The algorithm isn’t your enemy—it’s just misunderstood.
It has one job, and once you understand it, creating content that gets seen becomes a whole lot easier.
Every platform’s rules may shift, but the core principle stays the same—and when you work with it instead of against it, your reach grows naturally.
The Algorithm’s One Simple Goal
From Instagram Reels to LinkedIn posts, every social media algorithm has the same mission: to keep users happy and engaged on the platform for as long as possible.
That’s it. No secret conspiracy to hide your posts—just a sorting system designed to curate the most valuable and engaging content for each person. To succeed, you don’t need to “beat” it; you need to create content it recognizes as beneficial to humans.
What the Algorithm Sees as “Good Content”
Algorithms measure value through user behavior. While likes are fine, these three actions carry far more weight:
- Conversation: Comments, replies, and shares show that your post sparked discussion.
- Connection: Saves tell the algorithm your content is so valuable that people want to revisit it later.
- Consistency: Showing up regularly trains the platform to trust you as a reliable content source.
How to Create Content the Algorithm Loves
1. Create Conversation Starters
Don’t just post a statement—ask a question, run a poll, or share a bold opinion that invites responses.
Tip: Turn a quiet LinkedIn page into an active discussion hub simply by ending each post with, “Agree or disagree?”
2. Make It “Savable”
Checklists, quick tips, resource lists, or quotes people want to reference later are all prime save-worthy content.
Tip: Create carousel-style posts on Instagram titled something similar to “5 Quick Fixes You Can Do Today.”
3. Use New Features Early
Platforms always push their latest tools—Reels, polls, interactive stickers—so using them can give your reach a temporary boost.
A Note on Trends: When to Jump In
While your core strategy shouldn’t be chasing every trend, ignoring trends completely could mean leaving opportunity on the table. A trend is a conversation starter that the algorithm is already primed to boost. The key is to participate selectively and authentically.
How to spot the right trend:
- Does it align with your brand’s personality? (A perfect example for us was the ‘moody ChatGPT dog photo’ trend—it was a fun, on-brand way to show off our mascot, Stark!)
- Can you add your own unique value or perspective?
- Is it something your ideal audience will actually enjoy?
Think of trends as a tactical bonus—a fun way to supplement your consistent, value-driven content but still show that there’s a real human who is staying current behind your brand.
Quick-Action Algorithm Checklist
Before you post, ask yourself:
- Does my content invite conversation?
- Is there something worth saving?
- Am I using a feature the platform is boosting right now?
- Am I posting on a consistent schedule?
Our Final Thoughts
The algorithm rewards generosity, not tricks. Stop worrying about pleasing a machine—focus on delighting your human audience. If your content sparks conversation, provides value worth saving, and shows up consistently, the algorithm will reward you without you even trying.
When you win with people, you win with the algorithm—every single time.
