7 TIPS FOR USING INSTAGRAM FOR BUSINESS

1. SHOW YOUR PRODUCTS

Promote mobile window-shopping by using Instagram to show off a collection of your products. Snap photos of new products to build a buzz, or zoom in for a close shot on one product and ask your users to guess what it is. Photos attract users, but conversations engage them. If your small business is service-oriented, show off the supplies and equipment that are essential to the services you provide. For example, show off your favorite workout gear if fitness is your business, or reveal you’re most impressive lenses if you are a photographer.

2. INTRODUCE YOUR EMPLOYEES

Introducing your followers to the people who are behind your company humanizes your brand. Cast the Instagram spotlight on special employees, and use the caption to share a bit about the employee. Make spotlighting an ongoing campaign that features staff from different departments within your company to put a human face on your brand.

3. EXPAND YOUR AUDIENCE

Connect Instagram to your other social networks and use relevant hashtags (#yourbrandhere) to make it easier for people to find your account.

4. SHOW WHAT YOUR PRODUCTS CAN DO

Use Instagram to increase demand by showing customers new or novel ways to use your products. Engage your followers by inviting user-generated content. Challenge them to post photos showing off creative uses of your products. If your business is service-oriented, show the impact of your work with before and after shots. These are especially effective for landscaping, interior design, fitness, makeup or auto-body.

5. ENGAGE DIRECTLY WITH USERS

Ask questions in your photo caption, and respond to comments. You can also organize local Instagram meet-ups!

6. BUILD ANTICIPATION

Keeping customer interest is an essential part of an effective marketing campaign. Reward your loyal followers by letting them be the first to know about new products, services or events. Snap teaser photos that satisfy curiosity but build anticipation for your new releases, office openings or stores. These exclusive previews make your Instagram followers feel special and keep them coming back for more insider information.

7. SHOW HOW IT’S MADE

Customers have a natural curiosity about where their products come from, and you can use Instagram to show the origins of all their favorite products. Snap photos throughout the manufacturing process, from planning to delivery.

Below is a video that showcases how some of the best brands on Instagram—@nikerunning, @generalelectric and @benandjerrys—bring their stories to life and constantly connect with their communities.