How to use hashtags effectively on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram
Hashtags have been a powerful tool in social media marketing for over a decade, helping brands, businesses, and individuals increase discoverability, join trending conversations, and build communities. However, as social media platforms evolve, so do their algorithms, engagement strategies, and best practices for hashtag usage.
In March 2025, hashtags are no longer a one-size-fits-all strategy—their effectiveness varies significantly across different platforms. This blog post will explore how hashtags work today on Facebook, Twitter (now X), LinkedIn, and Instagram, and provide examples of effective hashtags for each platform.
1. Hashtags on Facebook: Are They Worth Using?
How Hashtags Work on Facebook
Facebook originally resisted hashtags, but over time, the platform integrated them into search results and content discovery. However, Facebook’s algorithm prioritizes personal connections and engagement over hashtag usage, making them less effective than on other platforms.
Best Practices for Hashtags on Facebook in 2025
✔ Use 1-3 highly relevant hashtags per post – Too many hashtags can look spammy and reduce engagement.
✔ Focus on branded and community hashtags – Since Facebook users interact more with groups and pages than trending topics, brand-specific hashtags work best.
✔ Use hashtags for event promotion – Hashtags help centralize conversations around events and campaigns.
Examples of Effective Facebook Hashtags
✅ #MorphPRMarketing – A branded hashtag for content related to your business.
✅ #SmallBusinessSuccess – Works well in business and marketing groups.
✅ #EventMarketing2025 – Helps create a hub of content around a specific event.
🚫 Why Generic Hashtags Don’t Work on Facebook
Popular hashtags like #love, #instagood, or #trending don’t gain much traction because Facebook’s search prioritizes personal connections over hashtag trends.
2. Twitter (X): The Birthplace of Hashtags & Their 2025 Role
How Hashtags Work on Twitter (X)
On Twitter (now X), hashtags remain a core feature for organizing conversations and tracking trends. They increase visibility, drive engagement, and are still essential for news, events, and viral topics.
Best Practices for Hashtags on Twitter (X) in 2025
✔ Use 1-2 relevant hashtags per tweet – Tweets with too many hashtags can look cluttered and perform worse.
✔ Join trending conversations – Monitor Twitter Trends to participate in relevant discussions.
✔ Create campaign-specific hashtags – Great for product launches, events, and discussions.
Examples of Effective Twitter Hashtags
✅ #MarketingTrends2025 – For marketers discussing the latest industry trends.
✅ #AIinBusiness – A hot topic as AI continues to shape industries.
✅ #BrandingTips – Short, niche hashtags perform well for informational content.
🚫 Why Some Hashtags Don’t Work on Twitter (X)
- Overused hashtags like #viral, #fun, or #love do not provide targeted visibility.
- Twitter’s algorithm promotes quality conversations, so tweets with spammy hashtags can be downranked.
3. LinkedIn: The Professional Approach to Hashtags
How Hashtags Work on LinkedIn
Hashtags on LinkedIn help categorize content, allowing users to find posts relevant to their industry or interests. Unlike other platforms, LinkedIn hashtags focus on professional topics, making them great for networking and B2B marketing.
Best Practices for Hashtags on LinkedIn in 2025
✔ Use 3-5 professional and industry-specific hashtags – Helps content reach the right audience.
✔ Engage with hashtags in comments – Using hashtags in comments and reposts increases visibility.
✔ Follow industry hashtags – Following hashtags allows you to stay updated on relevant discussions.
Examples of Effective LinkedIn Hashtags
✅ #DigitalMarketingTrends – Relevant for marketers and business owners.
✅ #LeadershipDevelopment – Works well for leadership and career growth content.
✅ #SustainableBusiness – Ideal for discussions on sustainability in business.
🚫 Why Some Hashtags Don’t Work on LinkedIn
- Hashtags like #FollowMe or #LikeForLike are unprofessional and can damage credibility.
- Overloading posts with hashtags can make content look desperate for reach rather than insightful.
4. Instagram: The Changing Role of Hashtags in 2025
How Hashtags Work on Instagram
Instagram was once heavily reliant on hashtags, but in 2025, its algorithm prioritizes content quality, Reels, and engagement over hashtags. While hashtags still help categorize content, their role has shifted.
Best Practices for Hashtags on Instagram in 2025
✔ Use 5-10 highly relevant hashtags per post – The days of using 30 hashtags are gone.
✔ Mix branded, niche, and trending hashtags – A blend ensures better reach.
✔ Place hashtags in the caption, not comments – Instagram no longer prioritizes comment-based hashtags.
Examples of Effective Instagram Hashtags
✅ #SocialMediaGrowth – A niche hashtag for digital marketers.
✅ #EntrepreneurLife – Works well for business owners and startup content.
✅ #LondonFoodies – Example of a location-specific hashtag that boosts local visibility.
🚫 Why Some Hashtags Don’t Work on Instagram
- Hashtags like #InstaGood, #PicOfTheDay, or #FollowMe are oversaturated and don’t generate meaningful engagement.
- Hashtags alone won’t make content go viral—Instagram’s AI favors engagement metrics over keyword-based reach.
Final Thoughts: Are Hashtags Still Worth Using in 2025?
The role of hashtags has evolved, but they still serve a purpose on social media when used strategically. The key is understanding each platform’s algorithm and adapting your approach:
✔ Facebook – Use sparingly for community engagement and event promotion.
✔ Twitter (X) – Still essential for news, trends, and brand discussions.
✔ LinkedIn – Best for professional content and industry-specific networking.
✔ Instagram – Use fewer, more relevant hashtags; focus on quality content.
💡 Takeaway: Hashtags alone won’t drive engagement in 2025—they need to be part of a bigger strategy that includes high-quality content, audience interaction, and smart social media marketing.
Are you using hashtags effectively in your marketing strategy?
