Social media extends far past Facebook and Twitter, and if you want your brand to be a success, you need to be using all platforms effectively for your business. In this case, we're talking about Instagram. Primarily a photo-sharing app, it's become a popular choice for social interaction through pictures, videos, messages and comments. Networking on Instagram You can't see this as a one-way platform for you to share with an audience. Like with any other social media format, you need to be out there interacting with people for it to be truly effective. Build relationships by leaving comments, replying to messages and comments directed to you, liking other photos and following other people. Adding in hashtags (#YourHashTagHere) is another key to proper networking, to connect your posts to larger conversations and searches within your field. There are marketing tools to help you monitor hashtag usage and popularity so you can tag your posts properly. And don't just focus on potential customers with your networking. Even competitors should get some attention. Someone following another business may see your comments or likes, and come to discover what you're offering too. For Instagram Try Engaging, Not Selling Of course, the ultimate purpose of any social media use for business is to gain customers, clients and sales. But if that is your only focus, you will quickly have a shrinking audience that loses interest in your posts. A feed that is nothing but product shots, sale notices or customer testimonials is not going to be all that interesting for anyone to follow on a regular basis. Add in photos from news stories that are related to your field, share funny stories, and even add your own personal photos on occasion. This gives your feed a personality of its own, and makes it more interesting to your viewers. You can also hook people's attention with contests, discount codes and other little rewards for being part of your Instagram following. Make Instagram Marketing Part of a Larger Plan Don't consider your Instagram account to be a stand-alone portion of your overall social media plan. Use this to connect with other accounts, and fill your profile with links and references to your website, Facebook or Twitter account and anything else that will keep you connected with your audience. When you post a new photo on Instagram, why not share it on Facebook too or tweet about it? By interlinking your social presence, you cast a wider net to catch someone's attention. It also keeps your various account active without necessarily having to post unique and new material each time. As you post from site to site, keep your branding consistent by using the same tone and attitude. Have a couple of unique hashtags that you always use (if possible) so that people can find you and your posts no matter where they are. You can also get great ideas on how to better use Instagram for your business from Instagram itself. They have a blog running with all kinds of information, tools and tips specifically for business on Instagram. Would you like additional assistance with your Social Media Marketing? We would LOVE to help! Please dial us (866) 764-2877 ext 2.