Every creative wants an engaged social media following, but not everyone knows where to start. There are many ways to grow your Instagram account organically, and whatever you do don’t fall into the trap of buying followers. Read why here. Attracting the right people to your page takes a lot of time and patience, but here are eight (completely free!) tricks you can use to maximize your potential with every post.
1. Utilize Hashtags To Reach The Right People
Whenever you post a picture, try adding hashtags that not only relate to your photo but the audience you’re trying to reach as well. Using hashtags is the number one way to get your account discovered and creating your own hashtag is a great way to boost brand credibility. Instagram allows up to 30 hashtags per post; we definitely recommend using them all.
If you’re afraid your post will look spammy, add the tags as a comment, but don’t wait! Add them as soon as you post!
2. Build Community By Engaging With Others
Don’t just focus on your own posts. Interact with users that captivate your interests and bring value to your feed. Liking, commenting, following and sharing the content you enjoy is a fantastic way to build an engaged following. Use hashtags to find new accounts to enjoy or glean new inspiration.
3. Post Quality Photos With Engaging Captions
You know your work is amazing but don’t forget that your words are just as important as the photo! Wow them with your wit, or show your softer side. Ask questions that prompt your audience to respond or make suggestions.
4. Consistency is Key
Keep your place in the algorithm, and your audience’s interest by posting regularly. Whether it’s once a day or just a few times a week, pick a schedule and stick to it. Apps like Planoly, Buffer and Later are great tools for planning and scheduling your feed.
5. What’s Your Niche?
Creating a niche also falls into consistency, but the subject deserves special attention. Creating a theme for your Instagram account can be a huge selling point. If you’re a restaurant, wow your followers with amazing photos of your culinary masterpieces. If you’re a photographer, keep those gorgeous photos coming. If you’re a desiginer, share all that art and those details!
6. Know The Optimal Times To Share
Contrary to popular belief there are some well-researched best times to post. Major analytics platforms have released their own studies about when users are most active, so there is a method to the madness, check out this article on the best times to post!
7. Share The Location
Add the location of your photos whenever relevant. For instance, if you shoot a family session at a gorgeous location, geotag the photo so potential clients can connect with you when they search that area.
8. Host a Giveaway
EVERYONE loves a giveaway! Host an event that requires users to repost your photo, then tag a few friends. The best thing about giveaways is that you get a lot of engagement, though the downside is you may lose some followers once the promotion is over.
There are so many ways to gain an engaged audience on Instagram, but it truly takes time, patience and commitment. In the end, it pays off with new clients and an active audience who adores your work.