It’s no secret that the Instagram algorithm is transitioning to no longer thrive on photo-sharing. While supporting videos, Reels, creators, and other features more prominently, Instagram can still support your photos if you want them to. Yes, you heard that right! This update was a big shock to me too, but I am here to share with you how to leverage your Instagram for growth after the new update.
Since Instagram still values photo creators, photos are NOT going anywhere. However, Instagram WILL be experimenting with embracing video more broadly. So, let’s embrace it! Day by day I am getting more comfortable with the idea of Reels and other ways to share content. I invite you to come along on this journey with me and open your eyes to the possibilities of growth as you adapt these few tips to your Instagram.
Post With Intention
It’s easy to get into the swing of mass content creation and get burnt out on content ideas. When that burnout sets in, I want to encourage you not to post just to post. Your followers are relying on you to stay true to your message and be focused in order to support their needs.
If you’re struggling with content ideas and need a little support, begin first by reevaluating your mission, your purpose as a business owner/influencer, and go back to the basics. Sometimes the more simple the idea, the easier it is for your followers to connect. Just be YOU and go from there!
Start By Sharing A Short Video Or Reel
You don’t have to dive in completely and begin sharing only videos and Reels, because honestly that’s a huge learning curve and sounds stressful. It’s perfectly ok to start small by doing a quick Google search about How To Create Reels and begin from there! Take a simple concept, tutorial, or business topic and share your heart.
If Reels scare you too much and you’re not quite ready to dive in, that’s ok too! I would encourage you to utilize your Stories to begin getting comfortable with video in general. Using your Instagram Stories to show your face is how some people find they reach their audience best, like me! Most commonly, I share about common struggles my audience has with Instagram, share tips, and what I do during the day. If you stick to your content pillars you can still continue sharing your content with a little personal video touch!
Don’t Stop Posting Photos
Do you know what kind of photos perform best with your audience? If not, this is a good time to begin monitoring so that you’re aware of what type of content your followers want or need. Go through your profile and make notes about what post topics, photos, carousels, quotes, etc. perform the best, and DO NOT STOP SHARING PHOTOS.
Since photo-sharing isn’t completely going away it’s still ok t
Keep Engagement Up To Grow
On top of staying current with your followers, don’t forget to also keep up with your engagement! I like to encourage my clients and followers to engage once a day. Whether it’s in DMs or comments, either way, make an intentional connection in addition to ‘Liking’ the content.
Engagement adds the personal connection piece to the relationship you have with your audience and bonds the bond of trust they have with you. Remain transparent, trustworthy, and authentic. Be willing to modify a few things here and there to leverage your content and continue reaching your audience effectively!
Exactly what we can expect from this update is still unclear, however, the app is changing, and we as creators should prepare to adapt! You can successfully move forward with photo-sharing (like me!) while also trying new video opportunities. Use this update as a fun opportunity to get even more strategic and to learn new things as you leverage your Instagram for growth!
I’m curious, what are your thoughts or opinions on this new update? Tell me in the comments!
Love,
Monica