Instagram has become a potent marketing tool because of its image-driven feed. With more than 500 million users acquired in nine years, this social network has launched the careers of countless fashion models, professional photographers, and fitness coaches to name a few.
The platform’s capability to reward fantastic imagery has enticed companies to integrate Instagram into their promotional campaigns as well. Who wouldn’t want a free tool that can generate massive engagement over one perfectly orchestrated post? Add related hashtags and the campaign is in full swing.
Despite the convenience that it offers, Instagram marketing success takes more than just posting on a regular basis. Here are other ways to bring your message across a broader network.
Sign up for a business profile
The call-to-action button alone is enough of a reason to apply for an Instagram for Business account. Another major pro is the Insights feature, which will give you a better idea as to how customers engage with your brand. You can use this information to improve your marketing initiatives for loyal clients and create campaigns to tap new markets.
Having a business account provides the opportunity to post your contact details, making you more accessible for inquiries. Consider customer’s opinions to be free market research. You keep on doing what they commend you for and work on the complaints they express.
Avoid overposting
Daily updates are good as long as you don’t go overboard. Bombarding your followers with a storm of updates, however, will move them to unfollow your account. That said, there’s no exact science regarding the effective volume of posts. Constant testing and assessment must be done to arrive at the frequency that your subscribers will enjoy.
Posting two updates during peak engagement times is a good start. From there, you can either add or subtract depending on what the Insights feature reveals. Once you’ve discovered what works, make sure that you reevaluate your strategy from time to time. Optimal posting times can change—especially if you have acquired a global audience. Therefore, the experiment never stops until you come up with the best timing. You can also consult case studies conducted by Instagram marketing management firms of brands similar to your business.
Be a brand that followers can talk to
Any Instagram marketing company will tell you that you need to develop your voice in connecting with your audience. The goal is to ensure that visitors feel as if they were talking to a real person and not an automated machine. Talking to your customers is the first step towards building loyalty. Never take the opportunity of interacting with them for granted.
Acquiring new followers is easy using the “tag your friends” technique. Your reach is multiplied every time your fans share your post to three or five friends who may enjoy your brand as well. Responding to fan comments—whether good or bad—is an effective way to foster conversation.
Expand to other social media platforms
Instagram marketing is not only limited to the platform itself. Rather, its potential can be maximized when you expand to other social networks. Cross-posting some of your posts on Facebook and Twitter will funnel more users to your Instagram account.
As your exposure multiplies, so too will the number of customers who will patronize your brand. More people will be able to see your announcements on discounts, product launches, and contests. Reposting pictures with proper credit from related brands can be explored but only on a last resort basis. It’s still best to use your own images that adhere to your marketing objectives.
// Conclusion
If pictures do paint a thousand words, Instagram is your canvas to execute successful campaigns. Your marketing objectives will be your palette in creating promotions that sell. If you have no idea on how to make it work, let an Instagram marketing service provider be your artist in completing the masterpiece.
If you’re looking for a social media management platform to help streamline your digital marketing plan, get in touch with us today to see how we can help!