Adam Mosseri spills the truth, and it’s time we rewire how we think about Instagram visibility.
If you’ve ever been told to just “use 30 hashtags and watch your reach explode,” please pause and take a breath. Because Adam Mosseri, the CEO of Instagram himself, has finally confirmed what some of us already suspected—hashtags alone won’t help your reach.
Yes, you read that right.
So, Should We Stop Using Hashtags? Not Quite.
The truth is, stuffing your captions with popular (and often irrelevant) hashtags like #explorepage or #instadaily isn’t helping anyone, least of all your content.
What does work? Being intentional. Hashtags are now less about algorithm tricks and more about searchability. You’re not playing the “get lucky and go viral” game. You’re showing up where people are already looking.
So, here’s what to do instead:
Think Like Your Audience
Ask yourself: What words would my ideal follower or client be typing into search?
If you’re a stylist in Bandra, they’re probably searching #Mumbaistylist or #bridalwearMumbai, not #styleicon.
If you’re a baker in Delhi, use #delhibakes or #egglesscakesdelhi.
Think location, think niche, think specifics. Your hashtag game should answer this: What am I posting, and who am I posting it for?
Quality > Quantity
Instagram is not Google. Hashtags aren’t SEO keywords that automatically push you to the top. So instead of 30 random tags, use 5-10 well-thought-out, niche-specific ones.
Take your time to research. Use tools. Stalk competitors. Dive into industry conversations.
Read Next: What Are We Sipping Naked?
Final Thought: Lazy Posting Is Out
We’re in an era where being intentional beats being viral. Hashtags are still useful, just not the magic wand we once thought they were. Focus on relevance, consistency, and connecting with your audience. Your growth will follow.
And if you needed a little push to declutter your hashtags today, this is it.
