How To: Hashtags
In social media, hashtags are more than just a trendy add-on—they're a powerful tool for discovery, branding, and engagement. Whether you're running a small business, managing a personal brand, or marketing for a large company, understanding how to use hashtags effectively can make or break your online presence.
In this blog, we’ll break down what hashtags are, why they matter, and how to use them strategically for different types of businesses.
What Are Hashtags?
Hashtags are words or phrases preceded by the # symbol, like #MarketingTips or #TravelTuesday. They're used on social media platforms (especially Instagram, Twitter/X, LinkedIn, and TikTok) to categorize content and make it discoverable to people interested in that topic. By clicking or searching a hashtag, users can explore a feed of public content that also uses that hashtag. This means your post can reach people outside your current followers, expanding your visibility.
Why Do Hashtags Matter?
Hashtags offer several key benefits:
Increased Reach: Get discovered by new audiences.
Content Categorization: Help your posts appear in relevant searches.
Community Engagement: Join larger conversations or movements.
Brand Awareness: Promote branded hashtags that encourage UGC (user-generated content).
Analytics & Trends: Track trending topics and measure campaign performance.
But using them aimlessly won’t get you far. The trick is to be intentional and strategic with your hashtag usage.
General Tips for Using Hashtags
Before we dive into specific examples, here are a few general best practices:
Keep them relevant: Always use hashtags that match your content.
Mix popular and niche: Use a blend of high-volume tags and more specific ones to balance reach and relevance.
Don’t overdo it: Instagram allows up to 30 hashtags per post, but studies suggest 5–11 well-chosen ones often perform better.
Avoid banned hashtags: Some tags are banned or shadowbanned for spam—using them can hurt visibility.
Create a branded hashtag: Encourage your followers to use it when they post about your product or service.
1. Retail & E-commerce (Fashion, Accessories, etc.)
Retail thrives on visuals and trends. The goal is to get your products in front of people looking for inspiration or shopping ideas.
Hashtag Examples:
#OOTD (Outfit of the Day)
#StyleInspo
#ShopLocal
#OnlineBoutique
#SustainableFashion
#FallFashion2025
#MyBrandNameStyle (branded)
#AccessoryAddict
Pro Tip: Use seasonal and holiday hashtags to stay timely—like #BlackFridayDeals or #SpringStyle.
2. Food & Beverage (Restaurants, Cafés, Bakers, etc.)
Food content is some of the most engaging on social media. High-quality visuals paired with the right hashtags can bring hungry people to your door (or delivery app).
Hashtag Examples:
#Foodie
#InstaFood
#BrunchGoals
#LocalEats
#VeganRecipes
#CoffeeLovers
#BakedWithLove (custom/branded)
#TacoTuesday
Pro Tip: Pair geographic hashtags with niche food ones—e.g., #NYCEats + #AvocadoToast.
3. Fitness & Wellness (Gyms, Personal Trainers, Coaches)
Fitness is both aspirational and motivational. You’re marketing a lifestyle, not just a service.
Hashtag Examples:
#FitFam
#GymLife
#WellnessJourney
#HomeWorkout
#MindBodySoul
#FitnessTips
#TrainWithName (branded)
#MondayMotivation
Pro Tip: Hashtags like #TransformationTuesday or #SweatSession can align with daily or weekly content themes.
4. Creative Services (Photographers, Designers, Artists)
Showcasing your portfolio? Hashtags can help you connect with potential clients or collaborators.
Hashtag Examples:
#CreativeEntrepreneur
#DesignInspo
#FreelanceLife
#ArtDaily
#BehindTheScenes
#LogoDesign
#YourBrandNameCreates (branded)
#PhotographyLovers
Pro Tip: Participate in popular creative challenges with their own hashtags to grow your reach.
5. Real Estate
In real estate, visibility and local expertise are key. Hashtags help you stay top-of-mind and searchable in specific areas.
Hashtag Examples:
#HomeForSale
#DreamHome
#RealEstateTips
#HouseHunting
#CityNameHomes (e.g., #AustinHomes)
#OpenHouseAlert
#SoldByYourName (branded)
#RealtorLife
Pro Tip: Use hyperlocal hashtags that people in your target area are searching.
6. Coaches & Consultants (Life, Biz, Career)
As a coach, you’re building thought leadership and trust. Hashtags help you join larger industry convos and attract your ideal client.
Hashtag Examples:
#LifeCoach
#BusinessTips
#GoalSetting
#MindsetShift
#SuccessMindset
#BookedAndBusy
#CoachWithName (branded)
#LeadershipDevelopment
Pro Tip: Engage with others using the same hashtags—don’t just post and ghost.
7. Tech & SaaS Companies
Tech companies often focus on innovation, education, and solving pain points. Hashtags can help position you as a thought leader.
Hashtag Examples:
#TechTrends
#SaaS
#StartupLife
#DigitalTransformation
#ProductivityTools
#CodeNewbie
#BuiltWithYourProduct (UGC/branded)
#RemoteWork
Pro Tip: Don’t forget LinkedIn hashtags—ideal for B2B engagement.
How to Find the Right Hashtags
Here’s how to discover hashtags that make sense for your brand:
Research Competitors: What are others in your niche using?
Use Tools: Try tools like Hashtagify, Later, or Instagram’s own search.
Monitor Trends: Platforms like Twitter/X and TikTok show trending hashtags.
Test & Analyze: Try different combinations and track which ones bring engagement.
Hashtag Strategy Template
If you’re starting from scratch, try this basic structure:
1–2 branded hashtags (e.g., #YourBrandName)
3–5 industry-specific hashtags (e.g., #FitnessMotivation, #HealthyLiving)
2–3 community hashtags (e.g., #SupportSmallBusiness, #WomenInBusiness)
1–2 trending or seasonal hashtags (e.g., #SummerVibes, #2025Goals)
1 location-based hashtag (e.g., #ChicagoEats)
Final Thoughts
Hashtags might seem simple, but using them with strategy can open up a world of visibility and growth for your business. Think of them as your search engine keywords for social media. With the right mix of relevance, branding, and consistency, you’ll not only reach more people—but the right people.
