Stop Using Hashtags Wrong: Why They Still Matter and How to Make Them Work in 2025
Let’s get one thing out of the way: hashtags aren’t dead. They’re just tired of being misused by marketers who copy-paste the same recycled strategy and wonder why their engagement tanks. If you've ever typed “#marketingislife” and expected it to rank on TikTok, we need to talk.
At Rebel Marketing, we’re here to squash the hashtag myths, break down what works, and help you craft a strategy that doesn’t scream “I let AI write this for me.”
The Hashtag Hysteria
A few weeks ago, LinkedIn became a digital bonfire. One post boldly declared that hashtags no longer work. Then came the copycats. Post after post, each one with the same drama, the same generic tone, and, brace yourself, clearly written by ChatGPT without any editing.
Here’s the truth: hashtags still work. They just don’t work when you’re doing them wrong.
Why Hashtags Still Matter (Yes, Even in 2025)
Think of hashtags as a library’s filing system. They categorize your content so platforms like Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and even YouTube know what your post is about. That makes it easier for the algorithm to show your content to people who actually care. Sounds obvious, right? But the number of businesses still using #blessed and #girlboss in 2025 is... troubling.
On TikTok, for example, if you want your video about outdoor furniture to get in front of homeowners, it helps to tag it with #outdoorfurniture or #patiodecor. That way, when someone searches for those terms, boom, you show up.
Even better? Hashtags on TikTok and Instagram are searchable. People use them to find stuff. So if you're not tagging smartly, you're hiding your post from the people who might actually buy from you.
What Happens When You Use Hashtags Wrong
You’ve probably seen it, or done it. Maybe a ChatGPT prompt gave you hashtags like #LandscapingIsLove or #GrowthGoals2025. Cute, but useless. If no one is searching for that hashtag or using it themselves, it doesn’t help your post get discovered.
Worse, using a ton of random, irrelevant hashtags makes your post look spammy. It confuses the algorithm and turns off potential followers.
Here’s what not to do:
Using 30 hashtags just because someone told you to
Creating hashtags no one’s searching for
Adding trending tags that have nothing to do with your post (don’t hashtag the Kentucky Derby on a post about your HVAC service. Yes, we’ve seen it.)
Using #influencerlife on LinkedIn as a corporate account
Hashtag Strategy That Actually Works
So what should you do? Glad you asked.
1. Think Like a Searcher
What would you search for if you were looking for your post? Try it. Go on Instagram or TikTok, hit the search bar, and type in a few words. Platforms will show you related hashtags and how many posts are attached to them. That’s your goldmine.
2. Use the Goldilocks Method
Not too broad, not too niche. Just right.
#Marketing (too broad)
#SmallBusinessMarketing (better)
#SmallBusinessMarketingColumbusOH (hyper-specific and still searchable)
You want a mix of high-volume and mid-volume tags so your content isn’t lost in the void or buried in a hashtag that’s never been clicked.
3. Keep It Tight
Don’t use more than you need. On Instagram, 3–5 hashtags is the sweet spot. On TikTok, include a few targeted ones, plus any relevant trends. On LinkedIn, keep it clean and relevant. Fewer hashtags with better targeting will always beat 30 half-baked ones.
4. Create a Branded Hashtag (But Promote It)
Got a conference or community event? Create a hashtag. But here’s the catch, it won’t work unless you promote it. Use it everywhere: signage, emails, name tags, slide decks, you name it. Encourage attendees to tag their posts with it. That creates a searchable library of user-generated content that keeps the buzz going long after the event ends.
5. Refresh Often
Hashtag trends shift. Review and adjust your go-to tags every few months. If you’re always using the same set from 2021, it’s time for an update. Don’t be that person tagging #girlboss in a professional post. It’s 2025. We’ve moved on.
A Note on AI Hashtags
We’re not anti-AI. We’re anti-lazy-AI. If you’re going to use tools like ChatGPT for hashtag ideas, double check them. Look up what people are actually using. Don’t blindly trust a list that sounds like it came from a Hallmark card.
“Hashtag influencer life”? Please.
Bonus: Don’t Fake Trends
One of our biggest pet peeves is when people hijack trending hashtags just to get views. You’re watching a TikTok about a recipe, and suddenly it’s tagged with #YoungSheldon or #KentuckyDerby. Why? Because someone wanted to ride the wave and thought they were being clever. But it doesn’t work. It’s annoying. And now you’ve lost a potential follower.
Bottom line: If it’s not related, don’t use it.
Hashtags Are Not Magic, But They Are Powerful
Hashtags won’t save a terrible post. But when paired with solid content and clear messaging, they can absolutely help the right people find you. Whether you’re a service provider, coach, consultant, or conference host, hashtags help your content get seen, shared, and saved.
You just have to use them like you mean it.
TL;DR
Hashtags still matter.
Don’t let ChatGPT write them without reviewing.
Use hashtags that your audience is actually searching for.
Mix broad and niche.
Create and promote branded tags for events.
Don’t fake it. The internet can smell desperation.
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And if you’re sick of wasting time on marketing fluff, let’s talk. We build bold strategies that actually make sense.
Catch you in the next article, rebels. Keep it real.