Many brands are still not effectively using social media channels to their advantage, depending on your type of business, there are multiple social channels available. These channels give you direct access to thousands of potential customers if you use it properly.
Instagram is becoming increasingly popular. It is no longer about editing your photo’s with multiple different filters; it’s about sharing visual moments. If you have exciting things to sell then there is no reason for you not to capitalize on the Instagram market by sharing visual moments.
#Share Visual Moments
Regular posting of great images is the first step to getting started. Ensure that your pictures are creative; Instagram is not a place for boring pictures. It is all about the visual; instead of selling your customer a product, sell them an experience and take them on a journey with you. Show your followers some behind the scenes action and do not be scared to use the video feature as well.
#Engage, Like and Follow
Use a few hashtags to increase your engagement. Hashtags are great for increasing your following and engagement and we recommend sticking to 5 hashtags as a maximum. Stats have shown that hashtags work but only if it’s done right. And remember, hashtags are searchable.
#Hyperlinks
The Instagram application is constantly being updated and we are hoping in the near future hyperlinks within comments will be allowed but unfortunately for brands, you are limited to one hyperlink only. Hyperlinks in comments aren’t allowed and you will need to place product specific links in the bio.
Tip: Don’t forget to change the link regularly, based on what you’re posting.
#Partner with Instagram Celebs
Competitions are always an excellent way to increase your followers. Team up with Instagram celeb bloggers who have a high following; there are tons of South African bloggers using this platform. They might be interested in product reviews and giveaways via their Instagram account.
There are over 1 million active Instagram users in South Africa and local brands are finally catching up. Perfect South African examples of brands doing well on Instagram include Yuppiechef, South African Tourism and Woolworths. Use these as examples and learn about what works for them before applying it to your business.
Let us help you
We also understand that Instagram isn’t easy to use for everyone, which is why our team is skilled to assist you with creating and managing your Instagram account. If you would like to find out more about using Instagram for your business then chat to Mashup Marketing.
