Why We're Moving Away From Hashtags (And Why You Might Want To, Too)

As experienced social media managers, it’s our job to keep an eye on the ever-evolving trends and shifts across platforms. One change we've fully embraced lately is the quiet but steady move away from hashtags—and here’s why we think it's worth your attention.

If you've worked with us at The Sabai Jai Project, you’ve probably heard us mention more than once: hashtags often feel clunky. While they once played a key role in discovery, over time they’ve started to interrupt the natural flow of thoughtful captions. Instead of adding value, they can clutter the message and feel disconnected from the real purpose—genuine connection.

Now, the platforms themselves are validating this shift. X has nearly eliminated hashtags entirely, while Instagram and LinkedIn have updated their algorithms to prioritize content based on engagement, relevance, and strong keyword use—not hashtag saturation. These platforms are getting smarter, focusing more on authentic interactions and less on old-school tactics.

Because of this, we’ve made the conscious decision to phase out heavy hashtag use in much of the content we create. That said, we always collaborate with our clients—if hashtags still play a strategic role in your audience engagement, we’re happy to incorporate them intentionally.

For us, though, this shift feels refreshing. It’s aligned with how we’ve always approached social media: focusing on clarity, connection, and stress-free simplicity. Cleaner captions, more meaningful messaging, and no unnecessary clutter.
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Ready to refine your social strategy and keep things aligned with how people actually engage today? Let’s chat about how to simplify and strengthen your online presence.