To win at the social media game, you have to understand a little bit of strategy. Not everyone does, though, and that’s where they run into trouble. Instagram was the most popular social media platform of 2020, but one of the hardest to get.
Here are a few common mistakes people make when trying to get their names out there on the ‘gram.
1) Not utilizing Instagram’s features
Instagram isn’t just a photo sharing platform. It’s chock-full of bonus features like reels and stories. One of the most common mistakes people make is not taking advantage of that!
Remember: your audience is an Instagram-savvy bunch. If they’re checking out your page, they’re going to want to see that you know the platform too!
Using features like the story function makes your audience perceive you as competent and confident, so reel them in with a reel and keep them hooked with a story.
2) Not replying to comments and DMs
If people are engaging with your content, engage back! You’ve gotten their attention, now you’ve got to keep it.
If you went to a cafe and greeted the barista only to be met with silence, you’d feel a little put off. You wouldn’t want to go back to that coffee shop.
Your Insta is your coffee shop. Creating a responsive and engaging environment is key to getting your numbers up.
3) Not showing your face in stories
So you’ve started using the story function—that’s great! But what story are you telling? Who’s it about?
If you’re posting stories that don’t show your face, it makes it harder for your audience to relate to you. They don’t know who they’re talking to, and that tends to make people a little nervous. So, show off that smile and watch the likes and comments roll in.
4) Inconsistency in photos and graphics
This is a big one. If your aesthetic is all over the place, you run the risk of looking unprofessional. A lolcat meme one post and a carefully crafted piece of calligraphy in the next confuses the audience. “Who is this content for?”, they’ll ask, and they’ll be right to wonder! Know your audience and tailor your pictures and graphics to appeal to them.
5) Not asking for help
If all this seems like a lot to keep track of, well, you’re not wrong. One of the best things you can do to help your Instagram thrive is to get some help, either with content management or content planning.
The social media world is a minefield. Doesn’t it sound like a good idea to have a guide to show you where to walk? There’s a lot to know, but you don’t have to do it alone.