As a small business owner, Instagram can be an invaluable asset for expanding your brand and connecting with new customers. But how do you maximize the power of this platform and expand the presence of your small business on Instagram?
Start by following other businesses in your industry. Examine their posts and engagement levels to determine what works best for them.
1. Use relevant hashtags
Instagram hashtags are an effective tool for connecting with your ideal customer base. Not only do they draw in new followers, but existing ones may be encouraged to stick around and stay engaged.
Use niche hashtags that are pertinent to your brand or industry. While these may not be as popular as trending hashtags, they will help ensure your posts remain at the top of search pages for extended periods.
Finding relevant hashtags can be done several ways, such as using Sprout Social’s suggestions or checking out your competitors’ and accounts’ hashtags. Additionally, the Instagram app’s search function can provide useful hashtags for use in content creation.
2. Be consistent
Promoting your small business on Instagram requires consistency. Crafting a brand theme and sticking to it will help your audience remember you and recognize posts quickly.
Starbucks for instance utilizes an autumnal color palette on their profile page, making it simple for followers to spot and recognize their photos.
Consistency is key when using hashtags on Instagram for business. While it’s not necessary to use the same one every post, using relevant and on-brand hashtags can help get your content seen by a new audience.
3. Use emojis
Emojis are an effective tool for connecting with your audience. Not only that, but they’re also a great way to add some humor and personality into your marketing message.
Before you jump on board with emoji adoption, make sure it makes sense for your brand and campaign. Utilize social intelligence tools to discover what your audience uses online and how they respond to emojis.
If you’re sending an email to first-time customers, it may be wise to avoid including emojis in the subject line. Doing so could cause confusion and disengagement among those unfamiliar with your brand.
4. Include a link in your bio
Instagram bios are one of the most effective links you can use to promote your brand. It’s a straightforward yet effective way to convert followers into customers.
Some businesses link directly to their website or store, while others include links to other social media channels. It’s essential that you consider all options if you want to maximize the potential of the bio link on Instagram.
Linking in your bio allows you to share multiple links with one URL, making it simple to drive traffic to different pages and content. Plus, videos and cross-promotion of your Instagram account on other platforms can all be done from a single link! Not only is this an excellent way for monetizing your followers on Instagram but also great way to showcase new merch or products!
5. Include a call to action
Incorporating a call-to-action into your Instagram posts is an effective way to boost conversion rates. This could be as straightforward as asking people to save your post for later, or it could involve creating an incentive code specifically for followers.
When crafting a CTA, the most critical thing is being able to communicate with your audience in an approachable and impactful way. This can be accomplished through language that resonates with them or including keywords that resonate with the target customer base.
Slidequest utilizes a Buy Now CTA on its Instagram profile to entice viewers to purchase a product. But it also creates an urgency by saying the offer is only available for a limited time, encouraging viewers to act now and take advantage of this offer.