Social Media Algorithms Explained: Here's what you need to know...

In the fast-paced world of social media, algorithms dictate what content gets seen, by whom, and what gets lost in the noise. As an equine business or brand, understanding these ever-changing algorithms will be the key to maximising reach, engagement, and conversions. In this blog, we’ll break down how social media algorithms work and share actionable strategies to stay ahead of the curve.

Strategies for social media growth - all working with the infamous algorithm.

What Are Social Media Algorithms?

Social media algorithms are automated computer systems that determine and rank the hierarchy of what content appears in users' feeds. Rather than showing posts in chronological order, platforms like Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and LinkedIn use algorithms to prioritise content based on relevance, engagement, and user behaviour.

Each platform has its own unique ranking factors, but they all share the same goal: to keep users engaged for as long as possible. That means your content needs to be valuable, engaging, and tailored to your audience.

How Do They Work?

1. Instagram & Facebook (Meta Platforms)

Key Factors:

• Engagement (likes, comments, shares, saves)

• Video watch time (for reels and stories)

• Direct interactions (DMs, replies)

• Posting consistency

How to Work with the Algorithm:

• Post engaging content that encourages saves & shares (e.g., carousel posts, reels, interactive stories)

• Use trending audio and hashtags to increase visibility

• Reply to comments & DMs quickly to boost your post’s ranking

• Experiment with Reels & Video—Meta prioritises short-form videos

Our Instagram Page

2. TikTok

Key Factors:

• Watch time & replays (how long people stay on your video)

• Engagement (comments, likes, shares)

• Trending sounds & challenges

• User behavior (interests & interactions)

How to Work with the Algorithm:

• Hook viewers in the first 3 seconds

• Use high-quality, fast-paced visuals

• Jump on trending sounds early

• Encourage user interaction (ask questions, reply to comments with videos)

3. LinkedIn

Key Factors:

• Dwell time (how long users read your post)

• Comments (especially within the first hour)

• Valuable, professional insights

• Personal storytelling

How to Work with the Algorithm:

• Share personal experiences + industry insights

• Ask thought-provoking questions to drive comments

• Use native documents & carousels (LinkedIn favors in-app content)

4. X (formerly Twitter)

Key Factors:

• Recency & trending topics

• Engagement (likes, retweets, replies)

• Active participation in conversations

• Consistent tweeting

How to Work with the Algorithm:

• Post concise, high-value tweets

• Engage in trending hashtags & discussions

• Use Twitter Threads to provide in-depth insights

• Retweet relevant equine industry posts to stay visible

How to Stay Ahead of Social Media Algorithms

1. Create Quality, Engaging Content – Focus on shareable, valuable posts for the equine sector

2. Stay Consistent – Regular posting signals reliability to the algorithm

3. Encourage Interaction – Ask questions, use polls, and reply to comments with meaningful replies

4. Leverage Video & Stories – Most platforms prioritise video content

5. Adapt to Trends Quickly – Use trending sounds, hashtags, and formats (as long as they are relevant to the equine industry)

My Final Thoughts

Social media algorithms are constantly evolving, but the core strategy always remains the same: engage your audience with valuable content.

By understanding how each platform works and tailoring your content accordingly, you can stay ahead of the curve and maximise your social media success.