If you’re wondering how to use hashtags effectively, you’re not alone. Hashtags play a huge role in increasing visibility, improving engagement, and helping users find your content. In this guide, you’ll learn what hashtags are, how to choose the right ones, and how to use them strategically across different platforms.
What Are Hashtags and How Do They Work?
Hashtags are keywords or phrases preceded by the “#” symbol. When added to social media posts, they help categorise content and make it easier for users to find. You can include hashtags in captions, comments, or even bios.
By using relevant hashtags, your content becomes part of larger conversations, making it easier for others to discover and engage with your posts—even if they don’t follow you yet.
How to Choose the Best Hashtags for Your Content
To use hashtags effectively, you need to choose ones that are relevant and well-targeted.
Here’s how to do it:
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Start with relevance: Your hashtag should align with the content you’re sharing.
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Know your audience: Choose hashtags that your ideal audience actually searches or follows.
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Research trends: See what’s trending in your niche to tap into active conversations.
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Use tools: Platforms like Hashtagify.me help you discover high-performing, related hashtags for your topic.
✅ Pro tip: Mix popular hashtags with niche ones to improve your chances of being discovered.
Types of Hashtags and Their Use by Platform
Different platforms prioritise hashtags differently. Here’s how to use hashtags effectively on the most popular networks:
Twitter: Join the Conversation with Trending Hashtags
Twitter uses trending hashtags to group active discussions. These hashtags allow users to connect around shared interests in real time.
To use them effectively:
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Monitor trending topics daily
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Join discussions relevant to your brand
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Add 1–2 trending hashtags per post for better visibility
Instagram: Build Visibility with Branded and Niche Hashtags
Instagram lets you add up to 30 hashtags per post—but that doesn’t mean you should. Aim for 8–15 highly relevant hashtags instead.
Types to include:
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Branded hashtags: Unique to your business or campaign (e.g. #DigitalGrowth101)
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Community hashtags: Popular within your industry (e.g. #SmallBusinessTips)
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Descriptive hashtags: Related to your post (e.g. #SocialMediaMarketing)
Using hashtags well on Instagram helps you grow organically and build a loyal community.
Facebook: Connect Locally with Location-Based Hashtags
While hashtags aren’t as essential on Facebook, local or community-based hashtags can still increase reach.
Use them to:
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Connect with nearby users (e.g. #SwanseaBusiness)
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Share event updates or community news
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Join cause-based movements or awareness campaigns
How to Use Hashtags Strategically in Your Marketing
Before using a hashtag, always define what you want to achieve. Are you trying to:
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Start a conversation? Use a hashtag like #LetsTalkMarketing
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Increase content shares? Try #ShareMyContent
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Build brand awareness? Create a campaign tag like #YourBrandNameTips
Ask yourself:
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Who is your audience?
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What hashtags are they following?
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Will your hashtag align with their interests or language?
🎯 Example: If you’re targeting 30–40-year-olds in the UK, hashtags like #Over30Goals may work better than #40AndFabulous.
Bonus Tips: Best Practices for Hashtag Use
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Avoid overly long or complex hashtags
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Don’t stuff your post with hashtags—quality beats quantity
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Check each hashtag before using it to avoid accidental brand damage
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Track performance through platform analytics or tools like Later or Sprout Social
Conclusion: Hashtags Are More Than Just Trends
Knowing how to use hashtags effectively gives your content a competitive edge. They help you expand reach, boost visibility, and engage with the right audience.
Used with intention, hashtags can:
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Increase content discoverability
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Drive more traffic to your page
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Create meaningful conversations around your brand
💬 Got questions? Drop them in the comments or join the conversation in the Digital Growth 101 Facebook Group. Want more digital marketing tips? Visit our Blog Archive for helpful guides and resources.