2. Keywords Over Hashtags

Write captions the way your customers search. Instead of relying on #RetailTips, try “Looking for fall outfit inspo?” or “Best gift ideas for teachers.”

Platforms now scan your captions and voiceovers for relevant keywords to surface your content.

3. Location Is Everything

Always tag your business location – every single post. Local posts get higher engagement and show up in neighborhood feeds.

Pro tip: Also tag nearby landmarks or events to catch people searching those locations.

4. Tag People and Brands Strategically

Tag staff, happy customers, local influencers, and brand partners. Use Instagram Shopping to tag products for free in-feed discovery.

Example: “Styled with @LocalJewelsCo for a full fall vibe.”

5. Create Engagement Triggers

Ask questions, run polls in Stories, and share behind-the-scenes content that invites reactions. The platforms reward posts that generate interaction quickly – especially in the first hour.

6. Leverage User-Generated Content

Reshare customer photos or videos. UGC not only builds trust, it boosts your reach. People are more likely to engage with content that feels real and relatable than polished brand content.

So… What About Hashtags?

Hashtags still matter – but not for discovery the way they used to. Today, their value lies in categorizing your content for your audience and reinforcing your brand identity.

Use them intentionally:

• Create a branded hashtag for your store or seasonal campaigns, like #[YourShopName]Style
• Treat them like folders or labels: for vibes, products, or recurring series
• Keep them minimal (3-7 MAX), and place them in the caption – not a giant block afterthought.

They help your followers (and you) navigate your content library. That’s their job now.

Your Simple Growth Formula

Here’s a sustainable posting strategy you can implement today:

1. Post one video or Reel (even a simple pan of your product or timelapse)
2. Write a keyword-rich captionwith terms your customers search
3. Ask one question to spark replies or saves
4. Tag your location and any partners or collaborators
5. Use 3–7 hashtags for organization (not reach)
6. Post at your best-performing time

Final Thoughts

Organic growth in 2025 isn’t about outsmarting the algorithm – it’s about creating content that connects. Focus on engagement over reach, keywords over hashtags, and authenticity over trends.

You don’t need to spend money to get seen. You just need to understand how discovery really works now.

If you’re tired of chasing algorithms and want a content strategy that actually works – CMA’s here for it. From video planning to caption writing to full-blown strategy, we help small businesses grow without the guesswork.