Do you want to make your business stand out on Instagram? Whether you’re an Instagram rookie or have mastered the basics, you probably want to figure out how can you use Instagram to kick things up a bit and boost your sales. With over 1.440 billion users, Instagram can generate business growth when utilized the right way. Take a look at these four techniques that can help you find great success on this social powerhouse.
CREATE BRAND AMBASSADORS
Not only should you post images– both of your own and customer-sourced — on Instagram, you should also utilize ambassadors to help promote your products to your ideal market. One great example of a business that is thriving due to the help of brand ambassadors is Love Your Melon. The company has ambassadors of around 20 students on various campuses throughout the United States. These individuals all have their own Instagram channels, and Instagram accounts that are all pushing single messages. The company, which donates a large percentage of its proceeds to pediatric research, is expected to double its revenue this year.
Remember to revisit and consider where you spend your money as a small business owner. It’s wise to invest in areas such as brand ambassadors that can boost your sales. Just like you’d look into things like a title loan buyout to save money on a car payment, you should also renegotiate contracts and other ways to save costs for your small business while investing in the areas that will pay off over time.
LISTEN
Actively listen so you know what your customers want. You can use Instagram as a place to offer special discounts for your Instagram followers only. Listen to what your followers want and need to set yourself apart from other businesses. Based on what your followers say, you just may create a new branch of your business. Do more than simply use Instagram as a channel to promote your existing business, but as a source of inspiration for future ones too.
A great way to hear your customers’ wishes is with the help of customer survey mistakes. There are customer survey mistakes to avoid if you want to maximize this tool and get the most accurate feedback on customer service, products, and delivery.
SHARE VIDEO
Video is one of today’s most used marketing methods. Research predicts that 75 percent of all data will be video by 2020. While shareable images that attract people’s attention are still key to success, the smartest marketers are mixing plenty of videos into their Instagram feeds.
Strapped for cash? Use options like Boomerang, Stories, and Hyperlapse to create video content that looks professional. One thing to keep in mind is that many people aren’t able to consume sound via mobile, so make sure your video is engaging without sound too.
SHARE CONSISTENT, PERSONAL STORIES
People want to know more about your business than just the products or services you offer. Feel free to share your story. Customers want to know who you are, what you believe in, what you’re passionate about, and what makes you stand apart from others.
Keep that in mind, but don’t just share anything that comes to mind. Have a consistent and clear virtual message that tells the same story time and again. If your story wavers, others will fail to understand what you’re trying to convey. Be thoughtful about what you share and reinforce who you are consistently. Highlight the three to five most important aspects of your business and what it’s all about.
The power of Instagram is no secret — this tool can help your business prosper when utilized correctly. Make it a point to fine-tune your Instagram marketing skills, posting images and videos people will want to share. Be clear about your brand and create content your customers love and watch your business growth escalate.
