In partnership with

Let's be honest: talking about algorithms is about as exciting as watching paint dry.

But here's the thing—understanding how these digital gatekeepers work is the difference between shouting into the void and actually being heard by thousands of people.

Today, I'm breaking down the algorithm mystery in plain English and giving you actionable strategies that actually work.

Why Everyone Gets Algorithms Wrong

Most creators think algorithms are these mysterious, ever-changing beasts that randomly decide who gets famous. The truth? They're surprisingly predictable once you understand their core purpose: keeping users engaged.

Every major platform—Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, LinkedIn—has one primary goal: keep people scrolling, watching, and interacting. The algorithm isn't trying to suppress you; it's trying to figure out if your content will make people stick around.

Unlock the Power of AI With the Complete Marketing Automation Playbook

Discover how to reclaim your time and scale smarter with AI-driven workflows that actually work. You’ll get frameworks, strategies, and templates you can put to use immediately to streamline and supercharge your marketing:

• A detailed audit framework for your current marketing workflows

• Step-by-step guidance for choosing the right AI-powered automations

• Pro tips for improving personalization without losing the human touch

• Tools and templates to speed up implementation

Built to help you automate the busywork and focus on work that actually makes an impact.

Steal the Playbook

The Three Pillars of Algorithm Success

1. Early Engagement is Everything

The first 30 minutes after posting are crucial. The algorithm uses this window to test your content with a small audience. If people engage quickly, it gets shown to more people. If not, it dies in obscurity.

Action Steps:

• Post when your audience is most active (check your analytics)

• Have a few friends or followers ready to engage immediately

• Create content that naturally encourages quick responses (questions, polls, controversial takes)

2. Completion Rates Matter More Than Views

A video that 100 people watch completely beats a video that 1,000 people watch for 5 seconds. The algorithm rewards content that holds attention.

Action Steps:

• Hook viewers in the first 3 seconds

• Use the "pattern interrupt" technique—start with something unexpected

• Keep your content tight and purposeful

• End with a clear call-to-action that encourages rewatching

3. Consistency Builds Momentum

Algorithms love predictability. They want to know what to expect from you so they can serve your content to the right people at the right time.

Action Steps:

• Pick 2-3 content themes and stick to them

• Post at consistent times

• Maintain a consistent visual style

• Use similar hashtags and keywords across posts

Platform-Specific Algorithm Hacks

Instagram

• Use all available features (Reels, Stories, carousels)

• Post carousels with valuable information—they get saved and shared more

• Reply to comments within the first hour

• Use trending audio in Reels

TikTok

• Jump on trends early (within 24-48 hours)

• Use text overlays to increase watch time

• Post multiple times per day if possible

• Engage with comments by creating response videos

YouTube

• Optimize your thumbnail and title for clicks

• Use the first 15 seconds to deliver on your title's promise

• Create series or playlists to boost session time

• Pin engaging comments to spark more discussion

LinkedIn

• Post native content (not links) for better reach

• Ask questions to encourage comments

• Share personal stories and lessons learned

• Engage authentically with others' content

The Content Types Algorithms Love

1. Educational content that teaches something valuable

2. Behind-the-scenes content that builds personal connection

3. Trending topics with your unique perspective

4. User-generated content that builds community

5. Controversial takes that spark healthy debate

The Biggest Algorithm Mistake You're Making

Stop chasing viral content and start building an engaged audience. A post that gets 1,000 engaged views from your target audience is infinitely more valuable than a viral post that reaches random people who don't care about your niche.

The algorithm rewards creators who build genuine communities, not just big numbers.

Your 30-Day Algorithm Action Plan

Week 1: Audit your posting times and identify when your audience is most active 

Week 2: Create content specifically designed for early engagement (questions, polls, debates) 

Week 3: Focus on improving completion rates by analyzing your best-performing content 

Week 4: Implement platform-specific strategies and track your results

The Bottom Line

The algorithm isn't your enemy—it's a tool waiting to be understood. Stop trying to hack it and start working with it. Create content that genuinely serves your audience, post consistently, and engage authentically.

Remember: algorithms change, but human psychology doesn't. Focus on creating content that people actually want to consume, and the algorithm will follow.