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How to Use Hashtags to Boost Engagement on Social Media
Hashtags are a simple yet powerful tool to increase engagement on social media. When used strategically, they can help tradespeople reach a broader audience, attract new customers, and grow their business. Here’s a breakdown of how hashtags work and how to use them effectively.
What Are Hashtags? Hashtags are words or phrases preceded by the “#” symbol that categorize content and make it discoverable. When users search for or click on a hashtag, they can find all posts tagged with it, allowing them to discover relevant content.
Why Are Hashtags Important?
Increase Visibility: Hashtags make your posts visible to a wider audience beyond your followers.
Boost Engagement: Posts with hashtags tend to receive more likes, shares, and comments.
Target the Right Audience: Industry-specific hashtags ensure your content reaches potential customers.
Stay Relevant: Trending hashtags help you join ongoing conversations in your field.
Choosing the Right Hashtags
To maximize engagement, focus on:
Industry-Specific Hashtags: Use hashtags related to your trade, like #PlumberLife or #ElectricianTips.
Location-Based Hashtags: Add regional hashtags if you serve a specific area, such as #LondonPlumber.
Trending Hashtags: Keep an eye on trending topics and incorporate them when relevant.
Branded Hashtags: Create a unique hashtag for your business to encourage customer interaction.
Engagement-Driven Hashtags: Hashtags like #DIYHelp can encourage sharing and comments.
Best Practices for Hashtags
Keep It Relevant: Use hashtags that relate directly to your post.
Mix Popular and Niche Hashtags: Broad hashtags expand reach, while niche ones target the right audience.
Use a Manageable Number: On Instagram, 5-10 hashtags are ideal; on Twitter and LinkedIn, 2-3 work best.
Test and Adjust: Track engagement and adjust your hashtag strategy accordingly.
Platform-Specific Tips
Instagram: Combine trending, niche, and branded hashtags in your caption or first comment.
Facebook: Limit to 1-2 relevant hashtags to avoid a cluttered appearance.
LinkedIn: Focus on professional and industry-related hashtags.
Twitter (X): Use concise and trending hashtags to fit within the character limit.
TikTok: Use a mix of trending and descriptive hashtags for maximum reach.

Hashtags are a powerful way to boost your social media presence. By choosing the right mix of relevant and trending hashtags, you can increase engagement, attract new customers, and grow your business. Start using hashtags strategically and see the difference they make!
According to a Sprout Social study, posts with at least one hashtag get 12.6% more engagement.
Want to Make Social Media Easier for Your Trade Business?
Keeping your trade business visible online takes time, but it doesn’t have to be difficult. Sociabl provides everything you need to stay active on social media without the hassle.
With a Sociabl subscription, you get:
✔ 120 pre-written, engaging captions every month
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✔ 100 fresh content ideas to keep your posts engaging
✔ Expert tips, marketing guidance, and useful business insights
Spend less time thinking about social media and more time focusing on your trade. Subscribe today and let Sociabl do the hard work for you.