5 Splendid Strategies That Drive Higher Likes on Instagram Posts

Are you tired of pouring your heart into Instagram posts only to see a handful of likes? In 2025, standing out on Instagram is tougher than ever, but with the right strategies, you can turn every post into a like-magnet and build a loyal, engaged audience that truly values your content.

I’m Riten, founder of Fueler—a platform that helps companies hire through assignment-based portfolios. In this article, I’ll break down the most effective, up-to-date ways to boost your Instagram likes. Remember, getting more likes isn’t just about numbers; it’s about building credibility, trust, and a real connection with your audience. Just like a strong portfolio proves your skills, every like on Instagram is proof that your content resonates.

Why Instagram Likes Matter in 2025

Instagram likes are more than just a number—they’re a signal to both the algorithm and your audience that your content is valuable, engaging, and worth sharing. High engagement increases your chances of being featured on the Explore page, attracts potential brand collaborations, and helps you grow your influence in your niche. In today’s digital landscape, likes can lead to more followers, partnerships, and even business opportunities. That’s why it’s essential to understand what truly drives likes and how to leverage these strategies for long-term growth.

1. Master the Art of Visual Storytelling

Visual storytelling is the backbone of Instagram success. In a platform built around images and videos, your visuals must do more than just look pretty—they need to tell a compelling story that draws people in.

To master this, start by identifying the story behind each post. Are you sharing a transformation, a behind-the-scenes moment, or an inspiring journey? Use high-resolution images, consistent color palettes, and thoughtful compositions to make your feed visually appealing. Videos should be well-lit, steady, and edited to keep viewers engaged from start to finish.

But storytelling isn’t just about visuals. Use your captions to add context, emotion, or a personal touch that helps your audience connect with you on a deeper level. When people see themselves in your story, they’re more likely to double-tap and share your content. Remember, posts that evoke emotion—whether it’s joy, nostalgia, or inspiration—tend to get more likes because they create a memorable experience for your audience.

2. Leverage Trending Hashtags and Topics

Hashtags are Instagram’s way of categorizing content, making it discoverable to users interested in specific topics. To maximize your reach, research and use a strategic mix of popular, niche, and branded hashtags relevant to your post.

Stay updated with current trends, viral challenges, and events happening in your industry or community. Participate in trending conversations or challenges by creating your own unique spin—this not only increases your visibility but also shows that your brand is active and in tune with what’s happening now.

However, avoid overloading your posts with irrelevant or spammy hashtags. Instead, focus on quality over quantity by choosing hashtags that accurately describe your content and target audience. You can also create a branded hashtag for your community to encourage user-generated content and foster a sense of belonging.

By consistently using relevant hashtags and participating in trending topics, you increase your chances of appearing on the Explore page and reaching users who are more likely to engage with your content.

3. Post at the Right Time for Maximum Engagement

Timing plays a crucial role in how your posts perform. Even the best content can go unnoticed if it’s shared when your audience isn’t online. To find your optimal posting times, use Instagram Insights to analyze when your followers are most active. This data may vary depending on your audience’s location, age, and habits.

Experiment by posting at different times and track which slots yield the highest engagement. Generally, mornings (7-9 AM) and evenings (6-9 PM) on weekdays tend to be effective, but your audience might have unique patterns.

Consistency is also key. Develop a posting schedule that keeps your audience anticipating your content. When you consistently show up at the right times, you build momentum, increase your chances of immediate engagement, and signal to Instagram’s algorithm that your content is worth promoting to a wider audience.

Additionally, consider leveraging Instagram Stories and Reels to keep your audience engaged throughout the day. Stories, in particular, allow you to stay top-of-mind and interact with your followers in real-time, boosting overall engagement on your profile.

4. Write Captivating Captions and Strong Calls to Action

A visually stunning post can catch attention, but a well-crafted caption is what turns that attention into meaningful engagement. Your captions should do more than just describe the photo—they should tell a story, share insights, or spark a conversation.

Start with a strong hook to draw readers in, then use storytelling techniques, humor, or relatable anecdotes to keep them interested. Ask open-ended questions to invite comments and encourage your audience to share their thoughts or experiences.

Always include a clear call to action (CTA) that guides your audience on what to do next. Whether it’s “double-tap if you agree,” “tag a friend who needs this,” or “share your thoughts below,” a CTA increases the likelihood of likes and comments.

Remember, Instagram rewards posts that generate quick engagement. The more people interact with your post soon after it’s published, the more likely it is to be shown to a broader audience. So, make your captions as engaging and interactive as possible.

5. Engage Authentically with Your Community

Instagram is a social platform, and genuine engagement is the key to building a loyal following. Take the time to reply to comments, like your followers’ posts, and participate in conversations both on your page and within your niche.

Go beyond surface-level interactions by asking thoughtful questions, acknowledging feedback, and showing appreciation for your community’s support. Use interactive features like polls, quizzes, and question stickers in Stories to foster two-way communication and make your followers feel valued.

Building authentic relationships not only increases your chances of getting more likes but also creates a supportive community that advocates for your content. When your followers feel seen and heard, they’re more likely to engage with your posts, recommend you to others, and stick around for the long haul.

How Fueler Helps You Build a Like-Worthy Instagram Presence

At Fueler, we understand the power of proof. Our platform allows you to showcase your best content and achievements in a visually appealing portfolio, making it easier for brands and clients to see your real impact. Just like a well-curated Instagram feed, a strong portfolio builds trust, attracts opportunities, and proves your ability to create content that people love. If you want to stand out in the digital world, let your work speak for itself—on Instagram and beyond.

Advanced Tips for Consistent Growth

• Experiment with Content Formats: Don’t limit yourself to static images. Use carousels, reels, and stories to keep your content fresh and engaging. Each format offers unique ways to connect with your audience and drive more likes.
• Collaborate with Influencers: Partnering with influencers or creators in your niche exposes your content to new audiences and adds credibility to your brand. Collaborations can take the form of shoutouts, joint giveaways, or co-created content.
• Use Analytics to Refine Your Strategy: Regularly review your Instagram Insights to identify what’s working and what’s not. Double down on high-performing content and tweak your approach based on data-driven insights.
• Stay Updated with Instagram Features: Instagram frequently rolls out new features like interactive stickers, music, or shopping tags. Embrace these updates to enhance your content and stay ahead of the curve.

Final Thoughts

Getting more likes on Instagram in 2025 is about more than just following trends it’s about understanding your audience, delivering value, and building genuine connections. Focus on storytelling, engagement, and authenticity, and watch your likes and your influence grow.

FAQs

1. How do I get more likes on Instagram posts?

Use high-quality visuals, trending hashtags, post at optimal times, write engaging captions, and interact authentically with your followers.

2. What are the best times to post on Instagram for more likes?

Analyze your audience’s activity using Instagram Insights to find when they’re most active, usually mornings and evenings on weekdays.

3. Do hashtags really help increase Instagram likes?

Yes, using relevant and trending hashtags increases your post’s visibility, helping you reach new audiences and gain more likes.

4. How can I make my Instagram captions more engaging?

Tell stories, ask questions, and use calls to action to encourage your audience to interact with your posts.

5. How does Fueler help with Instagram growth?

Fueler lets you showcase your best work in a portfolio, making it easier to attract brands and followers who value high-quality, engaging content.

What is Fueler Portfolio?

Fueler is a career portfolio platform that helps companies find the best talents for their organization based on their proof of work.

You can create your portfolio on Fueler, thousands of freelancers around the world use Fueler to create their professional-looking portfolios and become financially independent. Discover inspiration for your portfolio

Sign up for free on Fueler or get in touch to learn more.