1. Likes
While the number of likes won’t directly affect the algorithm, it can make a huge difference to how your content is perceived.
Likes have a strong psychological effect on viewers. If a Reel has few likes, people may assume it’s not worth watching.
2. Comments
While algorithms don’t reward a large number of comments, comments can still help to increase views mechanically. When a user writes a comment, your video continues to play in the background. If they engage in a discussion, they may return several times to comment, which can increase the view count. So, while comments may not directly impact the algorithm, they can still be a valuable tool to increase your Reel views.
3.Saves
When someone saves your Reel, it signals to Instagram that your content is valuable and should be shown to more people. This can also help your content appear in the “Explore” section.
4. Shares: In DMs and Stories
When someone shares your Reel with their friends or followers, it can have a huge impact on your view count. Apart from the mechanical reach from reposts (such as when your Reel is sent to a friend and receives +1 view), there are also organic ones. Your video is shown to those who are similar to those who reposted it. For instance, if you post a Reel about making pasta and your follower sends it to a friend, Instagram will show reels about making pasta to those who are similar to your follower and their friend.
5. View Depth
The longer people watch your Reel, the better it performs in the algorithm. Instagram sees longer view times as a sign that your content is valuable and interesting.
6. Personal Interests
The algorithm takes into account the content that YOU engage with. This means that it’s important to ensure your personal interests align with your content.
Many people don’t realize the importance of this factor as it’s often overlooked. Despite what some may think, your likes, interests, and views are given top priority when it comes to showing YOUR posts to other users. It’s crucial to keep this in mind if you want to improve your reach on Instagram.