Would it surprise you to learn that the visually-oriented social media platform Instagram has over one billion users?
There is no denying that this site is incredibly popular. What’s more, its most loyal demographics — young people age 18 to 35 — have an awful lot of spending power.
So it’s important that your company has a presence there.
Even getting established on IG can be daunting, never mind gaining a foothold. If you are wondering how to get noticed on Instagram, this post is for you!
Read on for a primer to one of the internet’s most widely used social media sites.
1. Come Up with a Dedicated Hashtag…
You’ve seen people using hashtags, but maybe you’re not too sure how to go about them yourself. Probably the best tip we can give you is to use them thoughtfully.
Don’t just dump every conceivable hashtag into your post. Make sure they are applicable and relevant.
Another good idea is to use a dedicated hashtag, for your business in general as well as for any special events or newsworthy activities. Dedicated hashtags that incorporate your business name can help boost brand awareness.
2. …and Cross-Promote It
Once you have your hashtag(s) all hashed out, be sure to use them — and not just on IG! Include them in all social media posts, regardless of platform.
Put them on your receipts, signage, email blasts, print ads. Mention them in TV and radio ads.
The wider the exposure, the better.
3. Tap Into Trends…
Social media moves quickly. What’s hot and happening one week might be passe and played out the next. It’s important to stay up-to-date.
If you’re not an IG user yourself, find an employee who is and ask them to pitch in.
Whenever something exciting is happening, especially if the content is relevant to your industry, you will want to join the conversation.
Make note of the trending hashtags; if you can use them smoothly, without too much of a stretch, do so.
4. …But Don’t Try Too Hard
One pitfall that some small- and medium-sized business owners sometimes succumb to is trying too hard to be edgy, cool, or hip.
As every teenager will tell you, there’s nothing quite so pathetic as a parent scrambling to keep up with slang or stay in the loop.
You run the risk of alienating followers if you forego your own brand voice to sound more trend-savvy. Misplaced snark and uncharacteristic irony have gotten more than one social media manager into hot water.
So find your voice and stick with it.
5. Social Media Is Social!
Instagram isn’t just a store window to show off your goods or services, or an advertisement that sings your praises.
It’s a place to have a conversation with customers.
Make sure you respond to their overtures, answer their questions, and comment on their content.
Invite them to use your hashtags, post pics of your product, and otherwise engage with your brand.
Now That You Know How to Get Noticed on Instagram
Of course, this list barely scratches the surface. There are many, many more tips for how to get noticed on Instagram.
It’s time to put these tips into practice!
We hope this post has inspired you, but if you feel more overwhelmed than excited, why not give us a call?
We’d be happy to take the hashtags out of your hands — leaving you to focus on your core business.
