In today’s fast-paced world of hashtags, newsfeeds and likes, social media marketing is a no-brainer for a business. Having a social media presence not only expands your audience, but allows for creativity and brand development on easy-to-use platforms. Facebook is, of course, one of the most popular, but Instagram also offers great features and ways for businesses to build a following. Learn how to market your business on Instagram and enhance your brand awareness.
1. Be Creative
Above all, Instagram is a platform for pictures. Having visually appealing and thought-provoking images is the number one step for utilizing this platform. Since most social media users simply scroll through their feeds several times a day, you’ll want your images to create a call to action, even if it’s just hitting the “like” button.
2. Use Hashtags Properly
Hashtags are essentially how information gets categorized and spread over Instagram. Do your research about which hashtags are appropriate to use for your business, and know what to include to get views. Steer clear of irrelevant or too-broad words, and opt instead for terms that are fitting to your post.
3. Don’t Over-Post
Unlike Twitter, where brands and celebrities often post several times a day, Instagram is most effective when you limit the amount you post per day. Having one solid image and message per day is going to be more effective than posting a bunch, and the algorithm Instagram uses to display information is more likely to respond to posts that don’t seem like spam.
4. Know When to Post
Do some research about what time of day is likely to be the most fruitful for your audience. For example, if you’re posting about a one-day sale, you’ll want to post that information a bit in advance to ensure your followers see it. Though most people check their social media apps throughout the day, posting in the evenings when people are home from work is a good way to get views.
5. Interact
Consumers like when brands are personable and interact with them on social media. If you get questions or comments, like or respond to them. It shows that your business is run by actual people and keeps your posts “active” so that more interactions are encouraged. One great way to do this is to use Instagram stories. You can create polls, ask questions, supply links and tag others easily.
Above all, keep it fun and professional when you are marketing on Instagram for your business. Developing a “voice” on this platform is essential if you want to keep up with the times. Instagram influencers are growing, and business tools are improving every day, so if you’re not using it yet, #getwithit!
