How To Work With The Algorithm: Not Against It

Every single platform is ruled by an algorithm, but do you ever feel like it hates you? Too often the algorithm feels like a moving target, where one minute your content is performing, and the next it’s crickets. If you’re tired of guessing, chasing trends, and seeing little return, you’re not alone.

When Kylie was building DFYS, she learnt the hard way that is physically impossible outwork the algorithm. She was posting all the time, jumping on every trend, trying to gain likes and reach. She thought more content meant better results, but all of that effort spiralled into exhaustion and overwhelm. Sound familiar?

It wasn’t working the way she hoped, and she realised that instead of trying to beat the algorithm, she could utilise a strategy that worked with it. A strategy that focused on connection, value, and consistency, not just constant content.

This realisation formulated the foundation of what we teach and implement at DFYS for every client. Because you don’t need to be glued to your phone to grow online, you just need the right system.

Here’s how:

FOCUS ON WHAT THE ALGORITHM ACTUALLY WANTS

The algorithm is simply a filter, with a goal to show people the content they’re most likely to engage with.

This means it rewards:

• Posts that get comments, shares, saves, and DMs

• Profiles that show up consistently

• Creators that use the platform’s tools and features

This is why it’s important to shift your energy into creating content that your audience wants to engage with, that’s the real secret.

CREATE CONTENT THAT SPARKS INTERACTION

Every time someone likes, comments, or shares your post, that’s a signal to the algorithm that your content is worth showing to more people.

To boost engagement:

• End posts with a strong call to action

• Ask questions or share a relatable story

• Use polls, sliders, and quizzes in stories

The more people who engage within the first hour, the better your reach will be.

CONSISTENCY BEATS FREQUENCY

You don’t need to post every single day to stay relevant. You’ll find that posting 3–5 times per week with intention is more effective than trying to show up daily and consequently burning out.

Instead of stressing about volume, ask yourself:

• Does this post help my audience?

• Does it spark curiosity or connection?

• Does it align with my goals?

The most efficient and effective way to do this is by batching and scheduling content in advance. This way you can achieve algorithm consistency without that daily pressure.

USE FEATURES THAT THE PLATFORM IS PUSHING

Every platform wants you to use its newest tools, and each platform algorithm rewards you when you do.

Here’s what’s hot right now:

• Instagram: reels, broadcast channels, carousels

• Facebook: lives, groups, story polls

• LinkedIn: native video, thought posts, polls

• TikTok: trending sounds, educational value, stitch and reply features

Choose 1–2 formats you enjoy using, and dig deep. You don’t need to do it all to stay visible.

OPTIMISE YOUR CONTENT FOR SEARCHING (SEO)

Social media has evolved far beyond just a place to scroll, with platforms like Instagram and TikTok being used as powerful search engines. People are treating social platforms the same way they use Google, which means your content needs to be search optimised to show up where your dream clients are looking.

That means:

• Use clear keywords in your bio and captions

• Write descriptive captions

• Include relevant hashtags, but keep it niche

DON’T JUST POST, ENGAGE

The algorithm watches how you behave on the app. If you’re actively engaging, responding, and connecting with others, you’re telling the platform that you’re here to build community, and that’s rewarded.

Try this:

• Spend 10–15 minutes each day replying to comments and DMs

• React to stories of potential clients

• Leave meaningful comments on posts from accounts in your industry

This is how you transform your social media from a content platform into a relationship tool.

KEEP THE HUMAN TOUCH

In light of everything said, don’t forget that algorithms change, trends come and go, but people always connect with people.

It’s easy to get caught up in the metrics, but the most powerful way to grow online is by being yourself and showing up with value, consistently.

THE DFYS DIFFERENCE

At DFYS, we help business owners and entrepreneurs simplify their content strategy so they can focus on connection over confusion. And when it comes to social media, that starts with working with the algorithm instead of fighting against it.

Let’s build you a presence that’s consistent, engaging, and algorithm approved.