In a world where social media has become the new business battleground, Instagram is a great place for growth and visibility. With over 25 million businesses already reaping the rewards and a staggering $7+ billion funneled into Instagram advertising in the previous year alone, it’s undeniable that this platform has transformed into a goldmine of opportunities. And since more and more businesses and individuals invest in services that boost Instagram followers each day, you need to get on this train as soon as possible.
Of course, some businesses still remain hesitant, tethered to a mistaken belief that their niche might not fit into Instagram. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Whether you’re a cutting-edge B2C enterprise or a steadfast B2B establishment, Instagram offers a space to flourish and captivate your audience. With its visual allure and vast user base, Instagram has transcended from a mere social space to a strategic powerhouse that fuels brand growth and amplifies visibility.
This article takes you on a captivating exploration of why Instagram is not just an option but an indispensable asset for businesses of all sizes and industries. Below, we unveil how Instagram’s potential can reshape your business trajectory and share the top 10 reasons your business should be on Instagram. So, let’s start.
1. Fulfilling Your Customers’ Expectations
The first reason is that in the age of connectivity, your potential customers actually expect to find you on Instagram. An empty search result or, worse, a rival’s profile could mar the image you’ve worked so hard to build.
At the very least, creating an Instagram account with essential business information is paramount, even if you’re not planning a barrage of posts.
2. Building Trust
An Instagram presence, more so if verified, is akin to an emblem of authenticity. It proclaims to the world that your business is credible, real, and unafraid of transparency.
For online-exclusive ventures, another social touchpoint fosters familiarity and trust between you and your customers.
3. Customer Engagement
A satisfied or thrilled client might head to Instagram to extol your services or products. They’d tag your business in their posts, sharing their positive experiences. However, if your business lacks an Instagram handle, this potential spotlight fades to black.
By having a presence, you invite customers to share their stories and shine a light on your brand.
4. Showcasing Products with Precision
For product-based businesses, Instagram’s magic lies in its ability to directly link images and videos to the products you offer.
Create a product catalog via your Facebook page and watch the magic unfold as your visual content becomes a direct portal to your offerings.
5. Driving Traffic
Instagram isn’t just about products but stories, insights, and knowledge. By sharing content like whitepapers, infographics, and blog posts, you can steer traffic to your website.
The seamless integration of Facebook and Twitter sharing allows you to expand your reach effortlessly.
6. Reputation Management
A strong online reputation is a cornerstone of success. Social networks, including Instagram, often populate the first page of search engine results.
Even if you’re not a frequent user, crafting an account helps manage your brand’s online persona and pushes negative content down the ranks.
7. Staying Competitive
Your competitors are on Instagram, leveraging its potential. You inadvertently grant them a competitive edge if you’re not present on Instagram.
Also, observing their tactics can spark inspiration and illuminate your Instagram journey.
8. Amplified Networking
Instagram transcends a simple platform; it’s a networking haven. Engage with like-minded businesses and individuals through likes, comments, and messages.
Cultivate relationships that might blossom into real-world connections, further fueling your business growth.
9. Showcasing Company Culture
Potential employees want insight into your company’s culture. Instagram provides a transparent window into the essence of your organization.
Sharing behind-the-scenes moments and candid glimpses of your team fosters an authentic connection with those considering joining your ranks.
10. Boosting Your Sales
One remarkable reason to have your business seen on Instagram is its conversion prowess. While social media isn’t solely about sales, this platform surprises you with quite high conversion rates.
According to Shopify, around 1.08% of visitors from Instagram make purchases on your website. This implies that out of 100 visitors directed by Instagram, 1 will complete a purchase. Though seemingly modest, this rate ranks as the fourth highest among social networking sites, quietly enhancing your business’s bottom line.
And more than a billion of active users on the platform and great opportunities to attract thousands of Insta users, your business will definitely benefit from Instagram.
Instagram Dos and Don’ts
Mastering Instagram requires a balanced approach, so here are some insights into what to do and not to do on Instagram.
What to Do:
- Consistent Posting: A regular posting schedule, ideally between one and three times a week, maintains engagement.
- Engagement Etiquette: Engage with other accounts by liking, commenting, and following hashtags.
- Use Feedback Loop: Seek opinions and customer feedback, enriching your market insights.
- Create Visual Signature: Cultivate a consistent style in your grid by employing specific colors, filters, and angles.
- Use Thoughtful Hashtags: Craft hashtags that resonate and avoid overloading, which can appear pushy.
- Storytelling: Share behind-the-scenes moments to forge emotional connections with your audience.
Things to Avoid
Remember that success also lies in avoiding common pitfalls.
Excessive Posting
While consistent posting is crucial, bombarding your audience with excessive content can lead to fatigue. Posting more than three times a week risks overwhelming your followers, potentially prompting them to disengage. Strike a balance between frequency and quality, ensuring each post resonates and adds value to your audience’s experience.
Inauthenticity
Authenticity is the cornerstone of Instagram’s success. Avoid automated interactions, auto-commenters, and generic responses. Embrace genuine interactions that reflect your brand’s ethos. Engaging in authentic conversations fosters trust, nurturing a community that resonates with your brand’s values and aspirations.
Clickbait Tactics
While captivating content is essential, avoid resorting to clickbait tactics that promise more than they deliver. Ensure your content’s relevance and authenticity to avoid disappointing your audience. Trust and credibility are nurtured through honesty, fostering a loyal following that values your transparency.
Overemphasis on Sales
Monotony and sales-driven content can alienate your audience. Strive for content diversity that reflects the multifaceted nature of your brand. Balance promotional content with informative, entertaining, and relatable posts. The 5:3:2 rule—five curated content, three audience-centric posts, and two fun, humanizing posts—creates a harmonious content symphony.
Ignoring Feedback
Engagement is a dialogue, not a monologue. Acknowledge both positive and negative feedback with grace. Respond thoughtfully, addressing concerns, and expressing gratitude for praise. Ignoring comments, especially negative ones, can leave a sour impression. Engaging with feedback showcases your commitment to your audience’s satisfaction.
To Conclude
In a world where visuals tell stories and connections dictate success, Instagram isn’t just a choice; it’s an imperative. No matter your industry, there’s a canvas waiting for your brand to leave its unique brushstrokes.
Shed the misconception that your business doesn’t belong; embrace the endless possibilities, and paint a picture of prosperity on the vibrant canvas of Instagram. Your business deserves to shine, and Instagram is your spotlight.
Thanks for sharing this article so helpful.