A Beginner’s Instagram Guide: How to Market on the Platform
Instagram may seem like an enigma to many businesses that haven’t quite conquered the platform just yet. There are sporadic timeline posts and an algorithm that seems to change every day. A lot of companies feel like they’ll never break the code to success on this social media gameboard.
However, there are some key factors that contribute to effective marketing on Instagram. If you’re looking to build a following, grow your business or even increase sales, check out this quick Instagram guide to help you navigate.
Make Good Content
Before you start thinking about a color scheme or promoting your products, be sure to put the time and effort into making actual good content. Above all, delivering quality and value to your audience will be one of the best marketing strategies there is.
The more you can offer to your audience, the more they’ll want to come back to you. Focus on getting your followers to know, like and trust you before anything. This can be done by making the type of content that they actually want and need.
Whether it’s infographics or video format, be sure that it is a resource to your visitors. Think about whether you want to be educational, informative or entertaining. You can also be a mixture.
Optimize Your Profile
Your bio is the first that people see when they come to your page. This is the area that will help them to identify what you do. Tell people exactly who you are and what your business does.
Depending on your audience, it may be helpful to also use things like emojis and hashtags to make your bio stand out and be more relatable.
Engage with Your Audience
Before you ask for anything, you want to build a community. Do this by consistently engaging with your audience. This includes answering comments on your profile and others, doing lives and asking questions to your audience.
Use Hashtags Properly
Hashtags are a powerful tool so that definitely has to be added to this Instagram guide. You’re currently allowed to use up to 30 hashtags per post. Be sure that you are using ones that are relevant to your industry.
Avoid overusing the same hashtag combinations, as this can lead to being shadowbanned. Stay up-to-date on any trends that may open up new hashtag possibilities for you to take advantage of.
Leverage Collaboration
One of the most common ways to grow a following and market your business successfully is cross-promotion with another company. You can implement collaborative efforts on Instagram by partnering with others to do things like giveaways and contests.
Build a Brand
One downfall of many businesses is getting on Instagram and simply posting pictures, hoping that people will follow. Instead, focus on building a brand that people can identify with. Stay consistent in your message and content.
Try Paid Ads
Instagram ads allow you to reach a larger audience and get more eyes on your content. Although this is not a free method, putting some funds into paid ads could help to grow your business.
Do Live Stories
Instagram “stories” feature is a great way to boost engagement and get creative with your video marketing. Don’t skip out on including stories in your marketing strategy.
Follow This Instagram Guide for Efficient Marketing
Success on social media won’t be overnight but it is possible. Use the tips in this Instagram guide to help you achieve your desired results. Remember to be consistent and patient overall.
At Denver Digital, we understand the importance of driving organic and paid traffic from social media. Contact us today to find out how we can help your business build a loyal following.
