in 2021, a “set it and forget it” approach to hashtags was a recipe for stagnation.

Successful accounts constantly analyzed their performance, iterated on their strategies, and optimized their hashtag usage based on data.

This cyclical process of experimentation, measurement, and adjustment is key to sustained growth.

It’s akin to seeking knowledge and striving for excellence, a continuous journey of improvement. Change video aspect ratio for instagram

Utilizing Instagram Insights for Hashtag Data

Instagram’s built-in analytics tool, Insights, was a treasure trove of data for professional accounts.

It provided crucial information about how your posts were performing and, more importantly, how people were finding your content.

• Accessing Post Insights: For each post, you could tap “View Insights” to see detailed metrics.
• Reach by Source: Within Insights, the “Impressions” section showed you where your reach came from. Critically, it broke down impressions by “From Hashtags.” This metric directly told you how many people saw your post because of the hashtags you used.
• Engagement Metrics: While not directly tied to specific hashtags, overall engagement likes, comments, saves, shares on posts with certain hashtag sets indirectly indicated their effectiveness. If a post with a particular set of niche hashtags had high engagement, it suggested those hashtags were attracting the right audience.
• Profile Visits: Insights also showed profile visits stemming from a post. If posts with specific hashtags led to a higher number of profile visits, it indicated that those hashtags were effectively drawing in interested users.

Tools for Advanced Hashtag Analytics

While Instagram Insights provided fundamental data, several third-party tools offered more advanced analytics and competitive intelligence, crucial for a deeper dive into hashtag performance.

• Tailwind and similar scheduling tools: Tools like Tailwind, which you can explore through this link 👉 Free Growth Marketing Tool, offered detailed hashtag analytics. They could track the performance of specific hashtags, suggest new ones based on your content, and even provide insights into when your audience was most active, enabling optimal posting times for maximum hashtag exposure.
• Sprout Social, Later, Iconosquare: These platforms offered comprehensive analytics dashboards that included hashtag performance, allowing users to track which hashtags contributed most to reach, engagement, and follower growth over time. They often provided comparative data, showing how your hashtags performed against industry benchmarks.
• Rival IQ for competitor analysis: While not exclusively for hashtags, tools like Rival IQ allowed you to monitor competitors’ hashtag strategies and see which of their hashtags were generating the most engagement, offering valuable competitive insights.

Iteration and Optimization Strategies

Based on the data gathered, the next step was to refine your hashtag strategy.

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This iterative process was continuous, adapting to algorithm changes and audience shifts.

• A/B Testing Hashtag Sets: Experiment with different combinations of hashtags across similar posts. For example, use one set for a few posts, then a slightly different set for the next few, and compare their “From Hashtags” impressions.
• Remove Underperforming Hashtags: If certain hashtags consistently yield low impressions or bring in irrelevant traffic, remove them from your rotation.
• Discover New Niche Hashtags: Keep an eye on trending topics, industry discussions, and what your audience is talking about. Use Instagram’s search feature to find new, emerging niche hashtags.
• Revisit Hashtag Research: Periodically e.g., quarterly conduct a fresh round of hashtag research to ensure your chosen tags are still relevant and performing well. Hashtag popularity can fluctuate.

By diligently analyzing your hashtag performance and continuously optimizing your approach, you could ensure that your content was reaching the most receptive audience possible, leading to more meaningful interactions and sustainable growth, all while upholding the Islamic principle of striving for excellence in all your endeavors.

Ethical Hashtag Practices and Avoiding Prohibited Methods

While the pursuit of followers on Instagram in 2021 was a common goal, it was crucial to distinguish between legitimate growth strategies and those that were deceptive, unethical, or even harmful.

From an Islamic perspective, integrity, honesty, and avoiding deception are paramount.

This extends to how we interact online and build our presence. Check hashtags for instagram

Many “follower growth” tactics fall into categories that are impermissible, either due to their deceptive nature or their association with activities that distract from what is truly beneficial.

Prohibited and Discouraged Hashtag Practices

Certain practices, often touted for quick follower gains, are generally discouraged or outright prohibited due to their deceptive nature or their association with undesirable outcomes.

• “Follow-for-Follow” & “Like-for-Like” Hashtags: Hashtags like #f4f, #l4l, #followme, #instafollow were prevalent. While they might bring in follower numbers, these followers are typically only interested in reciprocity, not your content. This creates a highly unengaged audience, which is a vanity metric and offers no real benefit. From an Islamic viewpoint, it’s a form of superficiality and chasing fleeting worldly gains.
• Buying Followers/Likes: This is unequivocally prohibited. Buying followers or likes is a form of deception and fraud. These are almost always fake accounts or bots, offering zero engagement and only harming your account’s reputation and algorithmic standing. It’s a clear violation of honesty and integrity.
• Spamming Irrelevant Hashtags: Using popular but irrelevant hashtags e.g., posting about Islamic reminders and using #travel to gain visibility is deceptive. It misleads users and can lead to your content being flagged as spam by the algorithm. This is a waste of time and can actively harm your reach.
• Hashtags Associated with Immoral Content: It is absolutely imperative to avoid any hashtags linked to podcast, movies, entertainment that promotes promiscuity or immorality, dating, gambling, forbidden financial practices riba, or any other haram activity. Engaging with or promoting such content, even through hashtags, is highly discouraged and can lead to sinful outcomes. Our online presence should reflect our Islamic values.
• Automation and Bots for Engagement: Using bots to automatically follow, like, or comment on other accounts with the sole purpose of gaining attention is deceptive and often against Instagram’s terms of service. It generates artificial engagement and is not a genuine way to build community.
• Hashtags Promoting Materialism/Ostentation: While some hashtags might be related to luxury goods or excessive display of wealth, it’s important to use discretion. Islam encourages modesty and discourages ostentation showing off. Focus on content that promotes beneficial knowledge, ethical consumption, or community building, rather than pure materialism. For example, instead of #LuxuryLifestyle, consider #ModestLiving or #SimpleLife.

Why These Practices Are Detrimental Beyond Just Algorithm Penalties

The harm caused by these practices extends far beyond just algorithmic penalties.

• Erosion of Trust: Deceptive practices erode trust with your audience. Once followers realize your engagement is artificial, they will disengage, and your credibility will be lost.
• Lack of Authentic Community: True influence and impact come from a genuinely engaged community that values your content. Artificial growth tactics prevent the formation of such a community.
• Misdirection of Effort: Time and resources spent on artificial growth could be invested in creating valuable content, building real relationships, and contributing positively to the community.
• Spiritual Implications: From an Islamic perspective, engaging in deception, wasting time on fruitless endeavors, and promoting what is harmful or superficial goes against the core tenets of our faith. Our actions, both online and offline, should be geared towards seeking Allah’s pleasure and benefiting humanity.

Better Alternatives: Halal and Sustainable Growth

Instead of chasing numbers through deceptive means, focus on authentic and sustainable growth methods that align with Islamic principles.

• Focus on Value-Driven Content: Consistently create high-quality, beneficial content that resonates with your target audience.
• Genuine Engagement: Actively engage with other accounts in your niche. Leave thoughtful comments, respond to DMs, and participate in community discussions.
• Collaboration: Partner with other like-minded accounts for joint projects or shout-outs. This allows you to tap into new, relevant audiences authentically.
• Cross-Promotion: Share your Instagram content on other platforms where you have an audience.
• Patience and Consistency: Real growth takes time and consistent effort. Trust the process and focus on building a strong foundation.
• Seek Allah’s Blessings Barakah: Ultimately, true success and growth come from Allah. Focus on doing things with sincerity and for His sake, and you will find blessings in your efforts.

By upholding ethical standards in your Instagram strategy, you not only build a more sustainable and impactful online presence but also ensure that your efforts are pleasing to Allah and beneficial to your community. Best trending hashtags instagram

Beyond Hashtags: A Holistic Instagram Growth Strategy 2021 Perspective

While hashtags were a crucial component of Instagram’s discoverability in 2021, they were never a standalone solution for growth.

A truly effective strategy integrated hashtags within a broader framework that prioritized content, engagement, and audience understanding.

From an Islamic perspective, this holistic approach aligns with the concept of Ihsan – striving for excellence and completeness in all our endeavors.

Content is Still King and Queen: Visuals, Value, and Variety

Even with perfect hashtag usage, subpar content would not retain followers.

In 2021, Instagram was heavily investing in various content formats, and creators who leveraged these saw better results.

• High-Quality Visuals: Crisp, clear images and videos were non-negotiable. Poor lighting, pixelation, or amateur editing instantly reduced credibility.
• Carousel Posts: These became highly engaging in 2021. They allowed creators to share multiple images or videos, tell a story, or break down complex information into digestible slides. Data showed carousel posts often had higher engagement rates than single images.
• Reels Short-Form Video: Launched in 2020, Reels quickly became a dominant force in 2021. Instagram actively pushed Reels content, making it a prime channel for viral reach. Short, engaging videos were key.
• Instagram Stories: Daily Stories kept your audience engaged and were excellent for behind-the-scenes content, polls, Q&As, and direct interaction.
• Live Videos: Live streams offered a raw, authentic connection with your audience, fostering community and allowing real-time interaction.
• Value Proposition: Every piece of content should aim to educate, inspire, entertain, or solve a problem for your audience. For Islamic content, this often means providing reminders, sharing beneficial knowledge, or showcasing Islamic beauty.

Genuine Engagement: Building a Community, Not Just an Audience

Engagement was the currency of Instagram in 2021. It signaled to the algorithm that your content was valuable and fostered a loyal community.

• Respond to Comments & DMs: Acknowledging and responding to comments and direct messages showed that you valued your audience. Timely responses were key.
• Proactive Engagement: Don’t just wait for people to come to you. Actively engage with other accounts in your niche – leave thoughtful comments, share their content with credit, and participate in discussions. This builds relationships and brings your account to the attention of new, relevant audiences.
• Ask Questions: In captions, Stories, and Live sessions, ask open-ended questions to encourage conversation.
• Collaborate with Others: Partnering with complementary accounts for joint Lives, co-created content, or mutual shout-outs was a powerful way to tap into new, engaged audiences.
• Host Q&As/Polls: Interactive features in Stories fostered a sense of community and provided valuable audience insights.

Optimizing Your Instagram Profile: Your Digital Shopfront

Your Instagram profile was your digital shopfront in 2021. It needed to be optimized to convert profile visitors who might find you via hashtags into followers.

• Compelling Bio: A concise, clear bio that immediately communicated who you are, what you offer, and who you serve. Include relevant keywords and emojis.
• Clear Call-to-Action in Bio: Tell visitors what you want them to do e.g., “Link to my latest article,” “Shop my modest collection,” “Download my free Islamic guide”.
• Link in Bio Strategy: Use a tool like Linktree or Campsite.bio to host multiple links, allowing you to direct traffic to your website, blog, YouTube channel, or other platforms.
• High-Quality Profile Picture: A clear, recognizable profile picture your face for personal brands, your logo for businesses.
• Highlights: Curate your Stories into Highlights to showcase key aspects of your content, products, or values.
• Consistent Aesthetics: Maintain a consistent visual theme or brand aesthetic across your feed. This creates a cohesive and professional impression.

Leveraging Instagram Features Beyond the Feed

In 2021, Instagram was more than just a photo-sharing app.

Utilizing its diverse features amplified reach and engagement.

• Explore Page Optimization: A highly engaged post, especially with effective hashtags and strong early engagement, had a higher chance of landing on the Explore page, opening it up to millions of potential new followers.
• Location Tags: For local businesses or events, adding location tags increased discoverability for users searching or browsing content in specific geographical areas.
• Product Tags for businesses: For e-commerce, tagging products directly in posts and Stories allowed users to shop directly, streamlining the customer journey.

By integrating hashtags into this comprehensive strategy, accounts in 2021 didn’t just chase follower numbers.

They built thriving communities, increased brand awareness, and ultimately achieved more meaningful and sustainable growth.

This aligns with the Islamic principle of being wholesome and comprehensive in our efforts, ensuring all aspects of our endeavors are well-considered and executed with excellence.

Staying Ahead: Adapting to Instagram’s Ever-Changing Algorithm Post-2021 Considerations

What worked perfectly in 2021 might have shifted by 2022, 2023, and beyond.

The core principles of content quality, genuine engagement, and strategic hashtag use remain, but the nuances of the algorithm are always in flux.

For Muslims, this adaptability is a lesson in resilience and striving for continuous improvement, much like our journey in seeking knowledge and perfecting our deeds.

The Dynamic Nature of Instagram’s Algorithm

Instagram’s algorithm is a complex system designed to prioritize content it believes users want to see.

This means it’s always learning and adjusting based on user behavior and platform goals.

• User Behavior Drives Priorities: If users spend more time watching Reels, Instagram will prioritize Reels. If they engage more with carousel posts, those get a boost.
• Platform Goals: Instagram’s strategic goals e.g., competing with TikTok, promoting shopping features influence algorithmic priorities. In 2021, the push for video content Reels was a clear example.
• Constant Iteration: Instagram continually tweaks its algorithm with minor and major updates. What constitutes “good engagement” or “relevant content” can subtly shift over time.
• Impact on Hashtags: While hashtags remain a discovery tool, their exact weight in the algorithm, and how they interact with other signals like content type, engagement rate, and account authority, can change.

Post-2021 Trends and Their Impact on Hashtags

Looking beyond 2021, several trends continued to shape how hashtags function and how content creators should approach their strategy.

• Reels Dominance: Reels continue to be a primary discovery engine. Hashtags for Reels are crucial and often benefit from being highly relevant and niche. Shorter, trend-aligned Reels often perform well.
• Audio Trends: For Reels, using trending audio clips often provides an additional boost in discoverability, complementing hashtag efforts.
• SEO on Instagram: Instagram increasingly functions as a visual search engine. Users search for keywords directly in the search bar, not just hashtags. This means including relevant keywords in your captions and even on-screen text in videos became more important. This is a form of passive “hashtagging” through content itself.
• Authenticity Over Polish: While high quality remains important, an overly polished or “corporate” feel sometimes gave way to more authentic, raw, and relatable content. This fosters deeper connections.
• Long-Form Video IGTV/Video Posts: While Reels took center stage, longer-form video still had its place for in-depth tutorials, lectures, or discussions, where hashtags provided context and discoverability for a more dedicated audience.

Strategies for Long-Term Adaptability

To thrive on Instagram in the long run, beyond just 2021, content creators must cultivate an adaptable mindset.

• Stay Informed: Follow reputable social media news outlets, listen to Instagram’s official announcements, and observe successful accounts in your niche.
• Embrace Experimentation: Don’t be afraid to try new content formats, different hashtag strategies, or explore new features. Dedicate a portion of your content to experimentation.
• Analyze Your Own Data: Your own Instagram Insights are your best guide. What works for others might not work for your unique audience. Continuously analyze your “From Hashtags” impressions, engagement rates, and follower growth to identify what’s truly resonating.
• Prioritize Audience Needs: The algorithm’s ultimate goal is to serve users relevant content. If you consistently provide value to your target audience, the algorithm will likely reward you. This involves truly understanding your community and their needs, which is a commendable trait in Islam, serving others for the sake of Allah.
• Focus on Core Principles: Regardless of algorithmic changes, the core principles of creating valuable content, fostering genuine engagement, and building authentic relationships will always remain the bedrock of sustainable growth. Hashtags are a tool to amplify these efforts, not a substitute for them.
• Seek Barakah: Ultimately, true and lasting success comes from Allah. Focus your efforts on creating content that is beneficial, truthful, and aligns with Islamic values. Seek His blessings Barakah in your endeavors, and you will find your efforts fruitful, regardless of superficial worldly metrics.

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the most effective “follower hashtags” on Instagram in 2021?

There weren’t truly “effective” follower hashtags in 2021 if you define “effective” as bringing in genuinely engaged, relevant followers. Hashtags like #followforfollow or #likeforlike often attracted inactive accounts or those only interested in reciprocal follows, leading to vanity metrics rather than real community growth. The most effective strategy was using highly relevant, niche-specific hashtags that connected your content with genuinely interested audiences.

How many hashtags should I use on Instagram in 2021 for maximum followers?

In 2021, Instagram allowed up to 30 hashtags per post.

While some experts suggested using 9-11 as a “sweet spot,” the optimal number varied by niche and content.

The consensus was that relevance was far more important than quantity.

It was better to use 5-10 highly relevant, targeted hashtags than 30 generic ones, to attract genuine engagement rather than just high impression numbers.

Did using popular hashtags like #instadaily or #picoftheday help get more followers in 2021?

While popular, high-volume hashtags like #instadaily or #picoftheday could generate a high number of impressions, they were often too broad and competitive to effectively attract targeted followers in 2021. Your content would quickly get lost in the noise. Niche-specific and medium-volume hashtags were generally more effective for acquiring engaged followers who were truly interested in your content.

What is the best way to find trending hashtags for followers in 2021?

The best way to find trending and relevant hashtags in 2021 was through Instagram’s own search bar under the “Tags” tab, by analyzing competitor accounts, and using third-party tools like Tailwind, Later, or Sprout Social.

These tools provided data on hashtag popularity and suggested relevant options based on your content.

Is it better to put hashtags in the caption or the first comment for follower growth in 2021?

In 2021, both placing hashtags directly in the caption and in the first comment were effective for discoverability.

Many creators opted for the first comment to keep their captions clean and readable, while others preferred in-caption for immediate visibility.

Instagram’s algorithm recognized hashtags in either location, as long as they were posted immediately after the main post.

Did Instagram’s algorithm favor certain types of hashtags in 2021?

Yes, Instagram’s algorithm in 2021 increasingly favored niche, relevant hashtags that brought in genuine engagement.

It also prioritized hashtags associated with new content formats like Reels.

While broad hashtags offered wide reach, those that connected content with highly interested users leading to likes, comments, and saves were more likely to boost a post’s overall performance.

How important were branded hashtags for follower growth in 2021?

Branded hashtags were crucial in 2021 not just for direct follower growth, but for building community and brand loyalty.

They allowed your existing audience to easily find and share content related to your brand, fostering a sense of belonging and encouraging user-generated content, which indirectly helped attract new, engaged followers.

Should I use location-based hashtags for follower growth in 2021?

Yes, if your content or business was location-specific, using location-based hashtags e.g., #halalfoodNYC, #muslimsinLondon was highly effective in 2021. They helped attract local followers who were interested in your offerings within a specific geographical area, leading to higher conversion rates for local businesses.

Can using too many hashtags hurt my follower growth in 2021?

Yes, while Instagram allowed 30 hashtags, using too many irrelevant or spammy hashtags could hurt your follower growth in 2021. It could make your content appear spammy, deter genuine engagement, and potentially lead to your content being downranked by the algorithm, reducing its reach and discouraging real followers.

What is a “shadowban” and how did it relate to hashtags in 2021?

A “shadowban” though Instagram never officially confirmed its existence was a term used in 2021 to describe a situation where an account’s content became less discoverable, particularly through hashtags, without explicit notification.

It was often linked to using banned hashtags, spammy practices, or violating Instagram’s community guidelines.

Using relevant, clean hashtags was a way to avoid this.

Did engagement rate affect how well hashtags performed in 2021?

Yes, absolutely.

In 2021, a high engagement rate likes, comments, saves, shares on a post signaled to Instagram that the content was valuable.

This positive signal would then cause the algorithm to show that post to a wider audience, including more users following the relevant hashtags, thus amplifying the hashtags’ performance.

How did Instagram Reels affect hashtag strategy for followers in 2021?

Instagram Reels became a major discovery engine in 2021. Hashtags on Reels were crucial for reaching new audiences, especially through the Reels tab and the Explore page.

Using relevant, niche hashtags along with trending audio was a powerful combination to maximize reach and potential follower growth from Reels.

Were there any new hashtag features in 2021 that helped gain followers?

In 2021, while no groundbreaking new hashtag features were introduced, the increased emphasis on Reels meant that hashtags used within Reels and on the Reels explore page became a more potent channel for discovery and follower acquisition.

Instagram also continued to improve its internal search functionality, making hashtags more integrated with keyword searches.

How can I track which hashtags are bringing me the most followers in 2021?

Directly tracking which specific hashtags led to new followers was challenging in 2021 as Instagram Insights only showed “Impressions from Hashtags” for a post, not specific follower attribution.

However, you could infer by seeing which posts with specific hashtag sets generated the most “Profile Visits” and then monitoring your follower count after those posts.

Third-party tools might offer more detailed analytics.

Is it useful to create my own unique hashtags for my brand to get followers in 2021?

Yes, creating your own unique branded hashtags was very useful in 2021. While they might not bring in followers from external searches initially, they fostered community, encouraged user-generated content, and made it easy for your existing audience to find and share your content.

This strengthens your brand and can indirectly lead to new followers.

Did using banned or restricted hashtags affect my follower count in 2021?

Yes, using banned or restricted hashtags in 2021 could negatively impact your follower count.

Such hashtags could reduce your content’s visibility, potentially leading to a “shadowban” where your content wouldn’t appear for anyone searching those hashtags, thus hindering organic follower growth. It’s always best to research and avoid them.

What role did audience engagement play in hashtag effectiveness for followers in 2021?

Audience engagement played a critical role.

In 2021, if your content received high engagement likes, comments, saves, shares from users who discovered it via hashtags, Instagram’s algorithm would interpret this as high-quality content.

This would then lead to your post being shown to even more users through those same hashtags, indirectly boosting potential follower acquisition.

Should I change my hashtags for every post in 2021, or use the same set?

It was generally recommended to vary your hashtags for every post in 2021. Using the exact same set repeatedly could look spammy and reduce your reach.

Rotating your hashtags, using a mix of broad, niche, and specific ones, and tailoring them to each post’s content helped reach diverse segments of your audience and kept your strategy fresh.

What was the link between content quality and hashtag performance for gaining followers in 2021?

The link was inseparable.

In 2021, even the most perfectly chosen hashtags wouldn’t help you gain and retain followers if your content was poor.

High-quality, valuable, and engaging content was essential for users to stay on your post, interact, and ultimately decide to follow you after discovering you via hashtags. Hashtags simply provided the discoverability. content provided the reason to follow.

How often should I review my hashtag performance for follower growth in 2021?

It was advisable to review your hashtag performance regularly in 2021, ideally at least monthly or quarterly, using Instagram Insights.

This allowed you to see which hashtags were driving impressions and engagement, enabling you to refine your strategy, remove underperforming tags, and discover new ones that resonated with your audience. Continuous optimization was key.