5 Strategies for Boosting Engagement on Instagram

A recent update to Instagram’s feed sorting got marketers worried. A straight-forward chronological order will be replaced with Facebook-like algorithm that takes into account many social signals, including engagement and past likes to predict “relevancy” of posts. While the move evoked different sentiments, the fact remains that the algorithm change is unenviable and marketers will have to adjust . To truly leverage the new algorithm to your own advantage, you will need to post content that consistently generates high levels of engagement. The first step in identifying such content is making sure you know and understand your audience. Who are they? What do they like? What do they dislike? What are their aspirations and lifestyle? What about content preferences? You’ll have answer all of these questions to truly figure out what content will rake in likes and comments. The next step in crafting your Instagram strategy is to think about the value your content provides. (highlight to tweet) Sure, pretty pictures are dandy, but they have to evoke emotional responses and provide some sort of value. Let’s examine some amazing examples of carefully crafted Instagram strategy that works. 1. Provide Inspiration People love to be inspired. Inspiration lies behind all great things and inventions. Digital magazine Foundr understands this. Foundr’s audience consists of young entrepreneurs—movers and shakers. Naturally, it only makes sense that Foundr tries to provide inspiration through success stories, interviews, and great quotes that push their audience to keep going and pursuing their dreams. This strategy has definitely worked for the publication. When it comes to Instagram marketing, they are a recognized authority. Their follower base of nearly 700,000 followers is the proof Foundr “gets” them. One strategy anyone can borrow from Foundr is including a call to action on every single post they share . It can be something as simple as “double tap if you agree,” or “tag your friends,” or “let us know what you think.” This simple yet powerful strategy increases engagement because it straightforwardly asks for it. 2. Produce Stunning Visuals You’d be hard-pressed to find a more visual network than Instagram. It comes as no surprise that your visuals have to be up to par. While the platform is predominantly mobile, grainy or dark images from your phone won’t cut it anymore.

Cy Sears5 Strategies for Boosting Engagement on Instagram