Let’s face it, there are more social media networks than a business can even fathom keeping up with unless they hire someone to manage the profiles for them a regular basis. From Facebook and Twitter to Pinterest and Google+, there are a plethora of “essential” social media platforms that can be utilized to enhance business marketing efforts. 
Instagram is one of those “newer” platforms that is starting to gain a lot of attention. Is this platform ideal for your business? If so, what are some of the best practices?
Is Instagram Right for Your Business Marketing Efforts?
There is no doubt that Instagram is quickly catching up to other social media platforms in terms of the number of active monthly members, which currents sits around 200,000. Approximately 90% of users are under the age of 35, making it a great platform for those looking to specifically target Millennials. Like it or not, the current generation will be your future customers. Like it or not, it’s better to hit them now with your brand and your message, instead of waiting.
With that being said, not every social media platform – Instagram included – is conducive to every business. Instead, you should evaluate your time and other resources and determine if this platform should be included in your business marketing strategy or not.
At the end of the day, the following is true about Instagram:
- Centers around photo sharing
- 90% of users are under 35
- 68% of users are female
- Has over 200,000 active monthly members
If you can utilize images to help promote your brand and your target market is on Instagram, then it may very well be time to consider utilizing this platform to help spread your message.
Instagram Best Practices
If you have decided to start using Instagram for your business, then it is important to follow best practices in order to get the desired results. Below are some recommendations for businesses using this platform for business marketing.
- Remain true to your brand (post relevant images)
- Be creative (no studio photography)
- Include people
- Tell stories with images
- Engage your followers (comment, follow, share)
- Remain consist with post frequency (ideally once or twice per day)
- Use hashtags
- Track analytics (do more of what works, less of what doesn’t)
In short, Instagram is like any other social media platform – what works depends on your business, your target audience, and your ability to engage your followers on a consistent basis. If you choose to integrate this platform into your business marketing plan, remember it is simply a tool and should supplement your other marketing efforts.
Contact Uptick Marketing today to learn how we can help you grow your business.
