What is Instagram?
Though initially a haven only for younger generations who wanted to post, edit, and share unique-looking photos, Instagram has become a premier social network that’s a viable opportunity for content marketers. Many businesses are taking advantage of the site by posting industry-related photos that their followers and customers would enjoy seeing.
Example
Suppose you’re a small business owner running a bakery called “Sweet Delights.” Here’s how you might use Instagram to promote your bakery:
- Profile Setup: Create a business profile for Sweet Delights on Instagram. Use a profile picture that features your bakery logo or a signature product, and write a bio that succinctly describes your business and what you offer. Include relevant contact information such as your location, website link, and contact email.
- Content Creation: Capture high-quality photos and videos of your bakery’s delicious treats, such as cupcakes, cookies, cakes, and pastries. Showcase the variety of flavors, designs, and seasonal offerings to entice followers. Experiment with different angles, lighting, and compositions to make your content visually appealing.
- Posting Schedule: Establish a consistent posting schedule to keep your Instagram feed active and engaging. Post regularly, but avoid overposting to prevent overwhelming your followers’ feeds. Aim for a mix of content types, including product highlights, behind-the-scenes glimpses, customer testimonials, and promotional offers.
- Hashtags and Captions: Use relevant hashtags and captions to increase the discoverability of your posts and engage with your audience. Include popular hashtags related to baking, desserts, and local food scenes, as well as branded hashtags unique to your bakery. Write engaging captions that complement your visuals and encourage interaction, such as asking questions or prompting users to tag friends.
- Instagram Stories: Use Instagram Stories to share ephemeral content that provides a more casual and authentic glimpse into your bakery’s day-to-day operations. Use features like polls, quizzes, and countdowns to encourage interaction and feedback from your audience. Share behind-the-scenes footage of baking processes, special events, or sneak peeks of upcoming menu items.
- Engagement and Community Building: Interact with your followers by responding to comments, messages, and mentions promptly. Show appreciation for customer support and engagement by reposting user-generated content featuring your bakery’s products. Engage with other local businesses, influencers, and relevant accounts to expand your reach and build relationships within the community.
- Promotions and Giveaways: Run occasional promotions, contests, or giveaways on Instagram to reward your followers and attract new customers. Offer exclusive discounts, freebies, or limited-time offers to incentivize engagement and drive sales. Use compelling visuals and clear calls to action to encourage participation and sharing.