New in July: Instagram + Google Are Now a Thing

Starting in July 2025, Instagram content is stepping out of the scroll and into the search bar. That's right—your public business and creator account posts, carousels, and Reels may now appear in Google search results.

Adam Mosseri, head of Instagram, recently confirmed this update, explaining that the goal is to make Instagram content more discoverable and relevant to what users are actively searching for, not just passively scrolling through. This shift marks a significant change in how we approach content strategy: social and search are officially merging.

So, what does this mean for your content? Let's break it down.

Instagram + Google: Why This Matters

You're no longer just creating entertainment for the feed—you're creating for search.

This update means your posts can appear when people search for your industry, niche, or specific topics on Google. Google is becoming a second front door to your Instagram content, right alongside the Instagram Explore page or a saved post from a loyal follower.

And here's the kicker: Google prioritizes content that's saved, shared, and keyword-rich. If you've been treating captions like filler and hashtags like glitter, it's time to level up.

How to Make Your Instagram Content Search-Ready

If you want your content to show up in Google search, here's what to focus on:

Use real keywords in your captions

Consider what your audience is actually looking for. "Montana tattoo artist," "sustainable fashion Bozeman," or "quickbooks tips for freelancers" are a lot more potent than vague statements or emoji dumps.

Include 5–10 intentional hashtags

 Drop the fluff and use hashtags that actually help people find you. That means:

• Location tags (e.g., #BozemanMontana, #WestYellowstone)

• Industry-specific terms (e.g., #TattooEducation, #BookkeepingTips)

• Niche content categories (e.g., #EcoFashion, #CannabisEdibles)

• 
  

Hashtags = digital breadcrumbs. Use them to direct new visitors directly to your content.

Real Talk About Hashtags

Before I started Social Butterfly Digital in 2013, I was out here using hashtags like it was 2007—just throwing #whatever at the wall to see what stuck. #yolo #fail #hashtaggingLikeItsMyspace

Now? I practically beg clients to use them with a purpose.

Skip: #goodvibes, #blessed, #love, #nofilter, or my personal favorite—#selfie. (Groundbreaking, I know. File this (selfie) one under “master of the obvious.”)

Use: Hashtags like they're mini search engines—because now, they are.

What Kind of Content Gets Found?

Not all content is created equal, especially when it comes to discoverability. The following types of content consistently build visibility and trust:

1. Be the Guide, Not the Hero

2. Break down trends, explain the "why" behind changes, or share how-to content.

3. Insider Tips

4. Give your audience a behind-the-scenes peek or tools they can use right now

5. Lived Experience

6. Share what's worked for you—and what hasn't. People trust real stories.

7. Thought Leadership

8. Don't be afraid to share bold, original perspectives. It builds authority

   
   

Need Help Making It All Make Sense?

Social media moves fast, but your strategy doesn't have to fall behind. If your posts are getting buried, your hashtags are feeling stale, or your captions could use a boost in SEO, I've got you covered.

Let's make your content work harder—on the feed and in search. Book a free discovery call.