Let’s come to a realization – social media took the world by surprise. And while it initially captured most of consumers, it also paved the way for the businesses to take part in the action too. And that is exactly what is occurring on Instagram right now.
As of April, this year, Instagram developed and launched a completely new feature to the platform – the Instagram business profiles. And similar to Facebook, there will be a lot of advantages for businesses who embrace it sooner than later.
Essentially, the Instagram algorithm for businesses is mimicking the Facebook for Business idea of advertising to a local audience and getting the best bang for your buck. You can reach your target audience and get exposure for your business for even a relatively small ad spend.
However, a bulk of people would agree that the new Instagram algorithm for business is even more personal than the Facebook algorithm that is already used by businesses worldwide. The difference is basically in the personal versus the public use.
To break it down, the new Instagram update filters the advertised content according to two factors – engagement and interest. That way, when a user that you follow engages with the advertised content (likes it or follows it) – you automatically see that content higher in your feed.
The most complete way to answer this question is quite simple. This new Instagram algorithm for businesses is like music to the ears of every marketer. More so, marketers see this content positioning as extremely helpful when promoting their business on Instagram.
So… What’s so awesome about it?
Well, prior to this update, business profiles were difficult to find on Instagram. The only way followers could engage with them was to click their website link in their profile. However, the all new Instagram for Business comes with contact buttons that directly lead to the business’ email or phone – as well as its location on map.
Whether you’re a seasoned Instagram pro or have never utilized Instagram before – This platform is here to stay and they’ve just made it even easier to promote your business.
- Upgrade A Personal Instagram Profile to A Business Profile – First and foremost is to upgrade to a business profile on Instagram. You can do that by linking your Instagram account to your Facebook business page. That’s all it takes! Instagram will recognize the designation and connect it accordingly.
- Ditch the Stories at Start–Some businesses do extremely well with “Stories” on Snapchat and Facebook. But for now, Instagram doesn’t support these features – Instead, try out some of the other great tools and features.
- Utilize the CTA/Contact Button – Direct communication is one of the top features of Instagram for Business. When you set up the Contact button, you can decide how people will reach you – whether it’s email, phone or both.
- Post on A Consistent Basis, But Don’t Over-post – Sometimes people can get too much of a good thing, right? And it’s certainly factual in this case. Over-posting can have a counter-effect and followers will be more likely to skip your posts. That is why 3 great posts a week can out-perform 30 of them.
- Track the Analytics – Another amazing part of the all new Instagram for businesses algorithm are the analytics. Only business profiles have access to this feature which definitely makes it an exclusive perk. In order to open it, tap or click the little bar graph icon on your profile and you will see several metrics – one of which is the ‘Insights’ option. There, you can analyze and view how many people see your posts and how many of them observed your business profile.
A Last Note
It certainly goes without mentioning that Instagram’s latest update is an exciting new option to promote your business with.
But the bottom line is that no matter how many updates and new features social media platforms rollout on us, what really matters is the content that you choose to share and the people engaging and connecting with it. So, I say try it out. There has never been a better time to promote your business on this immensely popular platform. Instagram profiles for business is nothing short of a bulls-eye for small business.