Not everyone has hopped on the Instagram bandwagon, but many (like me) have and the number of users keeps growing by the day. While Instagram does not have the ability to create business-specific profiles or built-in engagement metric tools, this social network does succeed in being simple and effective for promotional purposes.
Instagram has created its own unique and specific space in the social media world; it combines mobile usage with photo-sharing and allows companies to reach out to new audiences in a simple, intriguing way. What’s great about Instagram (aside from the fact that it can make anyone look like an amazing photographer), is that you are able to connect this network to your other social platforms. A company can share Instagram photos of specific products, jobs completed, etc. throughout Facebook, Twitter and Foursquare, which not only promotes the company in each social venue, but also allows you to increase your exposure for more potential Instagram followers who find your photo through one of your other social platforms.
Personally, I think that most people connected through the social network sphere are more attracted to things that are visually appealing: a great, captivating photo or even a funny, interesting video. Instagram accomplishes this interest through its “visual storytelling.” However, just like with any other SEO or marketing strategy, a company or brand needs to utilize this network correctly. A recent article provided several tips for users to ensure that they are allowing for optimal exposure and success.
1) Don’t over-post. Posting more than three photos in a row, or more than once every three hours could be too much. You don’t want to overwhelm your followers and you certainly don’t want to appear as if you are trying too hard to gain viewers’ attention.
2) Choose the same username as your Twitter handle. This will allow users to easily find you that already follow your company or brand on Twitter. Plus, a company should remain consistent across all networks, as this makes them appear more structured and professional.
3) Like posts, don’t over-hashtag. You want to make sure that you use the correct and most appropriate hashtags that could lead to more followers and people of interest. Don’t hashtag #every #single #word just to try and increase photo views, as this once again makes you appear as if you are trying too hard and it can even lead to you looking like a spammer.
At the end of the day, Instagram is not only a great visual tool to use for your company, it’s also a lot of fun. In any media marketing strategy, visuals are important and can create a huge impression on your targeted audience. Why not use a network that is quick, easy, and allows you to really stand out with a great shot? Instagram opens up a whole new community of potential followers and maybe even customers, helping your company continue expanding.
-Casey Guntlow
If you are interested in more SEO techniques or would like to hire us to manage your reputation online contact us at: sales@getfoundquick.com or call 857.526.0096.
Boston Web Marketing | 215 Lewis Wharf Boston | MA 02110 | www.getfoundquick.com