where do i put all my effort on instagram?

For businesses trying to navigate the world of Instagram, it can be overwhelming and confusing with all the free advice that's available. One minute, you're being told that Reels are the future and you need to be posting them daily, but the next minute, the algorithm changes and suddenly your engagement is down. It can feel like a never-ending cycle of trying to keep up with the latest trends and constantly shifting goalposts. It's important to remember that while Instagram can be a powerful tool for business, it's just one part of a larger marketing strategy. Instead of getting caught up in the latest trends, businesses should focus on creating quality content that resonates with their audience and aligns with their brand values. By taking a strategic and thoughtful approach, businesses can avoid feeling overwhelmed and instead, use Instagram as a powerful tool to connect with their target market.

That said, it is really important to fully understand the different aspects of Instagram's functionality because it allows businesses to maximise their potential on the platform. By understanding the features and tools available, businesses can create a strong presence and reach a wider audience. It also allows businesses to tailor their content and strategy to better engage with their target audience and achieve their marketing goals. Without a full understanding of the platform's features and how to use them effectively, businesses may miss out on valuable opportunities to connect with customers and grow their brand.

One of the most common questions we get asked is "Should I put all my effort into a Reels only strategy?" Well in all honesty, the answer isn't that simple. The truth is, a healthy Instagram account is one that uses all of the functionalities and we strongly encourage businesses to do just that. All the different parts of Instagram work together to reach the audience you have and the audience you want to reach, in strategic ways.

So, let's dive into each feature and see how you can make the most of it!

Instagram Grid/Feed

The Instagram grid is the centre piece of your profile. It's where your audience comes to see what you're all about. It's the first impression you make and you want it to be a good one, you do’t get a second chance at a first impression! The grid is all about education, inspiration, information, and social proof. Use it to showcase your brand's personality and what sets you apart from the competition.  Post a mix of eye-catching graphics and polished photos that demonstrate the value you offer.  Don’t forget carousels work brilliantly on the grid and can help increase your engagement.

Stories

Stories are the perfect place to connect with the audience you already have. They give you an opportunity to show the behind-the-scenes of your business, share quick tips, and build a sense of community with your followers. Use stories to give your audience a glimpse into your life in real time and let them get to know the people behind the brand. Share photos and videos that showcase your brand's personality and make your followers feel like they're a part of the action.  We also love the fun aspect of Stories, the stickers, gifs and interactive buttons really encourage your audience to engage.  We always advise our clients to let their hair down with Stories and bring some energy to Insta!

Instagram Reels

Reels are the newest kid on the block (introduced in 2020), and they made a big impact!  Reels are all about entertaining and relatable content in your niche. They're a great way to get new eyes on your content and reach a wider audience. The key to creating great Reels is to make them fun, upbeat, and relatable, yet short and sweet. Use music, graphics, and animation to create a visually appealing experience for your audience. Don't be afraid to get creative and think outside the box.

Lives

Lives are a fantastic way to educate and demonstrate your experience to your audience. They're a great platform for collaboration too. Use Lives to answer questions, share your expertise, and give your audience a chance to interact with you in real-time. Make sure your Lives are well planned and engaging, so your audience stays tuned in.

In a recent interview, Instagram's head, @mosseri, acknowledged that in 2022, the app became too focused on video content, resulting in fewer photo posts. However, they have since balanced things out, ensuring equal engagement between photo and video content. Thus, it is essential to create a mix of photo and video content, track audience insights, and focus on what works best to maintain a healthy Instagram account.

A balanced approach to using all the features of Instagram is key to reaching your target audience and achieving your goals. The Grid is great for growth and serving your current audience, Stories are good for connecting with your audience, Reels are great for growth and reaching new audiences, and Lives are good for educating and demonstrating your expertise to your audience. By using a combination of these features, you can create a strong and engaging presence on Instagram that your followers will love.

So what type of content should you be posting in 2023?  The key is to mix things up with photos, carousels, and reels to keep your audience engaged. Don't be afraid to experiment and see what works best for your followers - after all, you know them better than anyone. Keep an eye on your insights and adjust your content accordingly. And don't worry if your reels views are down compared to last year - it's all good because Instagram is listening to its users and making changes accordingly!

So, don't be afraid to mix it up and have fun with your Instagram content! Remember, Instagram is a visual platform, so let your creativity shine, happy posting!