Instagram has grown exponentially since its launch in 2010. According to Buffer.com, worldwide, there are more than 800 million Instagrammers, sharing upwards of 250 million pieces of content daily. So when marketing on the platform, it is vital to have an effective Instagram marketing strategy to cut through the noise and attract the right customers.
Why Use Instagram?
Instagram has a huge user-base (300 million daily active users to be exact). So, naturally, marketers should be scrambling to find customers there. Better yet, 70% of Instagram users report having looked up a brand on the platform.
Instagram, like most popular social media sites, is a great place to gain influence over your consumer base by gathering a loyal following.
The unique part of Instagram is its visual appeal. Research has shown that the brain conceives visuals faster than any other type of content. It is literally the best place to make your brand ‘look’ good.
Here are a few ways to make Instagram work for you:
- Switch to a Business Account
If you have not done so already, we suggest switching your existing profile to a business account.
It is simple, just go to your settings menu, scroll down and select ‘Switch to Business Profile’.
Business profiles have a number of handy extras like Instagram ads, analytics tools (Instagram Insights) and a contact button to boost your conversion rates.
- Offer Discounts
On Instagram, discount offers work well when accompanied by sharp imagery. Who does not want 40% off a stunning pair of shoes or a delicious looking smoothie? It is a great place to show off your product and provide an incentive for your customers to purchase it.
- Use Instagram Stories
One of Instagram’s newest and most interesting features is ‘Stories’. With content that lasts only 24 hours, you do not have to worry about it fitting into your Instagram aesthetic, it can be spontaneous and there is more room for creativity. Live video, boomerangs, GIFs and face-filters are just a few of the things you can feature in your stories. You can give your followers exclusive behind the scenes insights into your brand during live events or even just a regular day at the office (showcasing company culture).
- Partner with Influencers
Leveraging an influencer’s audience-base is an easy way to reach more customers on Instagram. They trust them, and so, by association, will likely trust you. It is as simple as them giving a shout out to your brand and product on their page, doing a product review or offering discounts using a unique promo code. Influencers are a marketing goldmine on Instagram.
If you want to get the best out of your Instagram marketing strategy, contact WSI OMS today and request our social media services.