Mastering the Instagram Algorithm in 2023: What Hawaii Businesses Need to Know

In the ever-evolving world of social media, staying on top of algorithm changes is crucial for businesses looking to maintain and grow their online presence. For Hawaii businesses, where visual content naturally thrives, understanding the latest Instagram algorithm updates can make a significant difference in your social media success.

Key Algorithm Changes in 2023

Instagram has introduced several important changes to its algorithm in 2023:

• Original Content Priority: Instagram is now heavily favoring original content. This means content that you create yourself, rather than reshared or reposted content, will get more visibility.
• Engagement Time Factors: The algorithm now considers how long users engage with your content, not just likes and comments. Videos that keep viewers watching until the end will be prioritized.
• Cross-Platform Sharing Impact: Content that's created on Instagram first (rather than being reposted from TikTok or other platforms) receives preferential treatment.
• Interest-Based Discovery: Content is increasingly matched to users based on their previous engagement patterns, making niching down more important than ever.

What This Means for Hawaii Businesses

Hawaii businesses have a unique advantage when it comes to creating engaging, original content. With beautiful scenery, vibrant culture, and distinctive products, you have all the ingredients for Instagram success. Here's how to leverage these algorithm changes:

1. Showcase Authentic Hawaii Experiences

The algorithm's preference for original content means that authentic, location-specific content will perform exceptionally well. Showcase your business in the context of Hawaii's natural beauty, integrate local culture, and highlight what makes your location special.

2. Optimize Your Video Strategy

With the algorithm favoring longer view times, create Reels and videos that capture attention from the start but also encourage complete viewing. Hawaii's stunning visuals are perfect for creating captivating video content that viewers will watch all the way through.

3. Create Platform-Specific Content

Rather than cross-posting the exact same content across multiple platforms, create Instagram-specific content. This might mean filming vertical for Instagram first, then adapting for other platforms, rather than the reverse.

4. Engage Authentically with Your Community

The algorithm continues to reward active community engagement. As a Hawaii business, you can build community around shared appreciation for the islands, local events, and cultural celebrations.

Practical Implementation Tips

• Post when your local Hawaii audience is most active (test different times to find your sweet spot)
• Use location tags and Hawaii-specific hashtags to increase discoverability
• Create content series that showcase different aspects of Hawaii that relate to your business
• Respond quickly to comments and messages to boost engagement signals
• Collaborate with other local businesses for wider reach and community building

Measuring Your Success

With these algorithm changes, it's important to look beyond simple like counts. Track these metrics instead:

• Save rate and share rate (these are higher-value engagement signals)
• Average watch time on video content
• Profile visits and website clicks
• Follower growth rate
• Reach and impressions compared to engagement

By understanding and adapting to Instagram's 2023 algorithm updates, Hawaii businesses can create content strategies that not only reach more people but also build meaningful connections with their target audience. The key is leveraging what makes your Hawaii business unique while following the technical requirements of the platform.

Need help implementing these strategies for your Hawaii business? Contact our team at Sunny Day Socials for a customized approach to mastering the Instagram algorithm in 2023 and beyond.