Promoting your business effectively on Instagram

Instagram has become a household name around the world and the statistics speak for themselves as to why your business needs to be on this visual social network. According to statistics compiled by Hootsuite, Instagram has earned a place in the top 10 most visited websites globally. 3Cube Property Solutions takes a closer look at this social phenomenon and what it can do for your commercial or industrial enterprise.

Important facts about Instagram

The first thing to know about Instagram before launching your marketing strategy is that 18 to 24-year-olds make up the biggest percentage of its audience. Globally, internet users between the ages of 16 and 24 have rated Instagram as their favourite social platform - outranking both Facebook and Tiktok. If your products are designed to appeal to Gen Z, they need to be marketed on Instagram. Another fact worth noting is that nine out of ten users watch Instagram videos at least weekly, so it's important to provide your audience with high-quality video content. Instagram is also popular among millennials and Generation X.

Using Instagram to market your business

First things first: you need to make sure that your Instagram is set up correctly. You need to have a business profile rather than a personal profile. It's easy to switch between the two, and once you've done it, your followers will be able to tap on a contact button to get in touch with your business directly from your Instagram page. Having a business page will also give you credibility and the ability to create and publish Instagram adverts.

Share Instagram stories along with posts

In order to be seen as a credible business (and not one that was forced to close during the pandemic) it is important to keep your Instagram feed up to date. Try to post something new at least twice a week, and don't neglect Instagram stories in your marketing strategy. Stories allow your brand to stay at the top of your followers' feeds throughout the day.

Great ideas for Instagram posts include both promotional and non-promotional content. If your brand is perceived as one that constantly posts adverts, you'll be unfollowed quickly. Make your brand interesting and inspire loyalty by uploading posts that show what happens behind the scenes, what makes you unique and what charities or causes you support.

When it comes to content for your Instagram stories, here are a couple of ideas. If you're representing your business at an event, shoot a quick video to let your audience know what's going on. You can also post items on sale or product samples to show your audience what you have to offer. Shoot a video of a staff member showing how their job is done or explaining how something works.

Add relevant hashtags to your posts

You can't browse through Instagram without seeing hashtags on posts. If these #hashtags are used right, they can help your target audience find you on Instagram. By using hashtags relevant to your brand, you can become part of conversations around your products and services. While Instagram will allow you to have up to 30 hashtags on a single post, we recommend eight to 12 to strike a balance between a post that looks good and a message that will reach your audience.

Three quick tricks for Instagram success

1. Follow people and businesses related to your industry. You can also try following local media outlets and celebrities. If they follow you back, you start to grow your presence.
2. Add an Instagram button to your website so that people know they can find you here. If it will work for your brand, you can also link your Facebook strategy to your Instagram so that when you post on one platform, your content appears on both.
3. Encourage people to follow you on Instagram by posting exclusive content that they won't find anywhere else. Another great idea is to run a competition or giveaway on Instagram to drive engagement and increase your following.

Getting your Instagram looking good is an important part of your overall marketing strategy and it will lay the foundation for your online success. Similarly, having the right premises will lay the foundations for your business's overall success. If you need help finding the right commercial or industrial property in Gauteng, contact 3Cube Property Solutions today.