There is a lot of talk surrounding the changes that Instagram is making to their algorithms and advertising. We aren’t sure yet how those changes are going to affect how we use Instagram as a marketing tool, but for now, let’s get back to the basics of how to engage your customers and perpetuating genuine interest in your brand.
The thing about Instagram that isn’t changing is that it is an opt-in marketing tool that isn’t perceived by users to be primarily marketing. Twice as many Instagram users regularly engage with brands than Facebook users. It is also one of the few social media platforms where it is possible to create awareness for free, for now.
Since 2012, Instagram has had a 115% increase in organic (without paid ads) marketing reach, while Facebook has had a 63% decrease. Instagram also has 58 times more engagement per follower than Facebook.
One last statistic — only 38% of marketers are using Instagram, while 93% use Facebook. So now is the time to jump on board.
1. Give them a reason.
Give your audience a reason to follow, like and share. There are a few ways to do this. To really generate activity — incentives are key. Prizes work wonders. It gives people a reason to follow your brand and share your posts.
As a user, having your post re-posted is like winning a gold medal. By reposting user photos, you are further engaging them and increasing brand loyalty as well as giving others reason to use your hashtag when posting.
2. Have relatable and creative content.
Humor and inspiration are two popular methods. Exceptionally beautiful or unique photos will generate shares as well. Users will tag their friends and will organically grow your following.
Have a consistent look when possible and of course use images that appeal to your audience. Find a way to make everyday content artsy — that is the fun part.
3. #hashtags.
Yes, they might be overused and somewhat obnoxious when there are 30 (this is the maximum) for one post. But they are important for being searchable and to drive engagement. Choose a unique hashtag to be your own that is as simple and as fitting as possible.
It is also important to use other relevant hashtags on your posts to make your post show up in searches — generating followers. Posts with 11 or more hashtags statistically get the most engagement.
4. Make the most of your posts.
Send your Instagram posts to your other social media platforms to get maximum engagement out of each photo. Be sure to post on the weekends — the most effective days to post are Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Lastly, be sure to have a link in your bio section to drive your audience to your target content.
These are just the basics – the possibilities are certainly endless on Instagram. Get creative and take advantage of this free platform while it is still free.
Source for statistics: https://selfstartr.com/why-brands-should-embrace-instagram-instead-of-facebook/
Katie O’Hara, Project Manager at Jet Marketing
Katie loves Instagram because of the creativity and art it has added to social media. She also enjoys using it to grab her favorite moments and put them in pretty little squares. @kokatieo
