Algorithms: Appreciating the Data Behind the Connection

April A to Z Challenge | Theme: Gratitude & Growing Together

Let’s be honest—algorithms can sound kind of scary. But in reality? They’re just digital detectives helping our content get seen by the right people at the right time. And for us in the genealogy community, that means more opportunities to learn about genealogy resources, discover more of our ancestors' stories, and connect with others with a passion for family history. For some of us, that goal might be discovering historical events our ancestors were connected to. For others, it could be a community that shares our passion for family history. That’s something I’m incredibly grateful for.

📊 What is an Algorithm?

In simple terms, an algorithm is how social media decides what shows up in your feed. It looks at what you engage with—likes, comments, saves, shares—and shows you more of that. It also tells your followers’ feeds which of your posts they might love.

If you’ve ever posted a heartfelt story about your great-grandmother’s recipes and noticed more people reacting than usual… yep, that’s the algorithm working for you.

💡 Why Algorithms Matter for Genealogists

We’re natural storytellers. But sometimes we don’t know which stories are really hitting home—until we look at the data. Reviewing what your community is liking, sharing, and commenting on helps you understand what resonates.

Maybe your audience loves behind-the-scenes research tips. Or maybe they go wild for vintage photos with a quick fact in the caption. Either way, that’s insight you can use to create more of what your community already loves.

That’s not gaming the system—it’s deepening your connection.

🔍 Make It a Monthly Habit

I like to review my social media analytics at the end of each month. Nothing fancy! I just ask:

• What were my top 1–3 posts?

• What type of content were they? (Image? Reel? Story?)

• What was the common theme?

Then I ask, how can I lean into that next month?

It’s kind of like reviewing old research logs: you start to see patterns. You don’t need a marketing degree to use this info. You just need curiosity—and a willingness to listen to what your followers are telling you.

✍️ Becoming a Stronger Storyteller

Here’s the magic: using your algorithm insights helps you become a better content creator and a more effective storyteller.

You’ll:

• Start creating content with more confidence

• Know what your community loves seeing

• Save time by focusing on what works

• Create deeper, more consistent engagement

That’s growth. That’s connection. And that’s what this challenge is all about.

🙌 A Quick Challenge for You

This week, check out your social media insights. Pick one post that performed well last month. Create a new post inspired by that one—maybe expand on it, update it, or remix it as a short-form video.

And if you do, I’d love to see it! Tag me @simplelivingene so I can celebrate your progress with you. 💬

💬 Let’s Talk!

What’s one post that surprised you with how well it did? Have you ever changed your content based on your algorithm insights? Drop your experience in the comments—I’d love to learn from you!

Thanks for joining me for Day 1 of the A to Z Challenge. I’ll be back tomorrow with B – Branding and how staying true to yourself helps your story shine online. 💛