Are you using Instagram to profile your visual brand? No?
Well, you need to step out of the rock that you have been living underneath and create an Instagram account immediately.
Instagram has become a huge part in our everyday lives. In the last 4 years, it has grown to an astonishing 300 million monthly active users surpassing the number of active users on Twitter. This was reported by a 2015 study conducted by iconosquare.
How do you go about developing and creating a professional Instagram profile for marketing purposes?
A few simple pointers can help you get there.
Choose a Brand-centric Username
This should be a no-brainer, but try to use a decent business username. Besides being relevant, a unique username will stick with the followers.
Another tip is to make your username consistent across all your social media platforms. It acts as a recognizable ‘brand identity’ and is easier for people to search. They will know that it is the ‘real’ you or business right away.
Changing your display name is very easy on Instagram. However, try not to change it as and when you like as doing so would rock the confidence of your followers. If you really have to change your social media names for a new rebranding campaign, follow in the footsteps of KU DE TA Singapore.
Now known as CÉ LA VI, their Instagram account has undergo a makeover of new photos and better content branded with the current logo. Ensuring the changes are swift and smooth, that’s the way to go!
Personality Rich Profile Photo
Your profile picture might be the first thing that potential followers will look at besides the username. So do keep in mind how you would like your viewers to think of you.
While a professional looking photo like the ones you use in your résumé may be good, they can be a tad bit boring. Inject some of your personality in your profile photo – be creative, unique and recognizable in your profile picture.
Another handy tip is to just stick to your business logo, if you have one.
Short but Relevant Bio
An Instagram bio does have its word limit. Remember to keep it short and straight to the point.
Here are five things you need to consider:
• Tell viewers who you are.
• Explain what you can do or are doing.
• State your topic of influence on Instagram, be it lifestyle, fitness, food, fashion or others.
• State where you come from.
• Include a business-motivating slogan.
Oh yes, don’t forget to let your pictures show what sets you apart from anyone else.
An important tip here is to include your contact email, website URL or however way you wish to be contacted, for business and social opportunities. You never know who you might impress with your Instagram account.
Here are two examples of well-written Instagram bios:
Use Right Blend of Hashtags
Hashtags are all about creating the buzz for your brand so unleash your creativity and have fun!
Create the awareness you need by doing the following:
• Use generic hashtags – #fashion, #alcohol, #beverage
• Use up to a total of approximately 10 to 12 hashtags
• Create personalized hashtags with relevance to what you are promoting for your business
Follow the Right Frequency of Posts
There are no rules as to how many times you should post on Instagram, as it will not turn your followers away as stated by FastCompany. Unsurprisingly, not updating frequently causes a drop in the follower counts.
However, as a rule of thumb, it would be good to minimally post at least once a day or once every two days, especially during the “growth phase” of your Instagram account.
Always make sure you have all your interesting and engaging posts ready for sharing!
What other tips have you come across in developing a professional Instagram profile? I’d love to hear them!
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