Don’t make these hashtag mistakes!

#1 The hashtags that you’re using, do not actually match your content.

When someone searches for a hashtag, they’re clearly wanting to see related posts. So if someone searches #sunset, and your photo of a restaurant meal comes up, do you think they’re going to click on it? This is essentially a waste of a hashtag.

#2 Not diversifying your hashtag groups.

For example, if you use quite specific hashtags where they all have under 100 posts, that means no one is searching for them. Therefore, your post won’t be seen through hashtags. Or if you use really broad hashtags e.g #food or #dinner, your posts still won’t be seen by many as so many people are posting under these hashtags every minute. Your post will simply get lost. Don’t just type in a bunch of hashtags, actually research each one and their size.

#3 Continuously using the same hashtag groups.

If you use the same hashtags over and over again (especially if you post regularly - like everyday), Instagram might temporarily block your account as this behaviour mimics bots and it could think you’re spam.

#4 Not using LOCAL hashtags.

As food reviewers, this is absolutely crucial! Our main target audience are people who live in our local area, who are going out to eat and looking for new places to visit. Therefore, if we’re not using hashtags such as #melbournefoodies or #newyorkbrunch we’re not tapping into the local market who we ideally want to follow us.

#5 Not using them!

Hashtags are essential in content discovery and growth. If anyone tells you that they don’t look ‘cool’ or it’s better that you leave them out - don’t listen to them. Although in my personal opinion, hashtags do look better and make for a more clean post when you put them in the first comment on your post (instead of in the caption).