5 Secrets to Beat the Algorithm on TikTok and Instagram for Artists [Avoid Art Business Burnout]
Episode 14 Show Transcript - Empowered Artist Podcast
Before we dive into the tactical strategy, there are 2 very important mindshifts you should consider in your approach to TIkTok and Instagram when it comes to the algorithm and posting your daily content.
These mindshifts will help you NOT feel hella frustrated and burned out!
The truth is that sometimes we want to throw our phones across the room after creating content for hours, posting, then not even our followers are seeing!
It can feel defeating.
Below I’m sharing 5 secrets for beating the algorithm on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Creating quality content and engaging with your audience is essential. I’ll explain the power of video, using trending sounds or music, incorporating clear call-to-actions, and posting at high traffic times.
It’s time to focus on quantity and not get too caught up in the algorithm
What questions do you have for me? Let’s do a Q&A episode!
I know this blog is gonna drum up some questions so leave me a podcast voicemail now (and anytime!). Go to JennaWebbart.com/podcast. Give me a thought or question, and I would love to do a Q&A episode.
Two mindshifts about the algorithm.
1. Don’t think about the algorithm.
If you’re focused on creating quality content, then your followers will engage with it. Engagement is the RULE on any platform at any time no matter what the changing algorithm wants to see. Engagement tells the algorithm people like this post lets show it to more people. It makes our platform look good.
If you are busy worrying about the algorithm or complaining about the algorithm then you are in a victim mindset where you feel that the universe is working against you.
Chasing the algorithm will give you whiplash. It changes as often as you brush your hair.
I’m not saying the algorithm doesn't aggravate me too. I’ll post something I think is slap-yo-momma amazing, then nobody sees it and I get a little pissy.
But to stop myself from pouting, I remind myself that:
Nobody owes me anything
Social media is FREE to use
It's up to me to make quality content that's good
If I focus on the bigger picture it will all work out
Which brings me to my 2nd rule…
2. Focus on quantity.
Especially when you're new to the platform.
The more often you post, the more data you're going to get. DATA from your audience. DATA informs you how to work smart in your business.
When you know what type of content your audience is engaging with, and when you learn what kind of content they like, you can double down on that.
So, if you don't get too tied up in the algorithm, and if you don't take it too seriously, you're all good!
I am about to dive into 5 tactical ways to beat the algorithm. But, nothing replaces fundamentals of knowing how to engage with your ideal clients online. And how to find them.
If you want to learn how to turn followers into art buyers by attracting, connecting, and engaging with your ideal client…then you need my Instagram Workshop.
In the workshop you will learn:
How to post on IG with purpose in order to build deep connection with your ideal client
3 caption prompts
5 key elements every IG Post should have
How to strategically use hashtags to increase your visibility to your ideal art buyer
PLUS: 15-Point Checklist to Self-Audit your Instagram!
And a whole lot more!
It’s my most popular workshop by far so I know you’ll love it too!
To sign up for instant access and change your Insta game,
click here: jennawebbart.com/instagram
5 Secrets for Beating the Algorithm
When you have truly irresistible content + a value ladder, you don't have to fret over the algorithm. Give yourself permission to relax.
Here are a few tips to help you stay on top of what the platform wants to see, which will improve your visibility.
Secret #1: Use the latest features of the platform.
Whatever the platform is promoting, the algorithm will favor.
New features means you’ll need to keep up with trends and get accustomed to testing out new tech.
The “how to” is usually just a Google search or a Youtube video away!
Secret #2: Lean into video.
With TikTok’s rise to fame in the past few years, the other social media giants were quick to follow suit and incorporate video content into their platforms.
Videos allow you to connect more deeply with your audience, as well as be more memorable, and increase your outreach.
Audiences remember video content far more than static images, and the longer someone spends on your page to watch a video, the more the algorithm will favor you.
Examples of video: LIVE, Reels, Stories, Video Posts, Tiktoks (If you post to Pinterest, incorporate video footage to your pins! Video is IN.)
Secret #3: Use trending sounds / music.
Before posting video content (and sometimes pictures), you often have the opportunity to add music/sound.
Each platform has a different way of showing what’s “trending,” but using the most popular sounds will increase your audience reach.
Secret #4: Use clear CTA’s for engagement.
This will build relationships with your IC while being friendly to the algorithm.
When your audience engages with your content, it tells the algorithm that people like your content and it should be shown to more accounts.
For example, ask your audience to respond to a question in the comments (or use the questions story option). Take a poll/quiz, use the slider scale, utilize the “add yours” feature, include clickable links, save the post for future reference… the options are endless!
And by the way, I have a bomb 15 minute CTA lesson on if you want to know exactly what to post in your new social media caption to sell your artwork:
A call-to-action tells your buyer exactly what to do next, and guides them to a purchase.
Without a CTA your post is just flapping in the wind with no direction. That's when people only browse, they don’t hit like, comment, or send you a DM about purchasing your work.
The lesson is called “3 Phrases to Sell Your Art Now Lesson”
You get instant access, and the lesson is only 15 minutes,
That means you can post your artwork for sale with one of 3, strong, proven calls to action today!
If that sounds amazing to you,
visit jennawebbart.com/3phrases
You’ll love it!
Secret #5: Post at high traffic times.
Post when your audience is online.
Use your account insights to your advantage.
It’s important to post when your audience is online according to your profile analytics. Test out other times to see what works best.
If you're new and you don't have this data use 12:00 PM / 6:00 PM as people are generally taking work breaks.
Secret #6: Engage with your audience (time sensitive).
Right after posting, stay online for 30 minutes to engage with all comments and DMs.
The algorithm likes to see you interacting with other accounts.
Learn more about working with me to get the support you need in your art business:
If you would like to work with me personally, we can do that together inside my signature program Artpreneur Academy.
The Academy is a fully comprehensive, customizable blueprint to becoming a self-reliant, empowered, art business owner.
It’s worked for over 750+ artists!
And it can work for you too.
You can visit this page: Artpreneur Academy more or click the button below to learn all about it.
I hope you loved today’s episode and adopt these mindshifts and secrets today, so you can start seeing change in your social media game.
Love and Positive Vibes,
Jenna
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