How To Build Your Brand On Instagram
Starting your Instagram branding from scratch can seem like a tall order task. Far too often we see brands on Instagram turn their channels into graveyards. Typically you see about 15 photos, 150 followers and zero updates in the last couple of months. But Instagram branding isn’t an easy task. Gaining the trust, engagement and attention of Instagram users is no a walk in the park either. In fact, eMarketer discovered less than 50% of brands are actively on Instagram. While the agency expects that number to increase to roughly 71% by 2017, there’s still a lot businesses can learn about the social network. Here are some tips on how to build your brand on instagram:
1. Create a profile.
You need to create a separate business profile on Instagram which posts content that is relevant to your business. Adding a call to action along with a link in the bio is helpful in getting your target to visit your website, your landing page, or a contact page. You need to showcase the core value proposition of your business in the profile bio. Using searched keywords or hashtags in the bio is optional since these are not considered in Instagram search results.
2. It’s all about the visuals.
Users are more likely to act if they can easily recognize your brand from miles away. To achieve that, you just need to follow these four key rules:
• Create visuals that are consistent in style and quality
• Choose a color scheme and stick to it whenever possible
• If you use filters, make sure to use the same ones
• Don’t overcrowd your images and captions with text.
If you execute well, then your brand will be recognized immediately, even if a user only glances at an individual image in their stream.
3. Be authentic.
You remember what your mom always told you growing up? “Just be yourself!” You probably didn’t believe her whenever you were a kid, and maybe you still don’t. But she had a point. People can smell b.s. from a mile away, even on social media. If you really want to succeed at growing your personal brand, then you need to learn how to use Instagram authentically.
4. Define your goals.
Before you post your first post on Instagram, ask yourself why you want your brand to be there. The good thing is, goals change as you grow.
5. Establish an identity and make it all on your own.
For starters, businesses need to approach development on Instagram in the same way they would begin website development: with a clear plan of how the design is going to establish the brand identity. This begins with designing a profile on the platform. There are three key areas to consider: the profile picture, URL link, and profile description. For the profile picture, consider personalizing it in the best way suited for your brand, choose either a consistent logo or go with a personal photo of someone who is the face of your brand. Now, when it comes to your profile description, think SEO. Here, it’s most important that you utilize keywords to let users know what your brand’s all about. Keep it short, sweet, and to the point.
Lastly, choose a consistent theme and style for your posts. This should fit the bill of your brand’s identity and website design. Are you, for example, are you a clothing company focused on bohemian fashions that follow the latest trends for those living free through music, art, fashion and travel? Then it may be wise to keep your posts in line with a colorful, inspiring and trendy vibe. You should also be taking full advantage of the platform’s intrinsic grid layout. Utilize the white space to frame your posts, or map out your posts so that each one reveals a small portion of a larger picture. This tactic can help keep your content fresh, while heightening user excitement and suspense for what’s to come.