3 Ways to Grow Your Instagram Following
With over 1 billion users, Instagram can seem like an intimidating platform when first starting out. Luckily, the abundance of individuals allows for ample opportunities for you to grow an audience! Yet, the ever-changing Instagram algorithm can make it difficult to stand out at first, especially in comparison to already established accounts.
But don’t worry! Whether you are a small business trying to promote your brand or a blogger looking to increase account engagement, here are 3 fool-proof ways you can beat the algorithm and organically grow your Instagram following today.
Engage, Engage, Engage
Respond to comments, like posts, and interact with your followers! Forming meaningful relationships on Instagram is critical to growing your audience. Engaging with other Instagram accounts builds a loyal community, reflects positively on your brand identity, and allows you to discover new accounts. Be strategic with who you engage with and focus your efforts on individuals in your target market. These consumers will be more likely to engage back with you.
Engagement also keeps you informed on the latest social media trends, allowing for your content to stay competitive in the social media landscape.
Here are some easy ways to practice engaging:
Respond to comments on your post with personalized messages.
Like and comment on the content of those you follow.
When following a new account, like their five most recent posts and leave a genuine, personal comment.
Mix up your content
Instagram supports a wide variety of content styles - such as pictures, Reels, IGTV, stories - so use them! Audiences enjoy seeing a mix of media and implementing different content forms will make your profile more interesting for viewers. Recent studies concluded videos have higher engagement rates on Instagram than photos, so take full advantage of this opportunity.
Use these content ideas to expand your feed:
Reels - Instagram’s newest feature mimicking TikTok. Use Reels to share short videos such as skincare routines, outfit ideas, or try the latest dance trend! Bonus: you can post TikToks on Reels, so one video gives you content for two platforms.
IGTV - IGTVs are great for longer, informational videos. Try implementing a weekly IGTV series to engage with your followers!
User-Generated Content - Post photos or videos created by your audience, such as reviews, product demos, or creative shots. This is a great way to increase consumer trust, promote brand authenticity, and engage your audience.
Utilize hashtags
Hashtags are extremely important when it comes to increasing engagement and growing your audience. Add hashtags directly in your caption or as a comment on each post. Hashtags promote your account by making your posts accessible if a hashtag is searched or, if people follow the hashtags used, your posts will show up directly in their feed. The ideal number of hashtags is 11, but aim to use between 7 to 30 hashtags per post. Use a variety of seasonal, trending, niche, and general hashtags to ensure the greatest reach.
Here are some hashtag categories to consider:
Niche - Specific and detailed hashtags accurately represent your content. These hashtags often have less posts, allowing for your content to be found more easily by a more tailored audience (ex. #paleobaking, #minimalistcloset).
Seasonal - Seasonal hashtags are a great way to stay relevant with consumer needs and find new audiences. For example, use winter holiday hashtags to promote your product as the perfect gift (#holidaygifts, #stockingstuffers).
Relevant Phrases - Similar to Niche, these insider hashtags are often followed by community members and engaged audiences (ex. #iamwellandgood, #endthestigma). Be sure to pick phrases that encompass your brand values.
Instagram’s ever-changing algorithm requires content creators to always be on their toes, but it’s still possible to grow a genuine, engaged audience. As long as you engage with your audience, create a variety of content, and use hashtags to your advantage, you are set up for success!
