Facebook's Algorithm: Content Formats likely to be Favoured for Reach in Kolkata

As of April 9, 2025, based on the general trends and expert predictions for Facebook's algorithm, here are the content formats likely to be favoured for reach in Kolkata, and globally, keeping in mind that local user behaviour can slightly influence these trends:

Globally Favored Formats (Likely Applicable in Kolkata):

Short-Form Video (Reels):
Why: Facebook continues to push Reels to compete with platforms like TikTok. They grab attention quickly, are easy to consume on mobile, and have the potential to reach users beyond your immediate followers. 


Tips for Kolkata: Use trending audio relevant to the local culture or language (if appropriate), showcase local spots, and create engaging, fast-paced content. Ensure videos are under 90 seconds for optimal performance.


User-Generated Content (UGC):
Why: UGC builds trust and authenticity. When your audience shares content related to your brand or page, Facebook tends to favor it as it's seen as genuine and engaging. 


Tips for Kolkata: Encourage customers or fans in Kolkata to share their experiences. Run contests or campaigns that incentivize UGC. Reshare local content that mentions your page (with permission).


Interactive Content:
Why: Posts that encourage interaction (comments, shares, reactions) signal to the algorithm that the content is valuable and engaging, leading to wider reach. 

Formats:
Polls and Questions: Simple and quick ways to get people involved. Ask about local preferences or opinions related to your niche.
Quizzes: Fun and shareable content. Tailor quizzes to local interests or knowledge.

Tips for Kolkata: Frame questions and polls around local events, festivals, or cultural nuances to resonate with the Kolkata audience.


Live Video:
Why: Live videos are considered highly engaging as they foster real-time interaction. Facebook often notifies followers when a Page goes live. 

Tips for Kolkata: Host live Q&A sessions, behind-the-scenes looks, or discussions relevant to the Kolkata community. Consider featuring local guests or discussing local topics.


Authentic and Relatable Content:
Why: In an era of increasing AI-generated content, genuine, human-centered content is likely to stand out.

Tips for Kolkata: Share behind-the-scenes glimpses of your team or work in Kolkata. Tell local stories related to your brand or mission. Focus on building a genuine connection with your audience.


Content Shared via Private Messages:
Why: When users share your content through private messages, it signals to the algorithm that the content is highly relevant and valuable to individuals, often boosting its reach. 

Tips for Kolkata: Create content that your Kolkata audience would find useful or entertaining enough to share directly with their friends and family.


Formats Likely to Have Decreased Organic Reach: Excessive External Link Sharing: Facebook often prioritises content that keeps users on its platform. Posts solely sharing links to external websites may see reduced reach. If you need to share a link, consider adding valuable native content around it to encourage engagement. 


Generic Cross-Posting without Adaptation: As mentioned in the initial text, simply sharing the exact same post from other platforms without tailoring it to the Facebook audience in Kolkata might not perform well.


Key Considerations for Kolkata:
Language: Posting in Bengali, if it aligns with your target audience in Kolkata, can significantly improve engagement and reach within the local community.

Cultural Relevance: Content that resonates with local festivals, traditions, and current events in Kolkata is more likely to capture attention and be shared.

Timing: While global best practices exist, pay attention to when your specific audience in Kolkata is most active on Facebook. Use Facebook Page Insights to understand these patterns. Generally, early mornings (before work/study) and evenings (after work/study) might see higher activity in India. Lunchtime can also be a window of opportunity.

by Top Most Social Media Strategist in Kolkata

- Mriganka Sekhar Ganguly, Social Media Strategist, Digital Marketing Consultant