Do small businesses need to be on Instagram… Hell Yeah!
More than 1 billion people actively use Instagram every day making it an invaluable social media platform for businesses to harness. In terms of marketing, Instagram is a versatile app that can allow small business to stand out from the bigger corporations. If your business isn’t already on the platform, then here are six reasons why you should make a company account as soon as possible:
1. A chance to make creative content
Every business can benefit from some visually striking pictures to promote their products and services. Instagram gives you free rein to be as creative as you want with your images and videos in order to attract an audience and direct them to your online site. Make sure your posts reflect your branding so that they are instantly recognisable by customers. You can even organise colour themes and backgrounds that will make your business’s Instagram feed more aesthetically pleasing.
2. You can check your analytics
You control your business Instagram account which means you can track the success and traction that different posts attract. Unlike broadcast or print media advertising, you can control every aspect of your business promotion including what time you schedule your posts as well as which audiences you want your posts to reach. Most importantly, Instagram analytics allow you to learn from any past marketing mistakes so that all of your future posts will have the intended reach and impact.
3. Build a community
It goes without saying that your target audience is crucial to the success of your business. Instagram allows you to build a community of loyal customers and consumers that want to keep up to date with the products and services you provide. Keep an eye on your mentions and repost anyone who promotes your business; this shows your appreciation and that you truly do care about your customers. If you want to give back to the community and also promote your brand, consider hosting a giveaway or competition if your followers promote your post and tag their friends.
4. Use influencer marketing
Paying for advertisement can be expensive, especially for a business that is just starting up; luckily, there are other ways to promote your brand on Instagram without breaking the bank. Influencers with a significant following can promote your brand and products to their followers for a much lower cost.
5. You can get your business trending
It only takes one unique post to blow up and get the internet talking. Before you know it, your small business will have boomed into a successful corporation and of it could be down to the success of one post. Until then, use hashtags to your advantage and try to attract as many relevant followers to your account as possible.
6. Keep an eye on the competition
Your competitors are likely to have an Instagram account for themselves, but this is something you can use to your advantage. People interacting with rival brands might also be interested in the products and services that you provide, so drop them a DM and start forging a business relationship with them.
