Today, the amount of likes a person gets on their Instagram has really become a symbol of status. The more likes you get, the higher regarded you are as an Instagram connoisseur. But wait, there’s more. Do you get more than 100 likes on every post? 200? Even more? You must be an absolute master!

This may sound superficial and completely irrelevant, but what you may not realize is that these thoughts and anxious feelings actually occur! People become stressed about the amount of likes they receive on posts. It happens! Why? Easy. Social Media has become such an integral part of our generation’s lives. What we post on Social Media and the response we get from our followers is reflection of our reputation and who we are as a person.  For most people, however, getting that many likes is unordinary. In fact, it can even seem impossible. Forget about the limits because I am here to tell you some quick tips on how to increase your likes and followers on Instagram.

Much like any other skill or ability, Instagram knowledge must be constantly groomed, updated, and enhanced.  In other words, as my brother likes to say, “You can always step up your Instagram game.”  No one is ever perfect and there is always room for improvement.  So without further ado, he is your 411 on how to get the those likes.

1. Stick to a solid schedule.  No one likes an “Instagram hogger” who blows up everyone’s timeline. Take it easy with the posts. I like to follow the “one post per day” rule, though there are obvious exceptions. The “one post per day” maximum lets your followers like your post, but you do not overwhelm them with multiples posts. It also makes your followers appreciate your posts more because it becomes more of a commodity to them.

2. Like other people’s posts! Have you ever heard the saying, “Treat others the way you want to be treated?” The same goes for likes and follows on Instagram. Follow others and like other’s posts if you want that in return.  Also, do not follow other Instagram users just for a follow back and then eventually unfollow them when you do get that follow back. It’s not only rude but it’s awkward if you actually know them and see them in person! Just try to stray away from this trend.

3. Be creative with your posts. In order to maximize the most likes and followers on Instagram, don’t be boring! Do not post what everyone else posts. Yes, it is a NECESSITY to post food and Starbucks photos. However, put your own little twist on it that makes it different than the norm. Don’t be mundane or ordinary. Make people want to like your photos. Your goal in posting these photos is to surprise your followers.  You want to show them something exciting, different, and unique. If you can provide any of the previous criterions, then you're set for many likes!

4. Hashtag. In addition to making your photos differentiated, strategically use hashtags and comments to title the photo. Often times, Instagram users will like your photo for the witty comments or hashtags you post in addition to the actual picture. This is a key strategic point in enhancing your likes.

5. Filters.  If you want to go above and beyond, use the filers and edits that Instagram allows you to implement on your photos. Obviously, the first item that captures Instagram scrollers‘ eyes are the aesthetics. Make it pretty! Highlight certain parts of the photo that really makes it stand out.  Be careful, though; make sure to not take away from the essence of the specific photo itself.

These are just some suggestions to increase those “double-taps” on your picture