The first step to starting a successful Instagram brand is to get an adorable puppy. Just kidding, but that’s what I did.
Building a strong brand on Instagram for your business isn’t just important - it’s essential. Out of the 1 billion active users on Instagram, 80% of accounts follow at least one business. So it’s no surprise that marketers are eager to build a presence and make money on this social media platform.
But in order to have active engagement (and make the big bucks) on your IG, you first need to have a substantial amount of followers. More followers mean more interactions, better visibility and a stronger online presence.
Below are a few tips on how to grow your fan base as well as links to Instagram accounts that I think are worth following and learning from.
BE CONSISTENT:
Instagram has the highest interaction levels of any social media platform. If you are hoping to connect with people, you first need to give them something to respond to. Posting unique and creative content in a timely manner can have a huge impact on growing your following.
In order to get noticed, you need to be putting quality content out there on a regular basis. People are looking for consistency from brands they follow. Having a feed with a consistent theme running through will entice new followers when they take a first glance at your profile. Think of your last 9 posts as your first impression on IG.
Brown Cow Yogurt, pictured here, is not only delicious, they are a very personable, approachable brand that has a consistent voice on social media.
DYNAMIC AND CREATIVE CONTENT:
No strategy can replace creative content. You can follow all of the steps for growing your fan base, but if the content isn’t there people will lose interest in your brand.
Your IG account can be the difference between giving your brand credibility, and scaring your potential followers into the arms of your competition. Being creative and standing out is essential if you want potential followers to notice you.
Remember there’s more to IG than just photos. While images are a great way to share content on a daily basis, don’t be afraid to experiment with videos, stories and IGTV. It’s a good way to diversify your content and showcase your personality.
sackcloth & ashes, shown to the left, is a strong example of showcasing their customers and and utilizing user generated content.
DON’T COMPARE YOURSELF TO OTHERS:
There’s nothing wrong with being inspired by other accounts. But there’s a difference between using another account for inspiration and trying to copy someone else’s style. Your IG should be unique to your brand. Give people a reason to follow you by standing out from the rest.
It’s hard not to compare yourself to other brand’s IG with huge followings, but keep in mind not all followers are created equal. Many companies pay for followers, or use other techniques to inflate their following. Tracking your growth and setting realistic goals will keep you sane. It won’t happen over night, but it will be better quality than a quick fix.
BE AN ACTIVE USER:
As I mentioned above, having creative visual content is essential for your Instagram’s success, but it wont matter how beautiful your images are if people don’t see them. Regular engagement on Instagram can help grow your brand’s visibility. Comment on posts, always “like” other’s content, reply to comments and messages and utilize hashtags.
Hoot + Co is a fantastic example of a business account that does a great job of sharing user content, reposting, and hosting giveaways. This type of content brings more users to their page.
It’s important to grow a relationship with the community that follows your on Instagram. Social should be social, and starting a conversation by replying to those who talk to you can help you actively engage with your following.
Are you interested in learning more about curating your brand to have a consistent, dynamic, genuine, and active voice on social media? Contact Oswego Creative today.
By Sarah Moore