One of the platforms to watch in 2015 is undoubtedly Instagram. Any platform that is almost totally image based is really not to be ignored. The question I’m frequently asked is how do I use it? How do I get to engage with people on it? To that effect here are a few pointers on how you might better use this fast growing network.
Firstly although it is a visual platform it is still a base from which to conduct conversations. Ensure that any copy (the wording that accompanies your pictures) is prompted at engaging people in conversations. Include calls to action – whether that is a button or a direct instruction in your postings. Remember to ask open ended questions (i.e. not ones that can be answered Yes or No) and tag another user using the @ sign – this will draw them into the conversation and whether they are a satisfied customer or an advocate their input to the content stream could prove invaluable – you could also use this to highlight relevant information to prospective customers or clients.
Hashtags are different on Instagram, typically something like Twitter 2 maybe 3 tags are tops. This isn’t the case on Instagram – in fact the maximum is a monumental 30! On this platform it labels it and sorts it reverse chronologically. Hence more hashtags will help your post be found by a wider audience. I have found particular success using multiple tags.
Let’s not forget though that it’s principally an Image/video site and engaging images that are clean and clutter-free – try a squint test – if you can still see the focal point of the image then it’s a pretty good indication. Try to use a rule of Thirds when you take your pictures – any photographer will explain where our eyes naturally go when looking at a picture but in layman’s terms if you imagine a noughts and crosses grid the focal point should be where the centre lines intersect.
Finally don’t forget to cross pollinate with other platforms – share your account on other platforms, email, blogs and in a prominent place on your website. Also use Instagram as a route to other platforms by using the in-built functionality. It’s here to stay so make use of it as part of your strategy!
Need More ? Speak to Mark