How to Hack the Instagram Algorithm and Unlock 300K Followers

Twitter roasts Instagram.

But the platform has helped me unlock 300k followers and $400k in revenue in 2022.

Here's how to hack the Instagram algorithm:

— MATT GRAY (@matt_gray_) March 15, 2023

Post Carousels Daily

My omnichannel creator funnel:

Twitter thread
↓
LinkedIn carousel
↓
Instagram carousel

Here are the numbers:

• 4 carousels/week
• ~4000 likes
• ~68 newsletter signups

Long-form content via carousels delivers high value/post. pic.twitter.com/GLZEZpRLKo

— MATT GRAY (@matt_gray_) March 15, 2023

Leverage Illustrated Videos

Illustrated videos are the best way for knowledge creators to leverage IG shorts.

Here are the 3 key features:

• Smooth transitions
• Consistent branding
• High-quality content via voiceovers

Gain massive traction using this new format. pic.twitter.com/zAUUNWQIiw

— MATT GRAY (@matt_gray_) March 15, 2023

Construct Clear Descriptions

IG descriptions are a cheat code for conversions.

Here are some key tips:

• Use emojis to create personality
• Use clear spacing and line breaks
• Expand on your post + add a clear CTA

Links aren't permitted - learn to navigate around it. pic.twitter.com/KDtXcgyVUv

— MATT GRAY (@matt_gray_) March 15, 2023

Grow via Story Shares

There's no native RT function on Instagram.

IG growth hinges on getting story shares:

• Build story share networks
• Purchase store shares to get account off the ground
• Create formats that people like sharing (animated videos, graphics etc.)

— MATT GRAY (@matt_gray_) March 15, 2023

Build a High-Frequency Content Approach

My content strategy for 2023:

• YouTube Shorts: 2x per day
• Instagram: 2x per day
• LinkedIn: 2x per day
• Twitter: 2x per day
• TikTok: 2x per day

Consistency is the name of the game.

Nail a niche and do two-a-days.

— MATT GRAY (@matt_gray_) March 15, 2023

Optimize your Instagram Profile

The most important elements of an Instagram profile (in sequential order):

• Professional Headshot
• @ projects your working on
• Clear newsletter CTA w/ value highlighted
• 3 Pinned Pieces of Content (high-performing, niche-alignment) pic.twitter.com/apfV3Isy8e

— MATT GRAY (@matt_gray_) March 15, 2023

Capture Newsletter Subscribers

You don't own your Instagram audience.

Don't waste time trying to sell them on platform + risk their trust.

Drive them to your newsletter via:

• Link in bio
• Story carousels
• CTA in descriptions

— MATT GRAY (@matt_gray_) March 15, 2023

Find Content Alignment

Answer these 2 questions before creating content

- Why should someone care?
- Why would someone share this with 5 friends?

If you don't have a clear answer.

Get back to the drawing board.

Create content that transforms people's lifestyles.

— MATT GRAY (@matt_gray_) March 15, 2023

Want to go deeper?

I run a (free) Workshop on How to Build and Monetize an Audience of 100,000 raving fans in 8 days.

I'll be giving away a $149 Audience Growth Playbook for free.

I'd love to see you there 👇https://t.co/fQdgvx73uv

— MATT GRAY (@matt_gray_) March 15, 2023