Why Your Instagram Reach Is Low (Even If You’re Posting Regularly)

Updated for 2025 – And What You Can Do to Fix It

Are you showing up on Instagram and posting consistently but still seeing low engagement and barely any reach? You’re not alone. Many small businesses, creatives, and boutique brands feel the same frustration, especially after spending time and effort to stay active online.

And here’s the kicker: Instagram is still one of the best platforms for visibility, brand awareness, and community-building. But the rules of the game have changed.

If you’re wondering why your Instagram reach is down, even when you’re doing everything “right,” this blog explains what’s happening and offers tips on how to turn things around in 2025.



First: Check These Instagram Settings

Before you post anything else, make sure these settings are turned on — they can affect how your content performs in both Instagram and Google searches:

1. Go to Settings → Account → Account Privacy
Make sure your account is set to Public.

2. Go to Settings → Sharing & Reels.

Enable Sharing to Reels, Allow Remixing, and Allow Sharing to Stories.

These tiny switches help your content be more discoverable and reused — a win for reach.

Why Is My Instagram Reach So Low?

Instagram has evolved. What worked last year (or even last month) doesn’t guarantee results today. Here’s why your posts may not be performing:



1. The Instagram Algorithm Prioritises Reels Over Static Posts

If you mainly post quote tiles, images, or static graphics, you're missing out. Instagram’s algorithm favours video content,, especially Reels,, because it keeps users on the app longer.

Solution: Post short, engaging Reels.
Think: before-and-after projects, tips, mini tutorials, or trends with your spin.



2. Your Posts Aren’t Generating Enough Engagement Signals

Likes are no longer the primary metric. Instagram now values saves, shares, comments, and time spent on your post.

Solution: Write captions that drive interaction. Try:
• “Save this for later”
• “Tag a friend who needs this”
• “What’s your experience? Drop it in the comments”



3. Hashtags Don’t Work Like They Used To

Hashtags are used to drive discovery, but now the algorithm leans more on content type, trends, and user behavior. Over-reliance on hashtags can limit your reach.

Solution: Use relevant hashtags, but focus more on format and content quality. Reels and carousels will go further than hashtags alone.



4. You’re Posting... But Not Engaging

Instagram wants interaction. Your visibility will suffer if you don’t reply comments, shoappearories, or interainteracters.

Solution: Spend 15–30 minutes before and after posting, engaging with other accounts. Comment, react, reply — be social.



5. Your Content Feels Too “Safe” or Repetitive

Consistency is good. But if your content feels predictable or too polished, users may scroll past without engaging.

Solution: Mix it up. Share carousels, Reels, behind-the-scenes content, or real client stories to keep it fresh and valuable.



How Often Should You Post on Instagram?

Aim for 3–5 times per week and vary your content:

• 2–3 Reels
• 1 carousel or graphic post
• 1 Story highlight or behind-the-scenes update

Focus on quality over quantity. A few strong, engaging weekly posts will do more for your reach than daily uploads with low interaction.

You’re Not Doing It Wrong — The Rules Just Changed

If your Instagram reach is low, you’re not failing. The platform is simply pushing us to be more dynamic and engaging. As a boutique digital agency, we’ve seen these trends shift and we’re helping businesses evolve with them.



Want Help Growing Your Business Online?

Based in Wollongong, we specialise in strategic website design in Australia and after-launch digital marketing.   We offer personal, boutique support for businesses who host their websites with us.

Let’s make your content work harder and reach further.