Instagram is one of the most successful social media platforms in the world. Since its launch, Instagram’s user base has skyrocketed to 1 billion.  Users express that they find it easier to gain impressions for Instagram posts rather than Facebook & YouTube.  These statistics indicate why so many businesses are jumping on Instagram to promote their brand and generate sales conversions. In this guide, we will see the ins and outs of Instagram and how brands can use them to grow their business on Instagram. 

What Is Instagram Marketing?

 Instagram marketing is one type of social media marketing that allows brands and marketers to promote their business using the Instagram platform. Marketing on Instagram helps you to sell your products or services, boost followers, build relationships with potential audiences and increase website traffic and sales. 

There are two main categories to use Instagram for marketing.

Paid Tactics

It allows users to promote brands with advertising and influencer marketing.

Unpaid Tactics

It lets users create organic content such as Instagarm posts, stories, reels, and IGTV to connect and engage with their target audience. 

How To Market On Instagram

Like other social media marketing, the Instagram marketing strategy will work best if you have a clear goal. Follow the below strategy to achieve your business goals on Instagram. 

#1: Find Goals And Objectives

The goals and objectives are the pillars of your Instagram marketing strategy. Whether a small business or a big brand, it is essential to follow the SMART ideas for reaching your goals. 

Specific: Set an exact number of goals instead of a huge one. 

Measurable: choose goals that are measurable and trackable with Instagram analytics

Attainable: Be real

Relevant: Stay related to your business and industry

Time-bound: Set a time frame to achieve your goals

Once you are clear with your Instagram marketing goals, it is the right time to create great content that reaches your business goals. 

#2: Build Instagram Content Strategy

There are several ways to build your content strategy on Instagram. Choose the best one for your business and reach a wider audience. Find your target audience using the Instagram insights and create content that resonates with them. Make sure to create unique content which increases your brand awareness on the platform. 

Check the top-performing posts from your competitors, similar brands, and the most famous account on Instagram. Doing content research will help you to create engaging content that can take your Instagram profile to the next level. 

#3: Share Instagram Stories

According to the research, more than 500 million people use Instagram stories daily. With a short lifespan of 24 hours, stories excite and encourage users to watch and share stories with their friends. Stories are a great addition to the Instagram marketing strategy, enabling brands to connect with their potential audience. 

Many businesses share behind the scene videos to obtain real views on Instagram stories and strengthen their brand awareness among a massive audience. In addition, poll your audience on a trending topic and ask them for feedback about your brand to increase user engagement. Host a contest and giveaways and encourage your audience to post a story that tags your Instagram account or includes branded hashtags.

#4: Go Live On Instagram

Instagram live is one of the most powerful features that allow brands to connect with their audience in real-time. The cool thing about Instagram live is that it notifies your audience when you go live on the platform. Additionally, many top brands are using the live feature to discuss important things about their brands, take interviews, and attend brand events. 

As a small business, going live once a week is essential to build trust and a great relationship with your target audience. Plus, ask some questions about your brand and encourage your audience to reply in real-time. 

Final Thoughts

Instagram is a powerful marketplace for brands and businesses to expand their reach, grow their audience, build strong relationships, and get attention from a wider audience. As a small business, determine your objective and create high-quality content to reach your business goals and get more exposure. Use the above tips and tactics to build a winning Instagram marketing strategy on the platform.