Hashtags have been around for a long time. Most businesses use them out of habit. But lately, they are not doing as much as they used to.
Social media has changed. People are now using platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn to search. They are looking up services, researching businesses, and typing in what they need just like they would on Google.
That is where keywords come in.
Keywords are the words people type into a search bar when they are looking for something. If those same words appear in your content, there is a better chance your posts will be found.
Hashtags can still help, especially if you are part of a niche audience or running a campaign. But if you want to show up when people are actively looking for a service like yours, keywords are essential.
It starts with thinking about your audience.
What are they typing when they go looking for answers, services, or ideas? What language do they use? That is the language your content needs to reflect.
Here is what to focus on:
Use clear, everyday words in your captions
Add important terms to your profile and bio
Include keywords in your alt text for images
Choose hashtags that relate directly to your business or audience
Instead of writing something like “#businesstips #accountinglife”, try “How to prepare for tax time as a small business owner.” It is direct and it speaks to what people are actually looking for.
One small shift can make a big difference.
When you write your posts with search in mind, you are not just adding content to the feed. You are creating something that can be found weeks or even months later.
That is the power of keywords.
They help people find you when they are already interested. And that is the kind of visibility that leads to real results.
So next time you write a post, think beyond hashtags. Use language your clients would search for. Keep it simple. Keep it clear. And let your content work harder for you