Instagram quickly became one of the most common social media networks for everyone. While it was popular from the very beginning, its acquisition by Facebook and adding a game-changes feature – Instagram Stories gave it an additional boost. Brands found out that they need to be active on Instagram in order to attract their audience. While using Instagram seems to be a piece of cake, it is not that simple as it seems to be. How can you use Instagram and what to do to achieve success on this platform? We are going to reveal it tonight.
How to use Instagram – first steps
Of course, to use Instagram actively… you need to set up your own account. You should choose whether the personal one will be enough for your needs, or you have to configure a business one (then you need to connect it with your Facebook Page). There are some pros and cons of each option. The business one seems to be a bit of a faff, however, bearing in mind you can add products and then use them on Instagram as tags, and you have access to more detailed analytics, this may be a way to go. Setting up a personal account is way easier and quicker, but does not come with the aforementioned benefits.
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How to use Instagram – grow your profile
There are so many profiles on Instagram that, in order to stand out, you need to be not only present but more importantly, active. Posting amazing photos and coming up with some ideas for breathtaking captions and jaw-dropping Instagram stories is not enough! You need to show your potential followers that… you are worth following.
There are a few ways of attracting new followers to your profile:
- look at some relevant hashtags, click on them and find out who post them. Who knows, maybe they are your perfect audience? (For example, you are running a small cafe on Marlon Street in London. Looking at #london hashtag may be troublesome, but #marlonstreet or #marlonstreetlondon can actually consist of photos from your neighbours and locals).
- go through your competitors following lists and find out who could suit your criteria. Follow them, comment on their photos, you can sometimes repost it to your story if you feel like it.
- run some giveaways or contests, but always doublecheck the rules. if you run a small, local restaurant in Thailand, you probably do not want to send an exclusive invite for a local dinner to someone located in France, since there is a little chance they come, and even a smaller one that they will come back to your restaurant again?
- paid campaigns are always a good idea and they can help you grow your profile in no time if they are targeted well. What is more, Instagram campaigns are usually cheaper than Facebook ones, so you may want to give it a go.
Instagram is a really fun social media to play with, no matter if you want to promote your business there or simply scroll Instagram up and down. It can be a great addition to your existing marketing strategy if you give it a go and play with this for a while. Good luck with your Instagram game!
