If you’ve ever wondered why you couldn’t follow hashtags on Instagram, you’re not alone. Luckily, the reasons behind this issue are not as complicated as they may seem. In this article, we’ll delve into the topic and provide you with all the information you need to resolve this problem. So, let’s get started!
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Unveiling the Mystery of Instagram’s Hashtag Issue
Hashtags play a vital role in expanding your Instagram audience, increasing engagement, and reaching your target audience. However, if you’re unable to follow a hashtag, you miss out on all the benefits they offer. So, why does this happen? Let’s find out.
Are You Shadowbanned on Instagram?
One of the main reasons why users fail to follow hashtags on Instagram is because they are shadowbanned. Shadowbanning prevents anyone who isn’t already following you from seeing your account or your content through hashtags. It’s a frustrating situation that restricts your growth potential.
To check if you’re shadowbanned, post something with uncommon hashtags and try to find your post under those hashtags from an account you don’t follow. If your posts don’t appear, it’s likely that you’ve been shadowbanned.
Tips to Avoid Getting Shadowbanned
If you’re fortunate enough to not be shadowbanned, it’s important to take steps to prevent it in the future. Here are some quick tips:
- Avoid using third-party apps for scheduling posts.
- Stay away from platforms that promise to increase your follower count.
- Don’t spam comments or direct messages.
- If you follow and unfollow accounts, do so within the projected limit.
- Avoid any activity that violates Instagram’s terms and conditions.
Common Reasons and Solutions for Instagram’s Hashtag Issue
Now that we’ve covered shadowbanning, let’s explore other common reasons why you might not be able to follow hashtags on Instagram.
1. Using Banned Hashtags
Instagram blocks hashtags that violate its rules, and using any banned hashtag can result in all your other hashtags being restricted as well. Some hashtags are permanently blocked, while others might be temporarily blocked due to spam or user reports.
To fix this issue, check if your hashtags are banned before using them. Remove any banned hashtags from your posts and consider using hashtag tools to check the impact on your account’s visibility.
2. Account Type
The type of account you have on Instagram can also affect your ability to follow hashtags. Private accounts limit your reach since only your followers can see your posts on location and hashtag pages. If you have a small account and want to grow with hashtags, it’s best to switch to a public account.
To make your profile public, follow these simple steps:
- Open the Instagram app on your smartphone.
- Tap your profile picture to access your profile.
- Tap the three horizontally stacked lines in the upper-right corner, then tap “Settings.”
- Select “Privacy” and then “Account privacy” under “Connections.”
- Toggle the “Private account” button to the left and tap “Change” in the pop-up box.
3. Inconsistent Hashtag Usage
Inconsistency in your posting frequency can also impact your ability to follow hashtags. If you post sporadically, the Instagram algorithm may not show your content randomly, resulting in limited reach.
To fix this issue, determine a posting frequency that you can manage consistently. Whether it’s five posts per week or three posts per week, being consistent helps your followers know when to expect fresh content and increases engagement.
4. Using Broad Hashtags
While using broad hashtags can help you reach a wider audience, they might not lead to increased engagement or new followers. To attract a more engaged audience, it’s better to use hashtags specific to your industry or niche.
By using niche hashtags, you’ll reach users with a genuine interest in your content. This can lead to higher engagement rates and the potential to turn followers into customers.
5. Irrelevant Content and Hashtags
If the subject of your photo doesn’t match the hashtags you’re using, it can be a reason why you can’t follow hashtags. Instagram users expect to see content related to the keyword they searched for, and if they find posts that don’t match, they may report them as inappropriate.
To fix this issue, make sure to use hashtags that match the subject of your visual content. Avoid using random keywords or popular hashtags that aren’t relevant to your post.
Final Thoughts
The inability to follow hashtags on Instagram can be frustrating, but understanding the reasons behind it can help you resolve the issue. In this article, we’ve covered the common causes and provided solutions for each one. If you’re still facing this problem after trying the fixes mentioned, don’t hesitate to contact the Instagram support team for expert assistance.
Remember, using hashtags effectively on Instagram can significantly increase your engagement and reach. So, make sure to follow the tips and guidelines in this article to maximize your success on the platform.