How to Beat the Facebook Algorithm 2024

Let's explore and unlock the secrets to successful marketing on the world's largest social media platform!

Trà Nguyễn

15.8.2024

Social media has become an indispensable part of any brand's marketing strategy, and Facebook stands out as the largest social networking site with 2.06 billion monthly users. Brand owners or marketers leverage Facebook's massive user base to promote their products or services. However, to achieve effective marketing on this platform, you first need to understand how the Facebook algorithm works.

In this article, we will delve into the details of Facebook's algorithm, its development history, and the most effective strategies to fully harness its potential. Let's explore and unlock the secrets to successful marketing on the world's largest social media platform!

I. What is the Facebook Algorithm?

Although it may sound complex, the Facebook algorithm isn't as complicated as you might think. Over the years, marketers and advertisers have witnessed changes in the algorithm, which have negatively impacted their organic traffic and ad performance.

The Facebook algorithm is a set of rules and processes that determine which content is shown to users on the platform. According to Facebook, the algorithm analyzes a range of factors, including a user's previous behavior on the platform, the content of the post, the level of engagement the post receives, and the timing and location of the post.

The algorithm is designed to ensure that users see the most relevant and interesting content. It also encourages high-quality content that fosters engagement and builds community on the platform.

However, the algorithm is constantly changing and evolving, making it difficult for users and content creators to accurately predict how their posts will be ranked and displayed to others.

II. How Does the Facebook Algorithm Work?

The Facebook algorithm determines what content users will see on their News Feed. It uses various factors to assess the relevance of each post for individual users. Here are some key factors that influence the Facebook algorithm:

1. Inventory

This refers to all the available content on Facebook, including posts, photos, videos, and more. The algorithm must decide which content to display to each user.

2. Ranking Signals

Facebook uses a variety of signals to determine the relevance and appeal of each piece of content for individual users. These signals include the freshness of the content, the number of likes and comments it receives, the amount of time a user spends viewing it, and other factors.

3. Prediction

Based on the ranking signals, the algorithm predicts the likelihood of a user engaging with each piece of content. For example, if a user tends to interact more with videos than with images, the algorithm will prioritize showing them videos.

4. Score

Finally, the algorithm assigns each piece of content a score based on the predicted level of engagement. Content with the highest scores is then displayed to users in their News Feed.

The Facebook algorithm is constantly evolving and being updated to provide a better experience for users. However, by understanding the key factors that influence the algorithm, businesses and content creators can optimize their content to achieve maximum visibility and engagement on the platform.

III. Major Changes in the Facebook Algorithm

1. Meaningful Interactions (2018)

In 2018, Facebook acknowledged the impact of social media on users' mental health and took responsibility for improving the quality of time spent on the platform. They implemented changes to enhance the user experience by prioritizing posts that encourage more meaningful interactions, allowing users to engage more effectively.

2. "Why Am I Seeing This Post?" Feature (2019)

Facebook's algorithm began ranking high-quality original videos that kept users watching for at least one minute and maintained attention for three minutes. Facebook also started promoting content from close friends—the people users interact with the most. The "Why Am I Seeing This Post?" feature was introduced.

3. News Trustworthiness (2020)

In 2020, Facebook decoded some details of its algorithm, allowing users to control their data better and provide more accurate feedback to the algorithm. As a result, the algorithms enhanced the trustworthiness and quality of news articles to promote verified information rather than spreading misinformation.

4. Machine Learning and AI (2021)

As organic traffic hit record lows, Facebook introduced machine learning into its algorithm. Facebook used AI and machine learning to operate the algorithm and provide a better user experience.

5. Displaying Meaningful Stories (2022)

In 2022, Facebook decided which content to display on the News Feed based on three ranking signals: who posted it, the type of content, and the level of engagement with the post.

6. AI-Driven Content (2023)

In 2023, the algorithm evolved to be AI-driven, delivering personalized content to users based on their preferences and behaviors.

IV. Expected Changes to Facebook in 2024

1. Predicting Time Spent on Posts

AI will help predict how long users might spend viewing a post. To make this prediction, signals such as previous interactions and content type will be analyzed.

2. Relevance Scoring

A relevance score will be calculated for each post and used to rank content in users' News Feeds. This score will be influenced by content type, user interaction, and the time users spend viewing posts in the same category.

3. Transparency and User Control

Facebook plans to provide more transparency and control for users. This includes features like the "Show More, Show Less" tool, which allows users to customize their News Feed. Users will also be able to create a “Favorites” list to save posts they are interested in.

V. How to Beat the Facebook Algorithm

Beating Facebook’s algorithms can be a significant challenge, but it's not impossible. Here are 14 strategies you can try:

1. Post Regularly and at the Right Time

Timing is crucial when posting, as posting at the wrong time can negatively affect your organic engagement. There are optimal times to post, and by monitoring your analytics, you can determine the best times to post for your brand.

Every brand has its own ideal posting times, so experiment with different posting times and analyze the results to find the most effective timing for your brand.

Maintain Posting Frequency

There is no specific rule for posting frequency that applies to all brands. Each brand has its own audience with different interests and behaviors, so determine your posting frequency based on your audience's goals and needs. Once you find the right frequency, maintaining consistency is crucial to keep engagement and effectively reach your audience.

Simple posts like status updates or questions can also generate high engagement, but use this strategy creatively and avoid overusing it.

2. Facebook Live

Facebook's algorithms prioritize live videos over regular videos, making them more likely to be seen by users. Going live on social platforms helps you connect with followers in real-time, creating opportunities for interaction and boosting your online presence.

3. Facebook Stories

Facebook Stories are another great way to connect with your audience. Stories last only 24 hours, allowing you to showcase creativity and authenticity without needing to be perfect.

4. Facebook Reels

Facebook's algorithm favors Reels content, and Facebook itself has acknowledged this. Take advantage of this by incorporating Reels into your brand strategy.

5. Leverage the Power of Hashtag

Hashtags can significantly impact engagement when used correctly. Keep your hashtags relevant, unique, and memorable to attract your target audience's attention.

6. Avoid Algorithm Manipulation

Manipulating algorithms from the user’s end is unethical and can lead to your account being banned or permanently suspended.

7. Use Facebook Ads

Facebook ads help your brand reach a larger audience and drive traffic to your website. You can customize your audience based on age, gender, interests, and behaviors when setting up ads to target specific groups who are likely to be interested in your product.

8. Track Metrics and Analyze

Facebook business pages offer various useful analytics tools to monitor content performance. Understanding these metrics helps you adjust and improve your content strategy.

9. Understand Your Target Audience

Facebook allows you to customize who sees your posts, including both paid and organic content. Knowing your target audience is key to creating relevant content and building relationships with customers.

10. Maintain Audience Engagement

Initiate conversations by asking interesting questions or engaging in trending topics. This not only increases interaction but also helps your posts appear on users' News Feeds.

11. Avoid "Engagement Bait"

"Engagement bait" refers to tactics used to artificially boost interactions by prompting users to engage with each other. Instead, let your content naturally attract interest and interaction.

12. Verify Your Facebook Page

Verifying your Facebook page enhances your brand’s credibility, and Facebook also prioritizes ranking verified pages.

13. Focus on Community Building

Building a community around your brand helps you reach your target audience without relying solely on Facebook. Facebook Groups are a great place to foster interaction and establish your position in the industry.

14. Be Authentic

Ensure that the content you post is accurate and verified. False or misleading content will be downgraded by Facebook and negatively affect your reach.

Conclusion

Facebook remains one of the most effective tools for building your brand and connecting with potential customers. Your success depends on how intelligently and effectively you use Facebook. This requires patience and proper content planning. If you focus on creating quality content and adhering to the rules, your follower count will grow over time. Don’t forget to visit SO9.VN for more updated business operation insights! Good luck!

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