Timing is Everything: Does posting time on Instagram matter anymore?

They say timing is everything, but in the world of Instagram, it is crucial to have captivating content and post at the correct times to reach your target audience. Here are some tips that I have noticed that help to level up my client's accounts:

Open your insights and observe daily activity patterns.

Instagram Insights is a valuable tool that provides essential data about your followers’ activity (you can find it under the “Audience” tab). Look for patterns in your audience’s most active hours each day so you can schedule your posts to maximize visibility.

Engage Your Audience with Polls and CTAs.

Engagement is key on Instagram, so … why don´t you ask your audience when is their most active times? You can use Instagram Stories to create polls, and if your story views aren't as high as you´d like, don't worry … you can also use a CTA (Call to Action) in your regular posts to encourage your audience to share their preferred activity time.

Experiment!

Test out posting at different times and look at the differences in engagement within the first few minutes and long term. The Instagram algorithm is continually evolving, and what works today may only work for a while.

Study and understand your audience's lifestyle.

Think about your audience’s habits. If they work a 9–5, when will they check IG? Your audience’s habits and lifestyle play a significant role in determining the best posting times. Take the time to study your followers and consider their professions, daily routines, and demographics. For instance, if your audience comprises working professionals, they may be most active during their lunch breaks or after work hours. If you cater to moms, consider when they will likely have free time, such as during naps or late evenings.

Quality content is still king.

Timing is super important when it comes to posting, but it’s not the only thing that matters … by optimizing your schedule, you can boost your visibility. However, investing in producing top-notch and captivating content is just as crucial. Think about what is essential for your audience or what or how you can help or provide vital information for your users. Remember, posting time is just one factor the algorithm looks at — you still need to create quality and engaging content to reach your account's full potential.

By combining effective strategies — using Instagram Insights, polling your followers, experimenting with posting times, and studying your audience — you can gain a more comprehensive understanding of your audience’s behaviour and needs. This will help you create a tailored posting schedule that aligns with your followers’ daily lives and expectations. It is important to stay adaptable and responsive to your audience while it grows and changes.