What does the future of Instagram look like in 2024
Navigating the ever-evolving landscape of Instagram can be dizzying, with new trends, functionalities and algorithm updates emerging constantly. We have taken a peak 👀
For small businesses this can be overwhelming but we've got your back. Here's your go-to guide for staying on top of the game in 2024 without the overwhelm.
1. Text Posts Take the Spotlight
In a world that often seems dominated by visuals, text-only posts are quietly becoming the sleeper hit of the year. We have been testing text overlays on posts and the verdict is they are definitely increasing reach and performance.
2. The New Search Engine 🔍
Move over, traditional search engines! In 2024, social media channels are the go-to for real insights from real people. Platforms like TikTok are integrating Google search results, posing a significant threat to the search giant. Social search is evolving, so it's time to answer your audience's questions on social media or risk losing out to competitors. Danielle and I predominantly use the Instagram search functionality for research purposes. Sorry Google but more and more of us are heading that way.
3. Video content is still the darling of Instagram
Buckle up for the return of longer videos! With platforms increasing their max video lengths, users turning to social networks for answers, and people seeking entertainment on social media, longer videos (2-5 minutes) are gaining traction, TikTok are already testing this and as Instagram Reels took it’s inspiration from here, expect them to follow suit. Experiment with longer Instagram Reels for a chance to capture attention but whatever you do, don’t overlook micro Reels and including a hook - video format will continue to grow well into 2024.
4. AI is here to stay
Now this is marmite, love it or hate it, it is here to stay. And grow. It is a little scary but we will see lots more tools being rolled out next year: caption writing, prompts, and avatars. Instagram are keen for us to stay in the app so these new updates will essentially be there to help and not hinder us. We just have to get on board and roll with it. Remember when Reels first landed and we all thought we had to learn to dance and point?
5. Engagement Shifts to DMs
Say goodbye to cluttered feeds and hello to more engagement in DMs. While social feeds are filled with various content, personal updates from friends, family and warm audiences are shifting to private spaces like DMs. The real action is happening behind the scenes, so encourage your audience to DM you with questions and feedback
Private content sharing, think Close Friends in Stories is now being rolled out onto Reels and Grid posts - stay tuned for more news as we hear it. We really like this new update.
6. Shares Trump Likes, Comments, and Followers
Shares are the new currency of engagement. Unlike likes and comments, shares represent genuine value. Design your content to be shareable, Instagram are making share counts more visible. Make sure your content is entertaining and encourage sharing. It's a nod to the importance of genuine endorsement and the algorithm LOVES it.
7. Photo Dumps Dominate the Feed
‘Photo Dumps’ Now this is not a word I am a fan of but apparently, it is trending! Formerly ‘carousels’, photo dumps are the new norm. They allow for better storytelling, participation in trends, and authentic connections with the audience. More hover time is spent on this type of content so the algorithm reads this as a great piece of content and will continue to push it out to more accounts. Plan your photo dumps strategically, ensuring that the first photo grabs attention. It's a cost-effective way to deliver information and engage your audience
8. In app shopping made smooth and easy
Now this has already rolled out in the US so it won’t be long before we enjoy shopping without having to leave the Instagram sphere. This is will be a great tool for small businesses to sell.
9. Authenticity - last but not least…
Now we really like this one, this is something smaller businesses can excel at. Showing up and being you, the unique face behind the business is something that cannot be easily cribbed. Authenticity is about being genuine, it helps build relationships and trust. Social media is about being social, you can show up, be you and build authentic relationships which will help grow your brand on Instagram. Have a look at your analytics and without doubt, those pieces of content where you show up and are true to your brand will be the posts with the higher numbers
Authenticity continues to be the cornerstone of success in the digital age, fostering trust and loyalty.
Businesses that connect transparently with their audience, showcasing their human side, will build lasting relationships. Share behind-the-scenes glimpses, employee spotlights, and stories about your brand's values to foster trust and loyalty. As consumers become more discerning, authenticity will drive the success of small businesses on social media.
Instagram is a fantastic free tool for marketing your business, any updates and changes and new roll outs are always a little overwhelming to get used to. But the bottom line is that we are all learning and we have to embrace change and roll with it. Head to the blog where there are more details of more updates.
If you are already thinking that 2024 will be the year you tackle your Instagram and make it work for your business drop us a line and we can chat.