Why BlueSky and Other Platforms Are Abandoning Hashtags

Why BlueSky and Other Platforms Are Abandoning Hashtags

Hashtags have been marketed as the golden ticket to online visibility for years. But here’s the hard truth: they don’t work the way you think they do. Unless someone is actively searching for a hashtag, they’re not seeing your post. I said this two years ago, and guess what? Nobody believed me.

Fast forward to today, and the evidence is undeniable. Marques Brownlee — arguably one of the most respected tech reviewers — interviewed Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri, who confirmed it: hashtags don’t actually improve visibility. Elon Musk said the same thing about Twitter, and BlueSky has taken it a step further by not supporting hashtags at all. Even on LinkedIn, my impressions remain the same whether I use hashtags or not. This trend shows a significant shift in how platforms view the role of hashtags in content discovery.

The Reality Behind Hashtags

If you read the documentation provided by these platforms, the truth about hashtags is there in black and white. They were never the magical engagement tool influencers made them out to be. But here’s the thing: influencers thrive on oversimplified narratives. They’ll tell you hashtags are essential, and all you need is the right “hashtag hack” to go viral. Why? Because it’s easier to sell a dream than the reality of hard work.

Let’s set the record straight. Hashtags might have worked for campaigns specifically engineered around them, but they were never the key to organic reach. Platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn prioritize engagement, content quality, and timing far more than a string of hashtags.

Question the Noise

The bigger issue here isn’t just hashtags — it’s the blind trust people place in “marketing hacks.” Too often, we follow advice that sounds good but falls apart when you look closer. Think about it: how many influencers are pushing quick fixes for success? How often do they promise shortcuts to viral fame or financial freedom without showing the fine print?

Instead of taking everything at face value, start questioning it. Ask yourself:

• Is this real?
• Does this make sense?
• Is it viable for my business or audience?

When you stop chasing the noise and start focusing on critical thinking, you’ll find that success comes from understanding the fundamentals and applying them consistently. There are no shortcuts — just strategies that stand the test of time.

Build Something Real

So, what should you focus on instead of hashtags? Craft content that resonates. Build a brand that people trust and remember. Foster real engagement by connecting with your audience in meaningful ways. The platforms are evolving, and your approach should too.

The question isn’t whether hashtags work; it’s whether you’re willing to look beyond the hype and build something that does.

If you’re looking for more real marketing advice that questions the status quo, sign up for my Medium newsletter. Let’s cut through the noise together and focus on what truly works.

Think critically. Do the research. Don’t just follow the noise — think for yourself.