How Does Instagram Work for Business? The Simple Guide for Small Business Owners

“I just don’t really know how it works.”

That’s what a small business owner said to me recently about Instagram and I have a feeling they’re not the only one.

If you’ve ever thought the same, you’re definitely not alone. Instagram can feel like a bit of a mystery box when you’re trying to use it for business. You’re posting, you’re showing up, you’re hoping someone sees it… but is it really working?

Let’s break it down so you finally understand how Instagram actually works and more importantly, how it helps your business. How Does Instagram Work? Meet Big AL

At the heart of Instagram is something called the algorithm. I like to call him Big AL (short for ALgorithm).

Think of Big AL as a matchmaker between you and your ideal clients. His job is to show your posts, Stories, and Reels to the people he thinks will enjoy them. But here’s the catch: Big AL can only work with the information you give him.

If your Instagram page isn’t clear about who you are, what you offer, or who you help, he’ll struggle to match you with the right audience. How Does Instagram Help Businesses?

Instagram helps businesses by getting your content in front of the right people if you set it up properly.

Here’s how it works in practice:

• Reels → Mostly shown to non-followers (perfect for attracting new people to your page).

• Stories → Mainly shown to your existing followers (great for nurturing relationships).

• Carousels & Posts → Shown to a mix, depending on engagement (ideal for educating, storytelling, or showcasing products/services)

When you use these formats strategically, you’re not just posting for the sake of it, you’re building visibility, trust, and sales opportunities.

How Does Instagram Work for Business?

If you’re using Instagram for your small business, here’s what really matters:

1. SEO-rich captions → Write posts using the same words your ideal client would search for. (For example, a yoga teacher might use “yoga classes near me” or “beginner yoga tips”).

2. Clear photos & videos → Make it obvious what your post is about. Think scroll-stopping but also relevant.

3. An optimised bio → Your profile should make it crystal clear who you help and how.

Do those three things and Big AL will know exactly who to show your content to.

Is Instagram Worth It for Business?

Short answer: yes.

But it’s only worth it if you’re using it strategically. Random posting (what I call “post and pray”) won’t bring you sales. But when you understand how Instagram works and use the right formats to Attract, Nurture, and Convert followers, Instagram becomes one of the most powerful free tools you’ll ever have for your business.

Still Feeling Unsure?

You don’t need to figure it all out alone.

That’s exactly why I offer my Instagram Audit service. I’ll go through your page with a fine-tooth comb and show you:

• What’s already working

• What could be improved

• Clear, simple actions to help you get more reach, followers, and sales

You even get 4 days of WhatsApp support from me after your audit so you can double-check posts, ask questions, or get feedback before hitting publish.

👉 The audit is £95, OR you can grab it for free when you join my social media mentorship group, Get Seen Get Sales.

Why Join Get Seen Get Sales?

The audit gives you clarity, but the mentorship gives you ongoing support.

Inside GSGS, you’ll get:

• Weekly detailed content prompts so you're never stuck on what to post again

• Step-by-step social media guides (not just Instagram)

• Expert workshops

• A supportive community that gets it

Together, the audit + mentorship means you’ll never feel stuck on Instagram (or any platform) again. You’ll know what to post, why you’re posting it, and how it leads to real sales.

So if you’ve ever found yourself saying “I just don’t know how Instagram works”… now you do. And if you’d like to take the next step, I’d love to support you inside GSGS, find out more about the group here.