Instagram has become one of the most popular social media platforms in the world, with over a billion active users. As a content creator or influencer, it's essential to understand how to create content that performs well on Instagram and ranks highly with the platform's algorithm. In this post, we'll explore eight tips for creating content that engages your audience, increases your reach, and builds a loyal following on Instagram. From high-quality visuals and compelling captions to relevant hashtags and Instagram Stories, these tips will help you optimise your content and stay ahead of the competition on the platform.
- Research and understand Instagram's algorithm: Understanding the Instagram algorithm is key to creating content that performs well. Instagram's algorithm is based on user engagement, so creating content that engages your audience is crucial. Factors that impact the algorithm include likes, comments, shares, saves, and how often a user engages with your content. Increasingly things like video, sound quality and sub titles are being viewed as important measures of quality and will impact the performance and prioritisation provided to your content.
- Create high-quality visuals: Instagram is a visual platform, so creating high-quality visuals is essential. Use good lighting, choose interesting angles, and consider the overall aesthetic of your feed. Ensure that your images and videos are clear, vibrant, and engaging.
- Write compelling captions: Captions are an essential part of your Instagram post, and they can greatly impact your engagement rate. Write captions that are relatable, informative, and engaging. Consider adding hashtags, call-to-actions, or questions to encourage your audience to engage with your content.
- Use relevant hashtags: Using relevant hashtags is one of the most effective ways to increase your reach and engagement. Choose hashtags that are relevant to your content, audience, and niche. Consider using a mix of popular and niche-specific hashtags. It’s important here to think more about quality than quantity with hashtags as platforms are increasingly starting to view high numbers of hashtags as spam.
- Post at the right time: Posting at the right time is crucial to maximise your reach and engagement. Instagram's algorithm favours posts that receive engagement shortly after being posted, so consider posting when your audience is most active. Use Instagram Insights to track your audience's activity and optimise your posting schedule accordingly.
- Utilise Instagram Stories: Instagram Stories are a great way to increase engagement and showcase your personality. Use features like polls, questions, and quizzes to encourage your audience to engage with your content. Consider using Stories to provide behind-the-scenes content, sneak peeks, or exclusive offers. It’s no secret that Instagram have invested heavily in Stories in direct response to the success seen by TikTok, and as a result they are increasingly prioritising content created with Stories.
- Collaborate with other creators: Collaborating with other creators can increase your reach and engagement by introducing your content to new audiences. Consider collaborating on a post, hosting an Instagram Live together, or participating in a challenge or hashtag.
- Engage with your audience: Engaging with your audience is essential to building a loyal following and increasing your engagement rate. Respond to comments, DMs, and mentions, and consider hosting Q&A sessions or Instagram Lives to encourage interaction with your audience.
In short, creating content that performs well on Instagram requires a combination of high-quality visuals, engaging captions, relevant hashtags, and consistent engagement with your audience. By understanding the Instagram algorithm and utilising the platform's features, content creators and influencers can increase their reach and engagement and build a loyal following.
