14 Effective Strategies To Increase Reach on Instagram

When it comes to Instagram, I’ve learned that it’s not just about having a big follower count—it’s about making sure real people are actually seeing my posts.

Sometimes it can feel like you're shouting into the void, wondering if your message is really reaching anyone new. I know. That's why reach measurement is incredibly important.

In this article, I want to share what I’ve discovered about why reach matters, how I track it, and the strategies I lean on to make sure my content gets in front of more of the right people. If you’re looking to do more than just chase likes and want your Instagram presence to actually make an impact, this is for you.

Why is reach an important metric for measuring success on Instagram?

Instagram Reach measures how many distinct individuals have seen your post, Story, or Reel—providing a clear indicator of your brand’s actual audience, not just your follower count.

But why does this number matter so much? In practice, reach is more than just a stat on a dashboard. It reveals how far your message is spreading, whether you’re breaking into new audience segments, and which content is truly resonating.

A higher reach signals that your brand is becoming more visible and that your strategy is succeeding in capturing attention beyond your existing followers. By tracking reach, you can pinpoint which posts, campaigns, or creative formats are making the biggest impact—helping you refine your approach for even greater results.

And, when it comes to measuring progress or making the case for more resources, reach provides clear proof.

Month-over-month increases demonstrate growth, while comparisons with industry benchmarks or competitors help you spot new opportunities and adjust your strategy.

Ultimately, reach is the starting point for every meaningful outcome on Instagram, ensuring your content is actually seen before it has the chance to engage, inspire, or convert.

What does the reach rate on Instagram stand for, and how can it be calculated?

Instagram reach rate is a metric that measures the percentage of unique users who have seen your content compared to your total number of followers.

It helps evaluate the effectiveness of social media campaigns by showing how well your content is reaching and engaging your audience.

Here's how to calculate it:

(Total reach ÷ Number of followers) × 100

So, for example, if 500 people see your post and you have 5,000 followers, your reach rate is 10%.

What is a good reach on Instagram?

Social media insights from Socialinsider show a significant 12% YoY decrease in Instagram’s reach rate from May 2024 to May 20245, meaning posts are reaching fewer people.

According to the platform's reach benchmarks revealed by the data, a reach rate of 3.50% can be considered a good reach rate.

This highlights the growing challenge of maintaining visibility, emphasizing the need to adapt strategies—whether focusing on more engaging content or balancing organic and paid reach.

14 Strategies that will help your increase your reach on Instagram

So you want to know how to get more reach on Instagram.

Here are quick, punchy social media best practices to get your content seen and your audience growing.

#1. Create content for every stage of the funnel

Creating content for every stage of the funnel is essential for increasing Instagram reach because it ensures you're not just engaging your current followers but actively attracting new ones.

This means going beyond content designed for your followers and creating posts that appeal to people who haven’t discovered you yet.

Focus on attraction content that grabs attention through strong hooks, compelling visuals, and clear calls to action.

To measure your success, you may rely on native analytics, especially with Reels, which provide a clear split between followers and non-followers reached.

This data helps you understand what type of content resonates with new audiences, allowing you to refine your strategy for even greater impact.

This year, brands can reach more people on Instagram by focusing on short form video content, leaning into the benefit of Reels to entertain and educate while incorporating trending audio and visual storytelling to capture audiences attention quickly.

Instagram’s algorithm also emphasizes searchable content, so optimizing posts with relevant keywords in captions and alt text is key for your content to be discovered.” – Morgan Cox, Social Media Manager & Content Creator

#2. Create shareable and save-worthy content

Lately, I’ve noticed that people aren’t as quick to leave comments or hit the like button on my posts as they used to be.

More and more, people are quietly interacting with content: saving posts for later or sending them to friends privately, instead of reacting publicly. That’s why shares and saves are quickly becoming two of the most meaningful ways to measure if your content is truly hitting home.

Before I post anything, I ask myself: Is this something someone would genuinely want to share in their group chat, or save because it’s useful, inspiring, or just too good to lose in the feed? Sometimes it’s a practical tip, an eye-opening infographic, or even a relatable meme—whatever gives people that nudge to hit “share” or “bookmark.”

But knowing what works isn’t just guesswork. I love diving into my analytics to see exactly which posts sparked a wave of shares or saves.

Tools like Socialinsider make it easy, allowing me to dive deeper and run a specific timeframe analysis and then analyze the posts that led to increases or decreases in my metrics.

In a time when people interact more passively, creating content that’s shareable and save-worthy is one of the surest ways to extend your reach and stay top-of-mind—even if your followers aren’t always shouting back in the comments.

#3. Leverage Instagram Reels

To increase reach, Instagram Reels are your strongest asset.

They dominate in visibility because they don’t just live in one spot—they’re featured in the main feed, the Explore page, and the dedicated Reels feed, giving them multiple chances to be discovered.

While Reels generally work great for visibility, this content type is particularly effective for small-to-medium-sized accounts, generating the highest number of impressions, as per our Instagram benchmarks study.

To ride this wave, use trending audio to tap into algorithm-driven boosts.

Moreover, Reels also work exceptionally well for authentic, humanized content like behind-the-scenes (BTS) moments, which create stronger connections with followers.

When brainstorming Reel ideas, focus on relatable, engaging content, and keep in mind that the ideal Instagram Reels length is between 60-90 seconds for maximum impact, both in terms of views and engagement.

#4. Leverage Instagram SEO optimization

A good social media manager understands that Instagram works like a search engine.

This means that people don’t just scroll—they actively search for content, brands, and accounts that interest them.

That’s where social media SEO comes into play.

By optimizing both your profile and content for Instagram SEO, you increase the chances of your account appearing in search results, Explore pages, and recommended content.

This helps new audiences discover your brand organically.

Start with your profile:

Think of your Instagram profile as your homepage. To make it search-friendly:

• Complete all sections of your account, including your name, username, bio, and website link.
• Secure the verification badge (if applicable) to boost credibility and improve search priority.
• Craft a niche-relevant, keyword-focused bio. Use specific keywords related to your industry, products, or services. This helps Instagram’s algorithm understand who you are and what you offer, making it easier to recommend your profile to the right audience.

Optimize your content:

Once your profile is optimized, apply the same strategy to your posts:

• Use relevant hashtags and captions with targeted keywords to improve discoverability in search results.
• Adding ALT text is one of the easiest Instagram reach hacks that helps Instagram’s algorithm understand your images and make them more discoverable.

This way, you create a cohesive presence that enhances your social media optimization and boosts your visibility across Instagram.

#5. Embrace trends

When looking for ways on how to expand reach on Instagram, tapping into trending content is a game-changer.

Using popular sounds, viral challenges, or meme formats can significantly increase the visibility of your posts.

However, keep in mind that the key isn’t to follow every trend blindly—it’s about selecting trends that align with your brand’s identity and messaging to keep your content authentic.

For instance, if a trending sound fits your brand’s style, use it creatively to showcase your products or tell a story.

Or, if a meme format is going viral, put your own spin on it to reflect your brand’s personality.

Adding this unique twist not only keeps your content relevant but also helps it stand out in a crowded feed.

By thoughtfully incorporating trends, you can engage your current audience, attract new followers, and effectively expand your reach on Instagram.

#6. Team up with influencers

Another strategic way to expand your Instagram reach is through influencer marketing.

Teaming up with influencers allows you to tap into new audiences who already have a genuine interest in your brand’s niche, increasing both Instagram exposure and engagement.

As you probably know already, influencers bring authenticity and trust, making their followers more receptive to your brand compared to traditional ads.

To find the best ones to work with, you can use influencer analytics tools, which help identify influencers whose audience demographics, engagement rates, and content align with your goals.

This data-driven approach ensures your collaborations are not only creative but also highly effective in driving growth and visibility.

User-generated content also remains a powerful tool. Collaborating with creators, especially micro or nano influencers, is still one of the best ways to expand your reach while tapping into their engaged communities.

Audiences also want and crave authenticity, so sharing relatable moments or real stories can make your brand have an advantage. – Morgax Cox, Social media manager & Content Creator

#7. Create brand partnerships

Many may not realize that brand partnerships are one of the most effective Instagram tips for reach.

This cross-exposure introduces your content to new followers who are already engaged with a similar brand—and not only.

Partnerships can also allow you to break into entirely new audiences, explore different niches, and create content that feels fresh and unexpected.

It all comes down to finding creative synergies that make people stop scrolling.

Take Skims, for example.

Known for their strategic brand partnerships, they recently teamed up with The North Face to launch a ski attire collection.

On the surface, shapewear and outdoor gear seem worlds apart, but this collaboration was a masterclass in merging fashion with function.

It sparked conversations, generated buzz, and expanded both brands' reach far beyond their usual audiences. That’s the power of a well-thought-out partnership—it surprises, engages, and pulls in new eyes.

#8. Make use of geolocation

Did you know that using geolocation is actually a smart strategy for how to expand Instagram reach?

By adding location tags to your posts and stories, you make your content discoverable to people exploring that specific area—even if they don’t follow you yet.

Whether it's a city, landmark, or local spot, geotags help Instagram connect your content with users interested in that location, increasing your chances of reaching new, local audiences and boosting engagement.

#9. Leverage UGC

One of the biggest social media marketing challenges is consistently creating fresh content that stays relevant to your audience.

And what better way to tackle this than by leveraging user-generated content (UGC)?

Encouraging customers to tag your business in their posts not only provides you with a steady stream of authentic content but also strengthens your connection with your community.

UGC serves as powerful social proof—when people see real customers enjoying your products, it builds trust and credibility.

Plus, sharing content created by your audience makes them feel valued, turning them into loyal brand advocates.

It’s a win-win: you get engaging content without the heavy lifting, and their posts help your brand reach new audiences organically through their networks.

It’s one of the most effective ways to get more reach on Instagram while fostering a community that feels genuinely connected to your brand.

In a social landscape filled with countless versions of the same trend, focusing on core values and brand identifiers is essential to stand out. It's the "how" brands share content that will matter even more in 2025.

With innovations like multi-user Collab posts and, more recently, Trial Reels, Instagram clearly wants brands to experiment, have fun, and create (and co-create!) content that adds value and evokes emotion. Killian Abuan, Social Media Specialist

#10. Run contests and giveaways

Running contests and giveaways is one of the most effective strategies for increasing your Instagram reach because it drives high-value engagement in a short period.

By encouraging actions like tagging friends, sharing posts, and commenting, you create organic touchpoints that extend your content beyond your current audience.

This not only boosts visibility but also signals to Instagram’s algorithm that your content is relevant and engaging, increasing the likelihood of it being featured in more feeds and Explore pages.

The result is amplified brand exposure, faster follower growth, and a stronger community—all key drivers for sustainable reach.

#11. Use Stories and Highlights

To achieve increased reach on Instagram, leveraging Stories and Highlights is a strategic must.

Stories keep your brand in constant view, appearing at the top of your followers’ feeds and creating daily opportunities for engagement.

But it’s not just about being seen—adding interactive features like polls, quizzes, and question stickers encourages followers to engage directly, which signals Instagram's algorithm to push your content to a wider audience.

And let’s not forget about Highlights.

Highlights serve as a curated snapshot of your brand, showcasing key offerings, testimonials, or FAQs in an easy-to-navigate format.

This makes it effortless for new visitors to connect with your brand’s value right away.

Together, Stories and Highlights work to create a dynamic flow of engagement, driving consistent growth and increased reach on Instagram.

We think to get more reach on Instagram in 2025, businesses need to stop thinking of Instagram as just a grid and start treating it like an ecosystem because DMs, Instagram Stories, and Broadcast Channels are where some of the best reach happens.

So, our advice would be don't just rely on the main grid and put all your creativity into newsfeed content—get creative with the other tools Instagram wants you to use too and use those tools to reach people and build relationships with them. – The Two Lauras

#12. Stir engagement

Engagement is one of the Instagram metrics all marketers chase—and for good reason.

The more your audience interacts, the more your content gets prioritized, reaching beyond your current followers.

So here’s how to turn interactions into impact:

• Speed is strategy: Quick replies to comments and DMs show you’re active—and Instagram notices.
• Make smart use of captions: Skip the basic questions. Instead, challenge opinions, spark debates, or drop hot takes that demand a response.
• Be the conversation starter: Don’t wait for comments to roll in. Dive into industry posts, leave bold insights, and get noticed beyond your feed.
• Pay attention to hooks: Your first line isn’t just an intro—it’s the scroll-stopper. Make it impossible to pass without reacting.
• Don’t forget about the CTA: Ditch the “comment below.” Try, “Another way to track your social media metrics? Share your secret recipe.”

Instagram is all about DMs these days and they represent a personal relationship which means people who you connect with in DMs (conversation back and forth) will see your content higher in their feed.

So use CTAs on posts and Stories that encourage people to send you a DM - whether for a link, more information, to share a personal experience, etc. These two tactics WILL help you get more reach this year.” – Jenn Herman, Instagram Expert

The algorithm loves action. Keep the conversation alive, and your reach will follow.

#13. Invest in Instagram ads

If you’re still wondering how to reach more people on instagram, the answer lies in finding the right balance between organic vs. paid social media strategies.

While organic content helps build authentic connections and community, it can be limiting due to algorithm changes.

That’s where paid social media comes in.

Instagram ads allow you to target specific demographics and interests, giving your content a visibility boost beyond your existing audience.

By experimenting with different ad formats like Instagram Reels, Stories, and Carousel Ads, you can identify what works best and optimize your campaigns for better results.

#15. Dive into Instagram analytics

Last but not least, consistently monitoring your Instagram analytics ensures you’re not just posting content blindly but making data-driven decisions.

Tools like Socialinsider simplify social media measurement, helping you identify trends, high-performing formats, and growth opportunities.

Start by discovering your top-performing content formats in terms of reach and impressions—just like in the attached dashboard, where Reels clearly outperform Images and Carousels.

This helps you focus on formats that truly engage your audience.

Next, analyze historical post data to see how your reach has evolved over time.

That’s your cue to dig deeper: What kind of posts led to that surge? Were they part of a specific campaign, tied to a particular content pillar, or did they feature a standout CTA?

Identifying these patterns through social media analysis allows you to replicate what works, optimize future content, and maximize your Instagram reach.

Here's a case where Gabriel, from Inteligencia Audiencia, recommends using Socialinsider - when you want to avoid the frustration and mental burden of dealing with complex tools or extensive manual data gathering.

Additionally, Anna from Greentarget recommends Socialinsider for streamlining the process of pulling data for client presentations.

Lastly, keep an eye on your insights frequently and adapt quickly to trends and what’s working to stay ahead of the game. With the right mix of creativity and strategy, brands can set themselves up for success on the platform. – Morgan Cox, Social media manager & Content Creator

What does the Instagram algorithm take into account for increased reach?

In 2025, Instagram’s algorithm continues to evolve, but the core focus remains on how users interact with content.

According to Adam Mosseri, Instagram’s ranking system now relies heavily on three primary signals: watch time, likes, and sends.

These factors influence both connected reach (people who already follow you) and unconnected reach (potential new audiences who don’t follow you yet).

• Watch time: The strongest indicator of content quality. It’s not about total views, but how much of your video people actually watch. Content that holds attention from start to finish signals value to the algorithm, making strong hooks and engaging pacing in the first few seconds crucial.
• Likes: A quick, powerful form of engagement that shows viewers enjoyed your content. Likes carry more weight for connected reach (your followers), helping your posts rank higher in their feeds when consistently high.
• Sends/ shares: Essential for reaching new audiences. When people share your content via DMs, it signals value beyond just liking it. Sends are slightly more influential than likes for unconnected reach, helping content break out of the follower bubble through organic sharing.
  

Thus, when reviewing your Instagram insights, pay close attention to three key social media metrics:

• Average watch time: Are people watching your videos all the way through or dropping off early?
• Likes per reach: What percentage of viewers are liking your content?
• Sends per reach: How often is your content being shared relative to its reach?

Understanding these signals can help you fine-tune your content strategy.

Final thoughts

Growing your reach on Instagram will not happen through shortcuts or overnight success— because it’s about finding the strategies that help your content land with real people, again and again. From crafting posts that people want to share or save, to learning from the patterns in your analytics, every small step adds up.

The landscape keeps changing, and so do the ways people interact. That’s why I recommend always testing, tweaking, and checking in on the numbers—not just looking for wins, but understanding why they happened. Tools like Socialinsider make that process so much easier, turning raw data into real insight about what your audience actually values.