Member Article

Tips for Using Instagram for Business

With over 500 million users worldwide; Instagram has effectively become the most advantageous social media marketing tool for businesses. The captivating allure of attractive photography has long held it’s reputation of leaving a mark on all those who behold it. However, with increasing competition; it has now become imperative that businesses equip themselves with the right tools to capitalize on the benefits of this raging platform and stand out from the rest. So, below we have a set of the most useful tips for using Instagram for businesses:

Tip # 1. Develop Your Instagram Strategy:

As with everything else; begin with the end in mind. Identify your social media marketing requirements and then define steps to achieve them, the number of hours to spend daily/ weekly. This will help you in deploying a reasonable amount of resources and increasing your ROI.

Tip # 2. Set SMART Objectives:

Set SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and timely) objectives for your Instagram strategy to keep resource utilization optimum and your team motivated. Your Instagram strategy can include goals like increase in number of Instagram followers, number of user-generated content posted, etc.

Tip # 3. Develop Your Profile Theme:

Business should develop their profile theme such that it supports their strategy and all posts should then thoroughly reflect that theme. The notion behind developing a profile theme is to enrich, educate and entertain your Instagram followers. Hence, line up 5 key attributes that will tell the followers what they need to know about your brand and then be sure to use them in your posts.

Tip # 4. Tell Your Story:

The unique attribute of Instagram is that it goes beyond mere product marketing to inculcate the services and experience being offered to customers. In order to engage Instagram followers; it is recommended that you use posts to show the consumer experience you offer, your staff behind all the action and your company values. The reasons for this is that research has indicated that people are more likely to opt for a company that cares for its customers, employees and the community. It is also advisable that you attempt to direct your Instagram followers to your company website.

Tip 5: Content is Key:

The key to thriving on Instagram is to consistently post new, relevant and captivating content. Be it your caption or posts, make sure you keep your audience intrigued. A good way is to include experts’ advice about topics relevant to your industry. You can also make use of hashtags to increase your visibility on online search engines.

Tip # 6. Let Your Followers Have Their Say:

A marketer’s dream is user-generated content that not only makes the followers feel like a part of your Instagram community; but also gives marketers insight into consumer preferences and thinking patterns. Encouraging user-generated content will empower and engage your Instagram followers whilst providing you ample opportunities for product/ service improvements.

Tip # 7. Create Lasting Relationships:

It is imperative that you nourish your Instagram followers in order to gain their loyalty for your brand. This can be done by promptly responding to their queries and comments. These tips will help you reach and engage your customers, increase sales and drive company growth.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Gagan Chhatwal .