If you’re posting on Instagram, getting likes, and even a few comments—but your sales aren’t increasing, something isn’t clicking (literally) You’re not alone! Many small business owners struggle with turning engagement into actual conversions (aka sales, bookings, or inquiries)
Here’s the good news: there’s a fix! And it’s not about posting more—it’s about posting smarter.
Let’s break down the common mistakes and, most importantly, how to get Instagram working for your business.
Mistake #1: You’re Not Telling People What to Do
Your audience might love your posts, but if you’re not directing them towards the next step, they won’t take action.
The Fix: Use Clear Calls-to-Action (CTAs)
Instead of just posting a photo of your latest product, say “Tap the link in bio to order”
Instead of just sharing a client success story, say “DM me ‘INFO’ for details on working together”
Instead of just an educational post, say “Save this post for later!” to encourage long-term engagement.
The clearer your CTA, the easier it is for your followers to take action.
Mistake #2: Your Content Focuses Too Much on You
It’s your business, so naturally, you want to talk about it! But if all of your content is focused on you, your audience will scroll past.
The Fix: Make It About Your Ideal Client
Talk about their struggles and how you solve them.
Use “you” more than “I” in your captions. Instead of “I offer brand design services,” say “Struggling to make your brand stand out? Here’s how I can help!”
Tell relatable stories. If you had the same struggles your audience has now, share them! (They’ll see themselves in your journey)
Mistake #3: You’re Not Making Sales Posts
Many small business owners feel awkward selling, so they avoid it. The result? People don’t know what you offer.
The Fix: Confidently Sell in a Way That Feels Natural
Follow the Attract, Nurture, Convert strategy: Out of 10 posts, aim for 50% attraction posts (e.g., Reels) 30% nurture posts (e.g., carousels and Stories offering value) and 20% conversion posts with a clear CTA.
Create conversion-focused content like testimonials and case studies
Regularly remind people what you do and how they can buy from you—because they want to know, I promise!
Mistake #4: You’re Not Engaging With Your Audience
Instagram is a two-way street. If you’re posting but not interacting, your audience won’t feel connected to you.
The Fix: Engage More!
Reply to every comment and DM – just plain manners really.
Interact with your followers content – they’ll notice and engage back.
Use polls, question boxes, and interactive stickers in Stories to encourage conversation.
Mistake #5: Your Content Isn’t Aligned With What You Actually Sell
If your content is random or inconsistent, it confuses people. They should see your posts and immediately know what you offer.
The Fix: Plan Content That Supports Your Offers
Use content pillars (educational, storytelling, conversion-focused)
Make your content lead naturally to your paid offers – for example, a post on why branding is important should lead into your brand design services.
Make Instagram Work for Your Business
If you want Instagram to bring in consistent sales, you need strategic content that attracts, nurtures, and converts. Focus on clear CTAs, relatable storytelling, regular sales posts, engagement, and alignment with your offers.
Tell me: What can you change today so see an improvement in this area? Let’s chat in the comments!
Need help planning content that actually converts? Join my mentor group, Get Seen Get Sales, and let’s get Instagram working for you!
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