Struggling to crack Instagram’s algorithm? Well, folks, grab your notepads because Instagram’s head honcho Adam Mosseri just dropped another golden nugget for creators regarding Instagram’s algorithm overhaul.

Instagram’s Holy Trinity of Engagement
Mosseri’s latest video series breaks down how Instagram’s algorithms really work. There are three golden tickets to the Instagram fame factory: Watch Time, Likes, and Sends. Surprisingly, comments, although traditionally thought to be the crown jewels of engagement, didn’t even make the cut. While comments may indirectly contribute to Watch Time metrics, their reduced algorithmic significance marks a shift from traditional engagement metrics. 

Differential Impact Based on Audience Type
When it comes to reaching your followers through connected content, Likes are your BFF. But if you’re aiming to reach new audiences’ feeds via unconnected content, Sends are your secret weapon. Content that generates high forwarding rates signals broader appeal, prompting Instagram to expand distribution through Explore and recommendations.

Looking Forward
These insights provide a clearer framework for measuring content performance. Rather than tracking general engagement metrics, creators should focus specifically on: Average Watch Time, Likes per Reach, and Sends per Reach.

Bottom line? Instagram’s algorithm is finally showing us its cards, and it turns out it’s less about gaming the system and more about creating content that actually makes people stop scrolling through their feed. 

So, next time you’re planning your content strategy, remember: Watch Time is your north star, Likes are your cheerleader, and Sends are your wingman. Everything else? Just algorithmic sprinkles…

*P.S. If Mosseri’s next video reveals the key to viral success was actually just posting cat videos all along, I’m going to need a moment.*

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