Instagram helps organizations and companies represent themselves visually. However, it’s not as simple as finding a cool picture that represents the brand and uploading it to the app. To really reap the benefits of this relatively new social media platform, incorporate these best practices:
Hashtags are Essential. Searching hashtags is popular among users because they are clickable. When a hashtag is clicked, users are able to see the universe of images that added the same hashtag. To expand the brand’s reach, include hashtags that are likely to be searched by users.
Use these types of hashtags:
- Official Organization Hashtags – Create a hashtag that is brand specific. But be careful not to overuse what you come up with. This type of hashtag should only be included on corporate or organization-owned content.
- Program or Event Hashtags – Be sure to use the appropriate hashtag that has already been established for events you may be attending or programs you are involved with.
- Culturally Relevant Hashtags – If an image is being posted that relates to a cultural topic (holidays, news story, etc.), include applicable hashtags.
- Themed Hashtags – There are a lot of hashtags that are popular on Instagram including #MotivationMonday, #TriviaTuesday, #ThrowbackThursday, #FunFriday. Tying those themes to an image will increase its views.
Share Compelling Content. Unlike other social media platforms, Instagram users are seeking visually compelling content that they may not be able to find elsewhere. Instagram is great for behind the scenes content or sneak peeks of upcoming events or announcements. Feel free to experiment with different types of posts and assess the engagement levels on each of them so you the strategy can be optimized.
Be Authentic. Use Instagram to tell a story about the brand rather than pushing too much promotional content or stock photography. Users can tell how much effort is being put into creating an image. Active Instagram users appreciate high quality, original content. If they are getting this from you, it will help build a genuine connection that will encourage them to follow the branded account.
Cross Promote. Be sure to include an Instagram logo on any promotional materials and link to the website. Feel empowered to share Instagram photos across Twitter to gain more exposure. Utilize Facebook, which has an established audience, to encourage people to follow the brand on Instagram.
Post consistently. Users prefer to see a variety of photos from different accounts in their feed. Post often enough to keep users engaged, but keep them wanting more. If your at an event, don’t feel pressured to post everything at once. Spread the content out throughout the day or across a few days.
Engage with the community. Interact with the Instagram community by asking questions in the image caption and respond to any comments that are posted. Encourage users to hashtag photos at your events or events that you are attending so you can have a record of what happened in case they can be used for different purposes after the event.
If you want more details on how to create a strategy for Instagram, feel free to contact us!
