Hey salon owners! Instagram has spilled the beans on their 2023 algorithm, and we're here to break it down into bite-sized, actionable tips for you. Ready to take your salon's Instagram game to the next level? Grab your coffee and a note pad and let's dive in!

Edit your videos in-app:

Instagram doesn't like it when you use external editing tools like CapCut, TikTok, Final Cut, or Premiere Pro. Stick to in-app editing (even though it can be a pain). Despite its limitations, try to explore the native features Instagram offers, such as filters, text overlays, and trimming. Keep an eye out for improvements coming to the platform, and remember - practice makes perfect!

Avoid the TikTok watermark:

Instagram's algorithm hates TikTok watermarks. To share your TikTok videos without the watermark, paste the video link into SnapTik and re-upload to Instagram. Keep showcasing your creativity and unique style on both platforms, but make sure to keep Instagram happy by avoiding those pesky watermarks.

Post daily to your feed:

Gone are the days of posting 2-3 times a week. This will be a big adjustment for many, but will be necessary to get to the next level. Share your latest hair creations, salon updates, or client testimonials! Plan your content ahead of time to keep it consistent and high-quality. You can do it – consistency is key! To help you out, we will be producing a mini guide on what to create/post based on the day of the week - so be on the lookout for that if you are a Salon Hub community member!

Go vertical with your videos:

Ditch square and landscape videos. The algorithm now favors vertical 9:16 videos only. Show off those stunning hair transformations in full-screen glory! Capture before-and-after transformations, tutorials, or behind-the-scenes action in your salon suite with this format. Your followers will love the immersive experience.

Hashtags – Less is more:

Limit yourself to 3-5 hashtags per post to avoid being seen as spammy by the algorithm. Instead, focus on crafting engaging captions with relevant search terms. The algorithm now prioritizes captions over hashtags. Try incorporating popular hair trends, styling techniques, or product names into your captions. Remember, a little personality goes a long way!

Post 5-6 times a day on your stories:

Keep your audience engaged by posting to your stories throughout the day. Aim for 2 in the morning, 2 around lunchtime, and 2 in the evening. Share quick daily updates, hair tips, client highlights, or even a sneak peek at a new product or service. Too few, and you're not active enough; too many, and you're spammy. Balance is essential!

Engage with comments:

Reply to as many comments as possible on your posts. This drives the original commenter back to your post and gives you brownie points with the algorithm. Use this opportunity to create a rapport with your clients and potential customers. Let them feel heard and appreciated - it's great for building loyalty!

There you have it, salon owners! With these 7 tips, you will be well-equipped to boost your salon's presence on Instagram in 2023. Embrace the changes, and watch your salon thrive on the platform. And don't worry, we've got your back! As we mentioned, keep an eye out for our upcoming helpful guides to help you navigate and master these changes. Happy posting!