10 Ways to Boost Engagement on Instagram

Is your business using Instagram to engage with its audience? If not, it’s a new year, and a perfect time to start. According to Hootsuite, 1 billion people are using the platform. To put that number in perspective, 7.6 billion people exist on planet Earth. With 500 million of those users logging in every day, you have an excellent opportunity to connect with people all over the world.

Who is using the platform?

• Statistically, women are using the platform more than men are. There are 39% women, 30% men but this gap is continually decreasing.
• 59% of U.S. users are under 30. Studies also show that 33% of Instagram users are between 30 and 49 years old.
• 80% of users are outside the U.S.

These users mentioned above ‘like’ 4.2 billion posts per day. Instagram is creating new ways for businesses, people, and influencers to engage with their followers. With an algorithm focused on personalization, you can showcase your brand in many unique ways. On Instagram your brand can market to a wide audience and build a community of followers. With the right strategy and a personal touch, Instagram engagement is beneficial for your business. Below are 10 ways to boost engagement on Instagram in 2019. 

---

1. Partner With An Influencer

Instagram influencer marketing has become increasingly significant, allowing marketers to work with leaders and reach a wider audience. Social media influencers give your Instagram an authentic touch.

2. Use The Right Hashtags

To increase your Instagram engagement, it’s important to understand which hashtags are getting people to your page. If you select the proper hashtags, they will attract the right people. If your hashtag is too generic, it may get lost amongst the rest. Instagram allows up to 30 hashtags. For a more professional look, it’s best to keep them under 10. It’s recommend to use a variety of hashtags, ones that include trending hashtags and ones that are relevant to your industry.

3. SEO

Creating an SEO strategy is a vital step to boost Instagram engagement. Instagram is becoming incredibly competitive, so it’s helpful to use SEO to increase your chances of visibility. The two key components that affect SEO are your account handle and account name. The handle is the “@” name that you register with to create an Instagram account. This name should clearly indicate your business. Instagram can identify the type of content on your posts but if the content doesn’t fit with your handle, then your posts will not appear in the Explore section. You want to be easily found. Your account name appears under your profile picture. It should show your account handle and industry that you work in.

4. Instagram Video Options

Instagram recognizes how effective video marketing is. Studies show that by 2020, 80% of internet marketing will be video driven. With video being such a prominent tool in 2019, it makes sense for Instagram to continue to reveal new features for video format. From Instagram “Stories” to 60-second videos, make sure you use the strengths of each video format. Alongside “Stories” and videos, Instagram live video, is a great option for big reveals about new products. It also provides a more personal touch when you use “Live” for behind-the-scenes stories.

5. Increase Traffic To Your Website Through Instagram

Instagram can help boost visits to your website. The bio on your page allows for a link. You can add your website to that section of your page. You can encourage followers to head to your website with special offers and promotions as well.

6. Utilize Instagram’s Video Ads

Advertising is key to this platform. Instagram provides many ways to utilize different tools within the platform to assist you in getting the results you want. While Instagram is popular for scrolling through and looking at different images, it’s also a place where people take action. Studies show that 75% of Instagram users state that they visit sites, search, or tell a friend after being influenced by a post. With that statistic in mind, mastering the platform’s range of advertisement formats is essential. Instagram offers three key video formats to create Instagram ads:

1. Single video ads – They provide an opportunity to create up to 60-second commercials.
2. Carousels – Enables followers to swipe across for additional images or videos.
3. Instagram Stories – Offers a vertical full-screen format where pictures and videos can be joined together.

7. Know When To Post

It’s vital to understand your audience, and when to make posts, so you can maximize your success with Instagram engagement. Using the Insights feature of your Instagram account can help you determine your follower’s Instagram habits. This insight tool enables you to identify when your followers are most active and allows you to schedule based on their user habits. Businesses and brands need to stay active on Instagram to interact with their audience. According to studies, it’s best to post one to three times a day. It’s best to stay consistent to avoid a decline in user engagement. If you’re posting once a day every day and then suddenly start only posting once a week, that will affect your results. Content that is clear and consistent will garner more likes and followers.

8. Run A Contest

Contests are a great way to have your audience engage with you. They generate 3.5 times more likes and 64 times more comments than regular posts. Contests can teach you about your audience and increase interaction. You can even partner with another brand to maximize your reach.

9. Instagram Stories

Stories can increase your chances of appearing in the Explore section and helping you gain new followers on Instagram. They disappear after 48 hours. Your audience is automatically notified of any new prerecorded or live Stories. They can tune in and interact with your story. Live Stories are happening at the moment, while prerecorded Stories are perfect for in-depth content.

10. Convert Your Audience Into Email Subscribers

Email is the go-to channel of communication for building relationships. To get email subscribers, you can create a clickable incentive in your Instagram posts, ensure the landing page features a compelling call to action linked to an email submission form, and create a mailing list to develop more meaningful relationships with your subscribers.

---

It’s necessary to stay on top of current trends so your business can keep performing well. As time goes on, Instagram will see continual changes within the platform. You can maximize your Instagram’s potential by following these 10 tips for Instagram engagement in 2019.

Helpful Suggestions:

Does Social Media Impact SEO? — 2019’s Top Tips – NuStream Marketing

Google My Business | SEO Tips | NuStream Marketing