What do you think? Many of you must have felt the same thing: Instagram only promotes big creators and ignores smaller ones.
And we have been asked various times by many influencer brands and creators. The same question.

Does Instagram really favor profiles with more likes and followers?

For that, we really need to know how the Instagram algorithm really works. The
Instagram algorithm is all over the talk nowadays

The reason: (you also must have heard a lot) whatever people talk about or go through in life, or even think this Instagram shows me an exact relatable reel, but how is it even possible?

So the Instagram algorithm completely works like a matchmaker; it connects the right content with the right audience by analyzing their activity. Instagram decides what you see on your feed, what reels you will see and even your suggested accounts too, based on how you interacted before.

What does it want in return?

More and more watch time, users are scrolling for as long as possible. Then of course it favours if the content gets like, shares, comments and reactions.

The reality: followers and likes do matter

As they are not just for Numbers, they are a reflection of something bigger that is engagement and trust.

Followers = the more followers. You will have a bigger opportunity to achieve success as you will get a bigger potential audience, your own community, and your own people who follow you and see you. However, if your followers see or interact with your post or content, then Instagram will promote your content to more users.

Likes = your content appeal: When people like your post, it gives a signal to Instagram that your content is not just seen by the audience, but also resonates with them. More likes are not just good for numbers but also for more relevancy in the eyes of the algorithm

Yes, the Instagram algorithm does take these into account. As Instagram wants people to spend more time on the app to keep the audience engaged, its main goal is to promote content that keeps people engaged, is shared by people, or gets commented on by people.

This means higher engagement = higher visibility
If you already have a good follower base, your chance of getting engagement naturally goes up
If your post gets more likes and comments early on Instagram, it is more likely to push them to a wider audiences.

Concluding this-

Likes and followers act as a boost to your content’s reach and along with this you also should focus on

• Posting consistently
• Ask questions, run polls, and add CTAs
• Collaborate with other creators as well
• Maintaining the interaction and connection with your followers.

Likes and followers also work as social proof, and eventually you have to maintain them. Of course it benefits you; however, following the above-mentioned things will make your followers stay.

Hence, in simple words, Likes and followers are a sign that people value your content. When combined with quality posts and authentic engagement they tell Instagram. This creator is worth promoting so if you are looking for long-term growth on Instagram build relationships, create value, and let likes and followers do their part.