While Instagram started as a photo app, it has evolved into a much bigger platform. Instagram is not just for photographers or videographers. Compared to other Social Media Apps, Instagram is restrictive on its content. However, because of its simplicity, it's also the most popular of all Social Media apps. Below is a quick guide on how to use Instagram for your business.
Best Practices:
Here are some guidelines that I typically follow when using Instagram:
- Use best content for your feed
- Post Often (You can always archive a post if you're not feeling it)
- Use Relevant Hashtags for Your Posts
- Use Stories to Experiement and Test New Content
I also think it's best to avoid automated bot programs that like, follow, unfollow for your Instagram account. These programs come off very spamming and might risk offending your followers.
Disadvantages of Using Instagram
Instagram is currently built on a system that incentives you to have followers. Once a user reaches ten thousand followers, they are granted additional features on the platform. One of these features is being able to use a URL on Instagram stories. This allows you to publish a URL from a website or another URL like a Youtube video.Because of this, many users go through a lot of problematic ways to increase their following. Some of these include using methods such as automated bot programs that follow and unfollow other accounts in hopes of increasing their following. This has caused a lot of spam and fake accounts on Instagram.
Using Ads on Instagram
Advertisements on Instagram is a way around having a massive following to link out to a blog or Youtube post. I have noticed a major difference in the amount of audience I reach when using an Instagram ad. This is because Instagram is using an algorithm that is now giving preference to sponsored content.
Summary: How to use Instagram for your Business
In conclusion, I think Instagram can be one of the most enjoyable of Social Media sites to use for your business. However, as with most Social Media sites, Instagram was designed to be addictive and keep you on the platform. If you're new to Instagram I hope this guide was helpful.
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