🎧 Listen to this blog post as a Podcast instead

Ever wondered why your Threads posts aren’t getting the reach you hoped for—or why some random post blew up overnight? In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly how the Threads algorithm works, what it prioritises, and how you can work with it (instead of feeling like you’re shouting into the void 😅).

We’re talking about what gets boosted, what holds you back, and simple, doable ways to get more eyes on your content without needing to post 24/7.

✨ You’ll learn:
✔️ How Threads chooses what to show people
✔️ Why engagement really matters (and what kind)
✔️ What content performs best right now
✔️ Actionable tips to boost your reach

Whether you’re brand new to Threads or already posting but seeing crickets, this is your guide to standing out and growing!

🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave a comment sharing your biggest takeaway.

How the Threads Algorithm Actually Works (And How to Win at It Without Burning Out)

If you’ve been eyeing up Threads and wondering how the heck to get seen on it, you’re not alone. Threads might look like just another Twitter clone on the surface but honestly, it’s a different beast. And if you’re only reposting your Instagram content and hoping for the best… well, I hate to break it to you, but that’s not gonna cut it.

Let’s dive into how Threads really works, what it rewards, and how you can use it to build an engaged audience, without feeling like you have to live on the app 24/7.

First things first: Threads rewards conversations, not content dumping.

It’s literally called Threads because it’s all about conversation threads. That means if you’re just posting and disappearing, your posts are probably getting buried. Threads wants you to be an active part of the chat, not just shouting into the void and logging off.

So here’s what we’re covering in today’s post:

✔️ How the Threads algorithm works

✔️ What content actually gets engagement

✔️ How to grow fast and stay sane

How the Threads Algorithm Actually Works

Threads is like a hybrid of Instagram and X (formerly Twitter). But unlike Instagram, Threads isn’t built around photos and reels... it’s a text-first platform. So if you’re not a fan of posting endless selfies and curated photos, Threads might just be your new favourite place.

But what boosts your reach on Threads?

Here are the four big things the algorithm loves:

1. Replies and conversations – The more replies you get, the better your post does. It’s that simple.

2. Early engagement – The quicker people comment after you post, the more your thread gets pushed out.

3. Consistent posting – Showing up daily keeps you visible.

4. Connecting with others – Leaving comments on other people’s posts increases your visibility too.

Basically, Threads is a social network, emphasis on the social. It rewards people who are genuinely interacting and contributing to conversations.

What Kills Your Reach on Threads?

Now for the flip side... what will quietly tank your reach:

🚩 Posting and ghosting.

🚩 Only sharing promotional content.

🚩 Ignoring replies.

Threads isn’t a “set it and forget it” kind of platform. It thrives on ongoing conversations. If you post once a week and don’t engage, it’s going to feel like shouting into an empty room.

The biggest mindset shift? Threads is about conversations, not aesthetics. If you’re trying to treat it like Instagram, you’re going to struggle.

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What Content Actually Works on Threads?

When I first joined Threads, I thought it was just a place to post random thoughts. But honestly? That doesn’t really work. Here’s what’s performing well right now:

✅ Hot takes and spicy opinions – These spark conversations. Think bold, discussion-worthy statements that invite people to share their own views. Example: “Hot take: handmade businesses don’t need Etsy to succeed. Change my mind.” 

✅ Polls and quick debates – Threads makes it super easy to create polls. Use them to invite fun, low-pressure interaction. Example: “Are you a morning person or night owl? Vote below!” 

✅ Funny, relatable content – Witty posts, memes, and observations do really well because they’re highly shareable.

✅ Behind-the-scenes and daily updates – People want to see you, not just your products. Share your wins, fails, and honest thoughts.

The golden rule? Keep it real, raw and unfiltered. Threads loves authenticity.

The 5 Biggest Mistakes That Hurt Your Reach

If you’re not seeing engagement, you might be making one (or more) of these mistakes:

1. Treating Threads like Instagram (it’s not a photo-first platform).

2. Only talking at people, instead of with people.

3. Not replying to comments (you’re missing a huge opportunity for visibility).

4. Being too formal (Threads is casual, chatty, and fast-paced).

5. Posting without a hook (you need to grab attention fast).

Fix these five things, and you’ll see a big difference.

Your Posting Strategy for Threads

So, how often should you post? Here’s the deal:

👉 Aim for 1–3 posts per day.

👉 Reply to 5–10 other threads per day.

👉 Engage before and after posting (like an “engagement sandwich”).

👉 Mix up your content—polls, opinions, relatable takes, behind-the-scenes.

And here’s a top tip: if a post flops, don’t delete it. Comment on it to revive the thread and keep the conversation going.

How to Get More Comments and Shares

Want more engagement? Try these tricks:

✔️ Ask open-ended questions (beyond yes/no).

✔️ Use humour and relatable content.

✔️ Reply to every comment.

✔️ Use calls to action (like “What do you think? Drop your thoughts below.”).

✔️ Tag people into conversations.

Example: instead of posting “Threads is interesting”, post “Hot take: Threads is already better than Twitter. Change my mind.” See how that sparks discussion?

How to Get Threads to Recommend Your Posts

Here’s how to boost your chances of showing up on more feeds:

✅ Be an early adopter (get active on Threads now).

✅ Engage with trending topics.

✅ Reply to viral posts for more visibility.

✅ Start real conversations.

✅ Cross-promote your Threads posts on Instagram.

✅ Post at peak times (mornings and evenings work well).

Threads rewards active users, so the more you show up, the more you’ll get shown.

Final Thoughts + Your Action Plan

Threads is all about conversations. If you want to grow, you need to:

💬 Post daily and reply often.

💬 Keep it casual, fun, and chatty.

💬 Start conversations—not just make statements.

💬 Use polls and humour to get your audience talking.

💬 Jump into trending topics to be discovered by new people.

The bottom line? The more you interact, the more reach you get. It’s social media in the truest sense.

I hope this breakdown helps you feel confident about using Threads to grow your audience! Got questions or tips of your own? Come chat with me over on Threads @HandmadeBosses.

See you next time! 💕

Love Steph xox

👋 Welcome everyone! My name is Steph, I've been running my handmade business full time on Etsy since 2016, and I'm here to help you! 

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