Are hashtags still truly useful in 2025? Yes — they remain key tools to increase visibility on social media. When used correctly, hashtags are essential for reaching the right audience, building connections, and boosting engagement.
But be careful: each platform has its own rules, and mastering them makes all the difference.
What are hashtags for?
Organizing content: Hashtags help categorize posts by topic. For example, a plumbing business on the North Shore could use the hashtag #NorthShorePlumber to identify its content. A user searching for “emergency plumber Blainville” could then be shown that post, better aligned with their needs.
Expanding reach: When chosen wisely, hashtags help you reach a wider audience beyond your immediate community. They act as gateways to new users who don’t follow you yet but are interested in related topics. For instance, content using targeted hashtags like #HomeRenovation or #EmergencyPlumbing can appear in search results or feeds of users actively looking for those services — a simple yet effective way to boost visibility and generate organic engagement from a qualified audience.
Joining conversations: Hashtags are also entry points into ongoing discussions. By using them strategically, a brand can join trending topics, events, or social movements — whether it’s an international day (#WorldWaterDay), a local event (#NationalHoliday), or a current social issue (#GreenEconomy). It’s a chance to show reactivity, commitment, and relevance in the digital world.
Strengthening brand image: Creating and using your own branded hashtags can reinforce identity and unite a community around your world. Whether it’s a slogan, campaign name, or unique concept (#DrainvacSpirit, #MissionZeroLeak), these hashtags become touchpoints for your audience and rallying symbols. They encourage interaction, sharing, and identification with the brand — while amplifying its online presence in a consistent and authentic way.
How to choose the right hashtags
Relevance first: Hashtags must be directly related to the content. Off-topic tags weaken targeting quality and may hurt the brand’s credibility.
Measured popularity: Highly popular hashtags (like #Love or #Fashion) are used millions of times, making your post invisible in seconds. It’s more effective to mix in medium or low-volume hashtags for longer visibility.
Precision: In 2025, algorithms favor content that addresses specific intent. Local or niche hashtags (#NorthShorePlumber, #MontrealBakery) perform well in attracting a qualified audience.
Strategic mix: A solid strategy often includes:
- 1 to 2 popular hashtags (wide reach, low targeted engagement)
- 3 to 5 intermediate hashtags (good balance)
- 3 to 5 niche hashtags (high engagement, targeted reach)
Constant monitoring: Trends shift fast. Tools like Instagram Trends, TikTok Creative Center, or third-party platforms help you track emerging hashtags in your sector and adapt your strategy. For more insights, check out our article on 2025 digital trends.
Platform-specific guidelines
- Moderate use: 1 to 3 hashtags max
- Focus on specific events or topics over quantity
- Up to 30 allowed, but 5–10 well-chosen ones are more effective
- Alternate between communities, themes, and locations for greater reach
Threads
- One hashtag is enough to categorize content effectively
X (formerly Twitter)
- No hashtags
- 3 to 5 targeted hashtags
- Mix between industries, professions, and current themes
YouTube
- 10 to 15 hashtags
- Choose ones that clearly describe your content to improve discoverability
- Don’t forget to include: #Shorts #YourIndustryShorts #YouTubeShorts
TikTok
- Hashtags are essential for visibility
- Mix popular, specific, and general hashtags
- 4 to 7 well-curated hashtags are enough to boost your videos
- Must-haves: #FYP #Trending #YourIndustryTikTok
A good hashtag is an open invitation to discover your world. By tailoring your strategy to each platform and staying on top of trends, you maximize the impact of every post.
Want to optimize your social media hashtags or build a custom strategy for your brand? Contact BDK today.
