instagram marketing hacks

10 Best Instagram Marketing Hacks to Increase Engagement & Views

Welcome, fellow social media enthusiasts and pixel-pushing wizards! Are you looking to give your Instagram game a serious push? Well, consider yourself lucky because we’ve got the 15 Instagram marketing strategies that will have your followers double tapping, commenting & sharing your content like never before.
2,744 Views

Table of Contents

What is Instagram Marketing?

Ah, Instagram marketing – the not-so-secret weapon in a business’s arsenal. It’s like the cool kid in high school that everyone wants to hang out with, and for good reason. 

The Instagram marketing world is a place where the game is always on and the followers are always hungry for more. With more than a billion active users, Instagram is the ideal platform for businesses to advertise their goods and services and engage with their audience in a fun way. Instagram marketing hacks will help you boost your business to next level.

Creating and sharing content that makes your followers stop scrolling and pay attention is the key to successful Instagram marketing. And if that’s not enough, you can always spice things up with Instagram’s advertising options to grab people’s attention.

But WAIT. Don’t just go in guns blazing!!!

A comprehensive Instagram marketing strategy that aligns with your business goals, target audience, and brand image is essential. That means creating a content calendar, using hashtags to boost visibility, and collaborating with influencers will do the business for you.

So, grab your camera and snap some shots that will have your followers drooling. It’s time to take your Instagram marketing game to the next level and give your competitors something to envy.

Why should I do Instagram Marketing?

Let’s talk about why Instagram marketing is the bee’s knees for businesses. First off, Instagram is basically a giant party that never ends and you’re the host with the most. With flooding active users, there’s no shortage of people to impress with your marketing prowess.

And let’s be real – who doesn’t want to be noticed?

But Instagram is not just about getting noticed and showing your fancy products or services. Instagram marketing is crucial so instagram marketing strategies can be useful for gaining a devoted following and connecting with your audience in an authentic and genuine way.

It’s like having a conversation with your bestie over a cup of coffee but on a global scale.

With Instagram constantly evolving there is always something for creators to catch up. And let’s not forget about the algorithm changes that can make or break your reach and engagement. But hey, that’s all part of the fun, right? 

So if you’re not on the Instagram marketing person yet, it’s time to jump on board. Your business will thank you, your followers will thank you, and who knows – maybe even Instagram itself will thank you with a fancy blue checkmark.

Benefits of Using Instagram for Marketing

So you are wondering what are the benefits of Instagram marketing – where do I begin? Let’s dive in and explore this exciting world.

Sizable and Engaged User Base:

First off, Instagram has a massive user base that’s always buzzing with activity. It’s like a digital hive, with over a billion active users just waiting to discover your brand and engage with your content.

Visual Characteristics of the Platform:

Instagram’s visual nature is what really sets it apart from other platforms. It’s like a virtual art gallery where you can showcase your products and services in a way that’s visually stunning and captivating.

Capacity to Target Specific Audiences:

Instagram’s ability to target specific audiences is a game-changer for businesses. It’s like having a superpower where you can hone in on your ideal customers and connect with them on a personal level. 

Authentic Branding Opportunity

The potential for genuine branding is arguably Instagram marketing’s best feature. It resembles a dialogue with your fans in which you may show off your character and principles in a way that feels sincere and true. 

Instagram is like a virtual wonderland, with endless possibilities for creativity and growth. So put on your thinking caps and start strategizing – the Instagram world is waiting for you.

15 Effective Instagram Marketing Strategies That Actually Work 

#1 Optimize your Instagram Profile

(i) Use a Clear Profile Picture

To begin with make sure your profile picture is eye-catching & clear. It is the first thing people notice when first see your profile, so you want to make sure that you make the best impression!

May it be a selfie or a professional headshot or a super fun illustration, just make sure you accurately represent you & your brand.

Examples Digital Marketing Experts profile picture:

Sorav Jain Instagram Profile Photo
Rishi Jain Instagram Profile Photo
Neil Patel Instagram Profile Photo

(ii) Write a Compelling Bio with Relevant Keywords

Your Instagram bio is as important as your profile picture. Instagram bio is a another chance to tell people who you are & what you are all about.

Use keywords relevant to your profile. Maybe you’re a freelance writer, a dog lover, or a world traveler – let people know! And don’t forget to inject a little personality into your bio – it’s what makes you unique.

Also Read: What to add in Instagram Bio

Example:

Digital Scholar Instagram Bio
Sorav Jain Instagram Bio

Lastly include any links associated with you & your brand which includes your website or landing page links. This is definitely a great way to drive traffic to your site and potentially increase sales or conversions. Make sure the link is obvious and clickable when marketing a blog, business, or product.

#2 Use High-Quality Images and Videos

(i) Use a Consistent Visual Style

Use high-quality images and videos. Blurry, pixelated photos are a big no-no. Invest in a good camera or use your smartphone to capture sharp, clear images that showcase your personality or brand.

Instagram Marketing Hacks - Consistent visual style

(ii) Experiment with Different Formats 

Consider using a consistent visual style. This could mean sticking to a specific color palette, using the same filters, or even incorporating similar props or settings in your photos. This helps create a cohesive look and feel that’s instantly recognizable to your followers.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different formats, either! Carousels, video posts, and even IGTV can all help you mix things up and keep your audience engaged. Try creating a series of posts that tell a story or showcase a product from different angles – the possibilities are endless!

(iii) Use Instagram’s Built-in Editing Tools

And last but not least, take advantage of Instagram’s built-in editing tools. This is one of the most used instagram marketing strategies. From adjusting brightness and contrast to adding filters and stickers, these tools can help you take your photos to the next level. And the best part? You don’t need to be a professional photographer to use them!

#3 Use Relevant Hashtags

Alright, let’s talk hashtags. They’re like little anchors that help your content stay afloat in the sea of social media. But just like any sailor knows, you’ve got to choose your anchors wisely.

Research and use popular and niche hashtags that relate to your content. This will help you reach a wider audience and attract people who are actually interested in what you have to say.

(ii) Create Your Own Branded Hashtag

It’s time to get creative and make your own branded hashtag. This is like creating your very own lighthouse, guiding people straight to your content. Plus, it adds a little personality to your brand and shows that you’re a trendsetter.

Example:

#soravjain #digitalscholar #neilpatel

(iii) Don’t Overdo it with Hashtags

But hold up, before you go hashtag crazy, remember that less is sometimes more. Don’t overdo it with hashtags. It can make your posts look spammy and unprofessional. Keep it simple and stick to a few relevant hashtags that pack a punch.

#4 Engage with Your Followers

(i) Respond to Comments and DMs

Engaging with your followers on Instagram involves responding to their comments and direct messages (DMs). This shows your followers that you value their input and are invested in building a relationship with them. Make sure to respond to comments and DMs in a timely manner and address any questions or concerns they may have.

(ii) Like and Comment on Your Followers’ Posts 

Another way to engage with your followers is to like and comment on their posts. This can help build a sense of community and foster a stronger relationship between you and your followers. When commenting on your followers’ posts, make sure to be genuine and authentic – avoid generic comments or spammy behavior.

(iii) Ask for Feedback and Opinions

Asking for feedback and opinions is a great way to engage with your followers and show them that you value their input. Consider asking for feedback on a new product or service, or asking for their opinion on a current industry trend. You can also use Instagram’s polls and question features to solicit feedback and opinions from your followers.

#5 Post Consistently

(i) Develop a Content Calendar 

One of the keys to posting consistently on Instagram is to develop a content calendar. This involves planning out your content in advance, so you know what you’ll be posting each day or week. Your content calendar should include a mix of different types of content (e.g. photos, videos, graphics) and should align with your overall brand and marketing strategy.

(ii) Stick to a Posting Schedule

Once you have a content calendar in place, it’s important to stick to a consistent posting schedule. This means posting at the same time(s) and day(s) each week, so your audience knows when to expect new content from you. Consistency is key when it comes to building an engaged audience on Instagram, so make sure you’re posting regularly and at predictable intervals.

(iii) Experiment with Different Posting Times

While it’s important to stick to a consistent posting schedule, it’s also worth experimenting with different posting times to see what works best for your audience. Try posting at different times of day and on different days of the week to see when you get the most engagement and reach. You may find that certain times or days work better than others, depending on your audience demographics and time zones.

#6 Utilize Instagram Stories

(i) Use Stickers, Polls, and Questions to Increase Engagement

Instagram Stories is one of the most result-driven instgaram marketing strategies that offers a variety of interactive features that can help increase engagement with your audience. Consider using stickers, polls, and questions to encourage your followers to interact with your content.

Also Read: Top 10 Instagram Story Downloader tools

For example, you could ask your followers to vote on a product design, or use a question sticker to solicit feedback or suggestions from your audience.

Instagram Marketing Strategy Stories
Instagram Marketing Strategy Stories

(ii) Use Highlights to Showcase Your Best Stories

Instagram Highlights is one of the great instagram marketing hacks to showcase your best and most important stories. You can create Highlights based on themes, such as products, events, or behind-the-scenes content. By curating your best stories into Highlights, you can make it easier for your followers to find and engage with your most important content.

Instagram Highlights

(iii) Create Behind-the-Scenes Content

Instagram Stories is a great platform for creating behind-the-scenes content that gives your followers a glimpse into your brand or business. Consider showcasing your creative process, giving a tour of your workspace or production facility, or highlighting your team members. By sharing behind-the-scenes content, you can help humanize your brand and build a stronger connection with your audience.

#7 Host Instagram Contests and Giveaways

(i) Follow Instagram’s Guidelines for Promotions 

When hosting an Instagram contest or giveaway, it’s important to follow Instagram’s guidelines for promotions. These guidelines include rules around disclosure, eligibility, and content restrictions. Be sure to review these guidelines carefully and ensure that your promotion complies with them to avoid any issues.

(ii) Partner with Other Brands or Influencers

To expand the reach of your Instagram contest or giveaway is one of the most proven instagram marketing strategies, consider partnering with other brands or influencers in your niche. This can help increase your visibility and attract a wider audience to your promotion. Be sure to choose partners who align with your brand values and target audience to ensure that the partnership is effective.

(iii) Use a Clear Call-to-Action (CTA) to Enter the Contest or Giveaway

To encourage participation in your Instagram contest or giveaway, it’s important to use a clear call-to-action (CTA) in your promotional materials. This could include asking followers to tag a friend, use a specific hashtag, or follow your account to enter the contest or giveaway. Make sure that the entry process is simple and straightforward to encourage maximum participation.

#8 Collaborate with Other Instagram Users

(i) Reach Out to Other Brands or Influencers in Your Niche 

Collaborating with other Instagram users is one of the best instagram marketing hacks in your niche is a great way to expand your reach and attract new followers. Consider reaching out to brands or influencers that share your values or target audience and proposing a collaboration. This could include creating co-branded content or campaigns, hosting joint events or giveaways, or simply promoting each other’s accounts.

(ii) Create Co-Branded Content or Campaigns

One way to collaborate with other Instagram users is to create co-branded content or campaigns. This could include creating a joint product or service, developing a shared marketing campaign, or simply featuring each other’s products or services in your content. By working together, you can tap into each other’s audiences and create content. This is one of the most important instagram marketing strategies that is more engaging and compelling than what you could create on your own.

(iii) Cross-promote Each Other’s Accounts 

This is among the other instagram marketing hacks that has proven to be effective way. Collaborating with other Instagram users is to cross-promote each other’s accounts. This could include tagging each other in your posts, featuring each other in your Instagram Stories, or sharing each other’s content with your own followers. By cross-promoting each other’s accounts, you can increase your exposure and reach new audiences that may be interested in your brand or products.

#9 Leverage User-Generated Content

(i) Encourage Your Followers to Share their Own Content Featuring Your Brand

One of the best ways to leverage user-generated content (UGC) is by encouraging your followers to share their own content featuring your brand. This could include photos, videos, or even written reviews. You can encourage UGC by running a contest or giveaway that requires users to share their own content, or by simply asking your followers to share their experiences with your brand.

(ii) Repost User-Generated Content (UGC) with Permission

Once you have UGC from your followers, it’s important to get their permission before reposting it on your own Instagram account. This can be done by reaching out to the user directly and asking for their permission, or by including a disclaimer in your contest or giveaway that grants you permission to repost any content submitted as part of the promotion.

(iii) Use UGC in your Instagram ads 

Another great way to leverage user-generated content is by using it in your Instagram ads. UGC can be especially effective in ads because it provides social proof and validation for your brand. For example, you could use customer reviews or testimonials in your ad copy, or feature UGC in the visual elements of your ad.

#10 Use Instagram Ads

(i) Set Clear Objectives and Target Audience

Before creating an Instagram ad, it’s important to set clear objectives for what you hope to achieve with the ad. This could include increasing brand awareness, driving website traffic, or boosting sales. It’s also important to define your target audience for the ad, including factors such as age, gender, location, interests, and behaviors. By targeting your ads to a specific audience and setting clear objectives, you can create ads that are more effective and drive better results.

(ii) Use Eye-Catching Visuals and Clear Messaging

One of the keys to creating a successful Instagram ad is using eye-catching visuals and clear messaging. Instagram is a highly visual platform, so it’s important to use high-quality images or videos that grab your audience’s attention and convey your message effectively.

It’s also important to use clear, concise messaging that clearly communicates the value proposition of your product or service. By using compelling visuals and messaging, you can increase the likelihood that your audience will engage with your ad and take action.

(iii) Monitor and Adjust Your Ads Regularly 

One of the important instagram marketing strategies is to monitor its ads performance regularly and make adjustments as needed. This could include adjusting your targeting criteria, changing the ad creative, or tweaking the messaging. By monitoring your ad performance and making adjustments, you can improve the effectiveness of your ads over time and drive better results for your business.

#11 Utilize Instagram Reels

(i) Create Short-Form, Entertaining Videos

Instagram Reels is a feature that allows you to create short-form videos that are typically 15 to 30 seconds long. To make the most of this feature, it’s important to create content that is entertaining, engaging, and easy to consume. Consider using humor, storytelling, or visual effects to grab your audience’s attention and keep them engaged.

One of the key instagram marketing startegies is to use Instagram Reels is the ability to add music and popular sounds to your videos. This can help enhance the mood or tone of your content and make it more appealing to your audience. Consider using popular songs or sounds that are relevant to your niche or audience, or create your own sounds or music to make your content stand out.

(ii) Experiment with Different Types of Content 

To keep your audience engaged and interested, it’s important to experiment with different types of content on Instagram Reels. This could include tutorials or how-to videos that demonstrate a skill or process, challenges that encourage user participation and engagement, or behind-the-scenes looks at your brand or products. By testing out different types of content, you can get a better sense of what resonates with your audience and tailor your content accordingly.

#12 Analyze Your Instagram Metrics

(i) Use Instagram Insights to Track Engagement and Reach

Instagram Insights is a free analytics tool that provides valuable information about your followers and how they interact with your content. You can use Insights to track engagement metrics such as likes, comments, and shares, as well as reach metrics such as impressions and reach. By monitoring these metrics, you can get a better understanding of which types of content resonate with your audience and adjust your strategy accordingly.

(ii) Monitor Follower Growth and Demographics

Another key aspect of analyzing your Instagram metrics is monitoring your follower growth and demographics. Insights provide information about your followers’ age, gender, location, and more, which can help you understand who your audience is and how to better tailor your content to their interests. By tracking your follower growth over time, you can also get a sense of how effective your content strategy is at attracting and retaining new followers.

Instagram Progress

(iii) Use Data to Inform Your Content Strategy

Once you have a good understanding of your Instagram metrics, it’s important to use that data to inform your content strategy. For example, if you notice that your followers engage more with video content than with photos, you may want to prioritize video content in your posting schedule. By using data to inform your content strategy, you can increase your chances of reaching and engaging with your target audience.

#13 Offer Exclusive Discounts or Promotions

(i) Use Instagram to Promote Exclusive Deals or Limited-Time Offers

One effective way to drive sales and engagement on Instagram is by offering exclusive discounts or promotions. This could include a discount code for a specific product or service, a buy-one-get-one-free offer, or a limited-time sale. Make sure your promotion is clear and easy to understand, and use eye-catching graphics or videos to promote it on your Instagram feed and stories.

(ii) Use a Clear CTA and Track Results 

To ensure that your exclusive deals or promotions are effective, use a clear call-to-action (CTA) that prompts your followers to take action. This could be as simple as “Shop Now” or “Get Your Discount Code”. Also, be sure to track the results of your promotions so you can see how effective they are at driving traffic and sales. Use Instagram Insights or other analytics tools to track metrics such as clicks, conversions, and revenue.

(iii) Partner with Influencers or Other Brands to Expand the Reach

Another way to amplify the reach of your exclusive deals or promotions is by partnering with influencers or other brands. By collaborating with influencers who share your brand values and target audience, you can tap into their existing audience and expand your reach.

You can also consider partnering with other brands that complement your own, which can help attract new customers who are interested in related products or services. Just make sure that any partnerships align with your brand values and are a good fit for your target audience.

#14 Use Influencer Marketing

(i) Partner with Influencers who Align With Your Brand Values 

When selecting influencers to work with, it’s important to consider more than just their follower count. Look for influencers who share your brand’s values, aesthetics, and target audience. By partnering with influencers who have an established relationship with your ideal customers, you can tap into their trust and credibility to amplify your brand’s message.

(ii) Set Clear Objectives and Expectations

Before you begin any influencer campaign, make sure you have a clear idea of what you want to achieve. Are you trying to drive sales, increase brand awareness, or build engagement? Once you’ve established your goals, communicate them clearly to your influencer partners. Be specific about what you expect from them in terms of content, posting frequency, and any other deliverables. This will help ensure that everyone is on the same page and working towards the same objectives.

One of the biggest advantages of influencer marketing is the ability to track your ROI. To do this, it’s important to use a unique promo code or trackable link that is exclusive to each influencer. This will allow you to see which influencers are driving the most traffic, engagement, and sales, and adjust your strategy accordingly. It will also help you determine which influencers are worth working with again.

#15 Utilize Instagram Shopping

(i) Set up an Instagram Shop to Showcase Your Products

Are you ready to set sail on the high seas of e-commerce? Then it’s time to drop anchor and start utilizing Instagram Shopping. This feature allows you to showcase your products on your very own Instagram Shop. It’s like having your own digital storefront right on the app!

(ii) Use Shoppable Posts and Stickers to Make it Easy for Followers to Purchase

With shoppable posts and stickers, you can make it super easy for your followers to purchase your products with just a few clicks.

(iii) Monitor Sales and Adjust your Strategy Accordingly

You can monitor your sales and adjust your strategy accordingly. It’s like having your own personal compass that helps you navigate the ever-changing waters of social media. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different products, pricing, and promotion strategies to see what works best for your brand.

Also Read: 10 Key Instagram Statistics you Need to Track

Common Instagram Marketing Mistakes to Avoid

Alright, buckle up, and let’s talk about some Instagram marketing mistakes that are so cringe-worthy that will make you want to facepalm.🤦‍♀️

1. Emphasising Followers rather than Engagement

Focusing too much on your follower count instead of engagement. It’s like buying a fancy car to impress your neighbors but forgetting to fill it with gas so you can actually drive it. You want quality engagement, not just a big number on your profile. 

2. Using Analytics for Performance Tracking 

Not using analytics to track your performance. It’s like cooking a meal blindfolded and hoping it turns out well. Use those analytics to see what’s working and what’s not, so you can fine-tune your strategy and cook up some delicious content. 

3. Optimizing your Profile for Conversations 

Not optimizing your profile for conversions is like wearing a suit to a pool party – it’s just not the right fit. Make sure your profile is set up to convert visitors into customers, with clear calls to action and easy ways to buy your products or services. 

4. Using Excessive or Irrelevant Hashtags

Using irrelevant ones or overusing them is like wearing a tutu to a football game – it’s just not going to make sense. Do your research and use relevant hashtags that will help you reach your target audience, without going overboard. 

5. Posting Quality Content Consistently

Posting low-quality or inconsistent content is like showing up to a fancy gala in sweatpants – it’s just not the look you’re going for. Make sure your content is high-quality, visually appealing, and consistent with your brand image. 

6. Using Other Features of Instagram 

Don’t even think about ignoring the power of Instagram Stories and other features. It’s like having a party without music – it’s just not as fun. Use those features to engage with your audience and showcase your brand in new and exciting ways. 

7. Utilizing Influencer Marketing or User-Generated Content

Not utilizing influencer marketing or user-generated content is like trying to climb a mountain with one hand tied behind your back – it’s going to be a lot harder than it needs to be. Work with influencers and encourage user-generated content to reach new audiences and build trust with your followers. 

8. Leveraging Instagram Shopping

Not leveraging Instagram Shopping to sell products directly on the platform is like leaving money on the table. It’s like having a lemonade stand with no lemonade – you’re missing out on a huge opportunity to make sales and grow your business.

How do I get insane growth on Instagram?

Are you looking to take your Instagram game to the next level? Joining the Influencer Club could be the proven shortcut you’ve been searching for. 

Join the Instagram Influencers Club

Hosted by Digital Scholar and led by Sorav Jain, a renowned Instagram influencer and the founder of echoVME and Digital Scholar, this exclusive club offers an incredible opportunity for growth. 

Through live courses, interactive Q&A sessions, community meetups, and much more, you’ll gain invaluable insights and strategies to boost your presence on Instagram. 

Don’t miss out on the chance to connect with like-minded individuals, learn from industry experts, and propel your Instagram growth to new heights. Join the Influencer Club today and unlock your true potential on the world’s most influential social media platform.

You can also check out Digital Scholar’s Reels Mastery course to ace up your Instagram profile by making some really cool reels.

Conclusion

Having a strong Instagram marketing strategy can help businesses increase brand awareness, drive engagement, and ultimately increase sales. 

By understanding their target audience, utilizing features like Instagram Shopping, Reels, and influencers, analyzing metrics, offering exclusive discounts, and posting consistently, businesses can create an effective Instagram marketing strategy that resonates with their audience and drives real results.

These Instagram Strategies are tried and true, and they work so effectively you might even start to feel guilty for making your competitors look bad. So, grab your phone, get comfortable, and let’s get ready to take your Instagram game to the next level.

Digital Scholar- favicon

Written By
Digital Scholar

Digital Scholar is a premier agency-styled digital marketing institute in India. Which offers an online digital marketing course and a free digital marketing course worldwide to elevate their digital skills and become industry experts. Digital Scholar is headed by Sorav Jain and co-founder Rishi Jain, who are pioneers in the field of digital marketing. Digital Scholar’s blogs touch upon numerous aspects of digital marketing and help you get intensive ideas of different domains of digital marketing.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Upcoming Offline Batch Details

Course Duration

6 Months

Course Modules

14+ Modules 

Training Mode

Classroom Training

Weekday Batch

Tuesday & Thursday

Timing

6.30 PM  to 9.30 PM

Starts From

25th April, 2024

Course Fee

₹69,999 Incl. Taxes 

Contact Number

+91-9513632705

Upcoming Offline Batch Details

Course Duration

6 Months

Course Modules

14+ Modules 

Training Mode

Classroom Training

Weekday Batch

Tuesday & Thursday

Timing

6.30 PM  to 9.30 PM

Starts From

25th April, 2024

Course Fee

₹69,999 Incl. Taxes 

Contact Number

+91-9513632705

Upcoming Batch Details

Course Duration

4 Months 

Course Modules

14+ Modules

Course Certificates

20+ Certificates

Training Mode

Live Online Classes

Weekend Batch

Saturday & Sunday

Starts From

20th April, 2024

Course Fee

₹59,000 Incl. Taxes (₹4000 Assured Cashback)

Contact Number

+91-9513632705

Upcoming Batch Details

Course Duration

4 Months 

Course Modules

14+ Modules

Course Certificates

20+ Certificates

Training Mode

Live Online Classes

Weekend Batch

Saturday & Sunday

Starts From

20th April, 2024

Course Fee

₹59,000 Incl. Taxes (₹4000 Assured Cashback)

Contact Number

+91-9513632705