There's no magic formula for this, but we've selected 7 habits to optimize your account and increase your chances of success on Instagram.
Know the two most important engagement metrics on Instagram
There are several ways to get engagement on Instagram to date. On a particular publication, there are 4 engagement parameters:
- The like;
- Commentary;
- Sharing ;
- Recording.
But all these parameters do not fluctuate in the same way depending on what you publish:
- A simple photo will surely win a large number of likes, but few shares and registrations;
- Conversely, a relevant guide with value for your audience should be easily shared and saved, even if this publication would get few likes compared to a photo.
The fact is, shares and check-ins are the engagement metrics that are most important to success on Instagram. They prove that your content brings value to your audience. This is something that Instagram's algorithm emphasizes to users who aren't yet part of your audience by showing them your publication.
Favoring the creation of content that encourages these two engagement parameters can thus increase your chances of success on Instagram.
A perfect bio on Instagram
We can't stress this enough: neglecting your bio on Instagram is one of the major mistakes to avoid at all costs. It's the first thing a user will read when they arrive on your profile: it needs to be carefully written to help convert a passing reader into a subscriber.
To do this, take the time to write a clear and precise bio to succeed on Instagram: fill in what you do and who you can help. Your bio should enable your target audience to recognize you and find you relevant in what you can offer them.
Don't hesitate to test several versions of your bio to make sure it's as effective as possible.
Use all the features to succeed on Instagram
The social networking algorithm is a complex enigma whose unknown key changes on a regular basis. There are, however, some basic understandings that don't change. For example, a social network will appreciate content that keeps its users on the platform for as long as possible.
Social networks also appreciate it when you actually use their platform. Here are two examples:
- An account that simply publishes a single image from time to time and disconnects directly afterwards;
- An account that regularly publishes publications in a variety of formats and uses the platform in other ways(stories, like, commenting on other publications, etc.).
You guessed it, the account that uses a lot of Instagram features and formats will win. This is an essential first step in understanding what your audience prefers...
Pushing the best-selling format to the limit
... in fact, there's a good chance that some formats will work better than others, depending on your audience and your field. By taking the time to test all of Instagram's features over time, you'll be able to isolate one or two formats that are particularly relevant to your audience.
Once you've identified these formats, take advantage of them. Make the most of the formats that bring you the most, whether they're IGTV, real or carousels.
Keep it simple to succeed on Instagram
There's one rule that applies on many levels if you want to succeed in your project: simplicity is the key. Complexity will only get you into trouble.
Long sentences?
Complicated content with lots of ideas?
Endless steps to direct your audience?
None of this is good for success on Instagram.
For example, if Instagram is just a stepping stone to the heart of your project (coaching, blogging, training, etc.), simplifying your audience's journey to your goal is a must. Be content witha single link, a single type of relevant call to action that will redirect your reader to the same place.
Tip: you can use Linktree to have a single link listing several destinations. Keep in mind, however, that the idea here too is to keep things simple: list only a few links, not 10, at the risk of confusing and discouraging your reader.
Relevance or strategy for Instagram content?
You've probably already heard that it's essential to have a content strategy to succeed on Instagram.
This is absolutely true, but there is one exception: news. Your strategy obviously allows you to publish content in tune with the times, but relevant content that bounces off the ubiquitous current events in your field has a power that shouldn't be missed.
Obviously, it's not a question of covering every possible news item like BFMTV or a daily paper, but rather of not missing out on a major event in your specific field.
Bouncing off relevant news will make your subsequent content more impactful for your audience.
Making time for your best subscribers
When publishing content on Instagram, we sometimes forget that we're on a social network. The tips we've shared with you take this aspect into account in a rather indirect way. It's time for this last tip to actively press the "social" side for Instagram success.
We therefore advise you to interact as much as possible with your audience, and in particular with the loyal members of your audience. Those who comment on all your publications? Who share your content? Who DM you? These are your best subscribers. Return the favor by showing them in concrete terms that this matters to you: subscribe to their account and engage with their content.
There, that was our 7 habits to optimize your account to increase your chances of success on Instagram:
- Create content your audience will want to share and save;
- Write a clear Instagram bio for your target audience;
- Test all the features of Instagram ...
- ... by taking advantage of the formats that work best for you;
- Keep it simple;
- Bounce back on relevant news in your field;
- Engage with your best subscribers.
By regularly applying these tips to your content, you'll be able to effectively provoke the chance to succeed on Instagram. If you need to talk about your strategy for being present on social networks, we can talk!
