Instagram is one of the fastest rising social media platforms. Since launching in 2010, the platform has changed its look and introduced some of the most imitated features that its competitors are scrambling to keep up with. Stories and Polls are just a couple of these success stories. So it’s easy to see how it has become the most-used social channel around. Between 2016 and 2018, Instagram’s membership doubled. So what are you waiting for? Right now, your digital marketing strategy should be centred around Instagram.
Of its 1 billion active users, 60% open the app every day. That makes Instagram the most engaged social platform, despite having just 1 third of Facebook’s users numbers. Instagram has affected how people use the internet. It makes them scroll faster due to its visual appeal, and hooks into the dopamine hit achieved by the gratification of Likes and notifications.
And it’s not just for individuals. 80% of Instagram users follow at least one brand, with 60% discovering new products on the platform. However, 90% of Instagram’s users are under 35 years old. So if your target audience is over 50 or under 15, you may not think it’s worth joining the 25 million companies that are currently active there.
Using Instagram
If your company sells a visual product or service, Instagram is made for you. Just create a clear and memorable brand, and you’ll have no trouble attracting followers to your page. But even if your business isn’t naturally aligned with visual sales, that doesn’t mean you should avoid the platform altogether. Just share behind the scenes stories, updates from the day-to-day working of your company, and what your team is doing. Behind the scenes content goes a long way. Plus, it shows how users can benefit from what you’re delivering.
Advertising on Instagram
Instagram users are over 70% more likely to buy products on mobile that non-users. In fact, over a third of Instagram users regularly use their phone to shop online. This kind of statistic proves how Instagram increases the chance of click-through and sales conversions from advertising. And that’s not to mention how it raises awareness through increased audience reach. 2 million brands are now advertising on Instagram, so if you’ve got the budget, jump on board. Just remember that as Instagram is owned by Facebook, you’ll need to manage your Ads through Facebook Business Manager.
Influencer ads
But using Instagram’s own advertising tool isn’t the only way to reach new followers. After all, it is Instagram that birthed the social media influencer. Starting with celebrities like the Kardashians subtly promoting products that their followers instantly bought, now, anyone can do it.
Today’s influencer is more likely to be a regular Instagram user that has developed influence in their industry. From fashion, to sport, and even cleaning –celebrities are out and ‘real’ influencers are in. So research and identify the key influencers in your field. And connect with them to increase the trust and impact of your advertising.
Tag it
70% of the most used hashtags on Instagram are branded. So make sure you hook into the tags used by others in your industry, and also create your own. Hashtags are used by people exploring Instagram for new content. It means these users are more open to your brand than those who stick to their own newsfeeds. So make the most of them! Average engagement on Instagram posts has increased by 416% in the past two years. So tap into every resource the platform has available for best results.
Tell your story
Stories are one of the most popular features of Instagram, and they set it apart from other platforms with similar tools. Stories are quick snapshots where you can showcase what you’re doing. Think behind the scenes at the office, the events you attend, etc. They are viewable for just 24 hours, and can be saved onto your profile as Highlights to permanently showcase certain aspects of your brand.
There’s a lot of stats to take in when it comes to social media’s hottest platform! If you’re still not sure if Instagram – or any social channel – is the right fit for you, then we can help. Contact our team of Insta experts today, and find out how OggaDoon can help bring your digital marketing into the Instagram generation.
