What’s Working Right Now on Instagram – March 2025 Update

Let’s be honest… Instagram can feel like a moving target. One minute your Reels are popping off, the next? Tumbleweed.

If you’re feeling a bit “what the heck do I post now?” — you’re not alone. That’s why I recorded a full podcast episode on what’s actually working on Instagram right now, based on what I’m seeing with my own content, what’s converting for members inside Get Seen Get Sales, and a little behind-the-scenes data digging.

So kettle’s on — let’s dive into the key strategies that are working right now (and yep, they’re all things you can start doing this week).

1. Real-life content is converting better than curated

You don’t need a perfect grid to make sales. In fact, the posts getting the most engagement inside my mentor group lately? They’re the scrappy, behind-the-scenes ones.

Here’s what’s landing:

Packing orders while chatting on Stories

A “real day in the life” (the messy version!)

Your latest client win — even if it’s a small one

People buy from people. If your feed looks too polished or distant, it’s harder for followers to feel that trust.

Try this: Show your face (even if it's just your hand making a cuppa), share what’s actually happening in your biz, and let people in. Not just when things are going great — but when you’re winging it a bit too.

2. Screenshot testimonials are performing better than polished graphics

Honestly? Those cute Canva testimonial templates are getting scrolled past. What’s working instead are raw screenshots from real chats.

Inside the group, we’ve seen members get brilliant engagement just from sharing a quick DM or WhatsApp message from a client. No design, no fluff. Just proof.

Tip: Post a screenshot and say something like “This made my day” or “More of this energy please!”. It builds social proof and feels super genuine.

3. Reels that remix = easy reach

Not got time to film a Reel from scratch? Remix one instead.

This is gold right now — especially if you’re someone who doesn’t love being on camera. I’ve been using this strategy loads recently and it’s brilliant for engagement.

Here’s how:

1. Find a trending Reel in your niche

2. Hit “Remix” and add your spin with a caption or overlay text

3. Tie it back to something your ideal client would nod their head at

Even if it’s just a facial expression or pointing to the text, it works — and it’s quick!

4. Carousels are back (if your first slide hooks people)

I know, we’ve been Reels-obsessed lately — but carousels are quietly making a comeback, especially if you nail that first slide.

Inside Get Seen Get Sales, I’ve been helping members use mid-story hooks that draw people in — something like:

“I was about to make a coffee when this client messaged…”

Why it works? You drop your reader right in the middle of something, and they want to know more.

Try this structure:

Slide 1: Mid-story hook

Slide 2–4: Teach or share value

Slide 5: CTA or conversation starter

And yep — consistent branding helps too. My own carousels that use my signature teal and blobby background still outperform everything else.

5. Humour and honesty are winning Reels

Let’s be honest, we’re all scrolling for a laugh or a little “oh my god, same” moment.

Reels that are relatable, lightly funny, or just real are still being shared the most — even if they’re low effort.

Inside the mentor group, we’ve seen Reels do well that:

Dramatise a silly client moment

Over-exaggerate a biz struggle (“me checking my insights for the 12th time today”)

Use trending sounds with a niche-specific twist

Hot tip: Add a strong caption to go with it. Even if your Reel is short and sweet, your caption can carry the context or call-to-action.

6. Consistency (in brand + content style) is making a real difference

You don’t need a full rebrand. But you do need some recognisable elements so people start to associate your posts with you.

When I started using the same colour, font, and tone across all my carousels, people messaged me saying “I knew that was yours before I even clicked!”

And guess what? That kind of consistency builds trust fast.

Quick Recap: What to Post Right Now

Here’s your cheat sheet for what’s working on Instagram in March 2025:

✅ Behind-the-scenes content

✅ Raw screenshots of client messages

✅ Remixing Reels for quick engagement

✅ Bold, hook-first carousels

✅ Humour, honesty, and relatability in Reels

✅ Consistent visuals and tone

You don’t need to be everywhere, do everything, or show up perfectly. Just focus on showing up genuinely, using what’s working, and posting with strategy — not just because you feel you “should”.

Want more help with what to post this month?

Listen to the full podcast episode here: What’s Working on Instagram Right Now – March 2025 Update

Or DM me over on Instagram @amandahughes.uk — let me know which tip you’re going to try first!

Ready to stop winging it on Instagram?

Come join the Get Seen Get Sales mentor group — weekly strategy guides, Reels prompts, live training, and support from a whole crew of biz owners who get it.

And if you want to make content planning a breeze…Grab the Social Media Planner here

About Me

👋 Hey, I’m Amanda! Small Business Mentor, Apple Top 30 Podcaster & Amazon #1 Bestselling Author.

I help small business owners like you get seen & get sales on Instagram, without the overwhelm.

With 10+ years of experience running small businesses, I know what it’s like to juggle marketing, sales, and all the things. That’s why I’m obsessed with making Instagram simple, fun, and profitable for business owners just like you.

📩 Grab my FREE 30 Content Prompts here for instant content ideas!

and

📲 Let’s connect on Instagram → @amandahughes.uk