Many Instagram users notice that their posts and Reels suddenly stop getting views, likes, and comments. While this can be frustrating, it doesn't always mean your account has been restricted. In many cases, small mistakes in posting habits or account settings can reduce your reach.

Here are eight practical tips that can help improve your Instagram performance.

1. Check Your Account Status

Instagram lets you see whether your account is eligible to have its content recommended.

How to check:

• Open Instagram.
• Go to Profile > Menu > Settings and Activity.
• Tap Account Status.

If Instagram flags any content, review the issue and follow the instructions provided.

2. Use Original Content

Instagram generally gives better visibility to original content than repeatedly reposted videos from other platforms.

To improve your chances of reaching more people:

• Create your own Reels.
• Avoid videos with visible watermarks.
• Add your own voiceover or editing style.

3. Focus on the First Three Seconds

The beginning of a Reel determines whether viewers keep watching.

Start your video with:

• A surprising fact.
• A question.
• A quick demonstration.
• A strong visual.

A better hook often leads to higher watch time.

4. Don't Overuse Hashtags

Adding 20 or 30 hashtags doesn't guarantee more views.

Instead:

• Use 3–5 relevant hashtags.
• Choose hashtags closely related to your content.
• Avoid repetitive or unrelated tags.

Quality matters more than quantity.

5. Post When Your Audience Is Online

Timing still plays an important role.

Check your audience activity:

• Go to Professional Dashboard.
• Open Insights.
• View Most Active Times.

Posting when followers are online can improve early engagement.

6. Reply to Comments Quickly

Instagram values interaction.

After publishing a post:

• Respond to comments.
• Answer questions.
• React to replies.

Active conversations can help increase the visibility of your content.

7. Keep Reels Short and Engaging

While Instagram supports longer videos, shorter Reels often perform better.

Aim for:

• Clear storytelling.
• Fast pacing.
• No unnecessary pauses.
• A satisfying ending.

Keeping viewers watching until the end can improve your Reel's performance.

8. Update the Instagram App

Many creators miss new features simply because they use an outdated version of the app.

Regular updates can provide:

• Performance improvements.
• Bug fixes.
• New editing tools.
• Access to the latest Instagram features.

Bonus Tip: Review Your Content Insights

Instead of guessing what works, use Instagram Insights to analyse your posts.

Pay attention to:

• Watch time.
• Shares.
• Saves.
• Audience retention.
• Reach.

These metrics help you understand what type of content your audience enjoys most.