With over 500 million users, Instagram has quickly grown to be one of the most popular social media platforms used worldwide. Recent stats have shown that 75% of users have taken action after seeing a sponsored post on Instagram. For this reason, the number of brands using Instagram to advertise products and events is expected to rise to over 70% this year. 

In order to effectively capitalise on Instagram as a key brand communicator, here are 3 ways that we believe you should be using Instagram: 

1 – Make use of Instagram Stories

Nowadays, it’s all about experiencing things. The client wants to feel like they are part of your business’ experience. Instagram stories allow you to show behind the scenes photos or videos for 24 hours. This can help to provide context around your campaign or give audiences a look at the different personalities which make up your team. For accounts with 10,000 + followers, Instagram stories rewardqq you with a call to action feature where the viewer can “swipe up” to be redirected to your website.

2 – Live Stream

Similarly to Facebook, Instagram offers a live video feature. Giving your followers a raw, filter-free view of the brand helps to build trust. It also offers a level of exclusivity, whereby your audience can gain access and insight into special events, launches or workdays, that they wouldn’t otherwise have the opportunity to see. This kind of content can help retain an engaged and active audience. An additional tip on using this feature: promote the broadcast beforehand to build excitement before you go live!

3- Give Back

According to a report by Marketaire, 70% of people follow Facebook brand pages for special offers. With this in mind, it’s important to show your followers (potential and existing clients) how much they mean to you. You can do this with Instagram competitions or Instagram-exclusive offers, when appropriate, or in the lead up to a special event. This strategy will direct more traffic towards your Instagram page and also increase your reach.

If you want to learn more about how you can incorporate Instagram into your digital strategy why not give us a call? 

Post by Susie Horgan

Susie founded Springboard in 2011, and has developed the business into a leading, director-led communications agency. She has worked for over 20 years in senior marketing and public relations roles.