In today’s fast-evolving Instagram world, many creators, influencers, and businesses wonder if it’s possible to grow their content without using hashtags. The truth is—yes, it is absolutely possible!
While hashtags have long been the go-to strategy for boosting visibility, they’re not the only path to success. Relying solely on hashtags can feel outdated or even ineffective due to algorithm changes. So what’s the alternative? In this complete guide, we’ll explore how to get more likes on Instagram without using hashtags at all—organically, smartly, and sustainably.
WHY SOME USERS AVOID HASHTAGS
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to revamp your engagement strategy, this technique will give you every tool and technique you need to boost your like count in 2025—without a single hashtag.
- THE ALGORITHM SHIFT
Instagram’s algorithm is always evolving. Today, it’s focusing more on content quality, engagement behavior, and watch time than keyword-heavy hashtags. Many users have noticed a decline in hashtag performance and are seeking alternative engagement methods.
- VISUAL AESTHETICS & CLEAN CAPTIONS
Many content creators aim for a minimal and professional look in their captions. Hashtags can make captions look cluttered or less authentic, especially in brand collaborations.
- SPAM & SHADOWBANNING CONCERNS
Overusing or misusing hashtags can lead to shadowbanning, where your content is hidden from non-followers. Some hashtags are even banned entirely, and using them can harm your post’s visibility.
HOW TO GET MORE LIKES WITHOUT HASHTAGS
CREATE VISUALLY STUNNING CONTENT
Instagram is a visual-first platform. The most basic but powerful strategy to earn more likes is to focus on high-quality images and videos.
Here’s how to do that:
- Use natural lighting whenever possible
- Maintain a consistent visual style or filter
- Focus on well-composed shots that tell a story
- Keep your editing clean and professional
People are naturally drawn to aesthetic content—they double-tap before they even read the caption.
WRITE CAPTIONS THAT CONNECT
- STORYTELLING MATTERS
Captions give depth to your visuals. Tell stories that are:
- Personal and relatable
- Funny or emotional
- Honest and engaging
Use storytelling to create an emotional connection that makes people want to support your post with a like.
- ASK FOR INTERACTION
It may seem simple, but asking for likes directly works:
- “If you agree, hit that ❤️”
- “Double-tap if this made you smile.”
- “Which one’s your favorite? Like the post and let me know!”
People love clear calls-to-action (CTAs)—but make sure it feels genuine, not forced.
OPTIMIZE YOUR POSTING TIME
POST WHEN YOUR AUDIENCE IS ACTIVE
One of the most overlooked methods of getting more likes is simply posting when your followers are online.
Use Instagram Insights to track:
- When your audience is most active
- Time zones
- Day-of-week performance
Posting at peak times boosts initial engagement, which is crucial for how Instagram ranks your content in feeds.
ENGAGE BEFORE YOU POST
THE 15-MINUTE RULE
Before you publish a new post, spend 15 minutes engaging with others:
- Like and comment on posts in your niche
- Respond to recent comments on your own content
- Watch and react to Stories
This warms up your account, increases visibility, and encourages reciprocal engagement, including more likes on your new post.
LEVERAGE INSTAGRAM STORIES AND REELS
DIRECT TRAFFIC TO YOUR FEED
Even without hashtags, Stories and Reels are powerful tools for attracting attention. You can use Stories to:
- Tease your new post
- Share behind-the-scenes content
- Encourage your followers to “check out the latest post and show some love”
Reels, on the other hand, often go viral due to their short-form, engaging nature. Always direct your audience from Reels to your main post to multiply likes.
COLLABORATE WITH OTHERS IN YOUR NICHE
SHOUTOUTS AND PARTNERSHIPS
Team up with other creators or small businesses in your niche:
- Tag each other in posts
- Mention each other in Stories
- Create co-branded content
This cross-promotion strategy brings new eyes to your page—people who are likely to like your content if it’s aligned with their interests.
MAINTAIN A CONSISTENT POSTING SCHEDULE
STAY ACTIVE TO STAY VISIBLE
Instagram rewards consistency. Posting frequently (but not excessively) keeps you top of mind for your followers. That means more opportunities for engagement and likes.
Use tools like:
- Content calendars
- Post planners
- Scheduled posting apps
Just be sure to prioritize quality over quantity.
RESPOND TO YOUR COMMENTS AND DMS
BUILD A COMMUNITY
People are more likely to like and engage with content from creators who talk back. Make it a habit to:
- Reply to comments on your posts
- Thank users who DM or share your content
- Be approachable and human
Community engagement results in loyal followers—and loyal followers are generous with their likes.
AVOID FAKE ENGAGEMENT AT ALL COSTS
THE RISKS OF BUYING BOTS
Buying fake likes may seem tempting, but it’s risky and easily detected. Instagram can:
- Penalize your account
- Limit reach
- Decrease credibility
Authentic engagement always performs better in the long run.
USE ANALYTICS TO STUDY WHAT WORKS
DOUBLE DOWN ON HIGH-PERFORMING POSTS
Check your Instagram Insights regularly to find out:
- Which posts get the most likes
- Which formats perform best (carousels, reels, photos)
- What kind of captions drive engagement
Use this data to create more of what your audience wants—and your like count will naturally grow.
FINAL TIPS FOR ORGANIC GROWTH WITHOUT HASHTAGS
- Use geotags if relevant (they can boost discoverability)
- Pin engaging comments to the top of your post
- Feature user-generated content from your audience
- Run a contest or giveaway (with rules to like your post to enter)
- Share your Instagram post to Facebook or Twitter
Remember, every small action compounds. Stay consistent, stay authentic, and results will follow.
GROW YOUR INSTAGRAM THE RIGHT WAY WITH RHODBOOST
RhodBoost is the go-to solution for creators, influencers, and businesses who want to get more real likes, views, and engagement—without using bots or shady tactics.
With RhodBoost, you get:
- 100% real and organic Instagram likes
- Fast and secure delivery
- No risk of bans or shadowbanning
- Great customer service and affordable packages
Whether you want to boost a post, grow a business account, or become a top-tier influencer—RhodBoost makes it happen ethically and efficiently.
CONCLUSION
Hashtags are helpful—but they’re not a requirement for success on Instagram. You can absolutely get more likes without using hashtags by focusing on what really matters: content quality, timing, storytelling, and community engagement.
The Instagram algorithm may shift, but human behavior remains the same: people like to connect with content that speaks to them, inspires them, or makes them feel something. Use that to your advantage.
And if you’re looking to give your growth a jumpstart without compromising your authenticity, consider using RhodBoost—a trusted and proven way to increase real engagement and likes from real users.
