Instagram has dominated as the top social media platform for business for quite some time now and 2024 doesn't look to be any different.
We all know that the algorithm that Instagram uses changes often, as it should in a fast growing business, and it's our job to keep up.
Here are 4 things you can do to instantly improve your Instagram reach for your small business in 2024:
Optimize your Instagram bio: Your bio is often your potential customers first look at your business, your shop window if you like. Make sure it's looking as good as possible to make them want to scroll down, hit that follow button, check out your posts and BOOK or BUY!
On brand, clear images: This is a non negotiable if you want to grow your small business on a visual platform like Instagram. Either invest money to hire a pro (Hi- I can help!) or invest your time to learn how to better DIY your business images. Whichever avenue you go down, be sure to put yourself in your ideal clients shoes when planning your shoot and post images that THEY want to see, not just what you think looks good.
Use relevant hashtags: HASHTAGS ARE NOT DEAD, louder for folks at the back. I see "hashtags are dead" chat all over Instagram and I just don't get it. I found, and bought from a small business recently (read more about that here) by searching a hashtag and finding one they used over a year ago. I then bought from them again, and I will again because they are fab. Who knows if I would have found them otherwise though?
Engage with others: Instagram is a social platform, it is not a one way street. You cannot expect to post and run, you have to also do the work and engage with others on there if you want Instagram to show your account off. Find your ideal clients, or spaces that they hang out in (not sure who your ideal client is exactly or where they hang out? Check this out) and like, comment, share etc etc. Put yourself out there like you're in a big online networking event and go find your people!
Need a bit more help growing your small business on Instagram?
Whilst these are great tips and things you can (and should) start to do right now to see an improvement in your Instagram performance, NOTHING can replace a good solid plan. Everything you do in your business should have a strategy behind it, nothing should be aimless, your business Instagram presence is no different. I've been self employed for over 10 years now and have used Instagram to grow my small businesses from the very start of that journey. Shot by Amanda is a relatively new business, still under 1 year old, yet I'm fully booked for my brand photography memberships for Q1 of 2024 by using Instagram as my main marketing platform, so I know that the tips I teach work - as I use them too!
I know as small business owners creating a social media strategy like this can seem overwhelming and so that's why, in 2024, I'm launching a new course all about creating your very own Instagram Strategy!
Amongst other things, the course will help you:
Understand what it is you want to achieve from Instagram
Set realistic goals and expectations
Develop a strategy that aligns with your brand
Create engaging content in various formats
How to convert followers into buyers
If you'd like to be amongst the first 10 people to try the course at a discounted price (in exchange for feedback) then drop me a DM here and I'll make sure that you're the first to get all of the details.
This is my last blog post of 2023, I hope it's been helpful! I look forward to seeing you on the gram in the new year.
Have a great Christmas and a Happy New Year when it comes around!
Speak soon,
Amanda
Comments