How to Market on Instagram for Small Businesses

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As of January 2021, Instagram is ranked as the 5th most used social media channel used by people worldwide. It comes in under Facebook, YouTube, WhatsApp, and FB Messenger.

Due to the popularity of Instagram and its potential, now is a great time for small business owners to harness its power.

However, if you want to market on Instagram for the first time, you may wonder how to get started. Keep reading for some tips that will help you generate ads and revenue through this popular social media platform.

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Create a Business Account

Avoid trying to use your personal Instagram account for marketing purposes. With a business account, you have access to features that aren’t available through your personal account.

These features include things like:

  • Instagram ads

  • Primary and secondary inboxes for messaging

  • Instagram insights

  • CTA button and contact information on profile

  • Instagram shopping

If you only have a personal account, make a business account before you start marketing efforts.

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Create Product Teasers

Product teasers are a great way to sell more on Instagram. The key is not to seem too pushy or eager.

A product teaser post is an excellent way to discuss your product and increase excitement without looking like you are trying too hard.

These types of laid-back ads work. They tease your audience with a product image and potential discount, which may be enough of a push to get them to take action.

Focus on Engagement 

It's important to remember that social media platforms, like Instagram, are all about being social. Those who use these sites don't want to be sold to 24/7. 

Make sure you are taking the time to create posts that focus on engagement. This may include asking questions, posting polls or quizzes, or even hosting a contest. 

The more you talk to and engage with your audience, the more likely they will be to make a purchase from you in the future.  

Take Advantage of Instagram Stories

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To generate leads, Instagram Stories is a smart option.

This is unique from typical posts because they are posted in a “slideshow” format.

Stories are only seen for 24 hours; however, they can be saved to your “Highlights” section on your profile for your audience to view, or saved on a user’s device and reused down the road. Also, using Stories is completely free, making it even more appealing for businesses with a small budget.

Are You Ready to Market on Instagram?

If you want to market on Instagram, you will find the information above provides you with a great starting point. However, you will need to adjust your efforts as you learn what does and does not work.

Taking time to learn more about Instagram and your audience is two of the best ways to master your marketing efforts. It will also help ensure the money you spend is worth it.

If you need help building an Instagram marketing strategy, our team can help. We are digital marketing professionals and will help ensure you get the results desired for your business. Contact us today to learn more about the services we offer.

Chelsea Airola

Chelsea Airola is a VA and Project Manager for COASTR Marketing. She joins us from Southern California, where she owns her own virtual assistant company. Specializing in content marketing and social media, Chelsea uses her knowledge to help entrepreneurs build a cohesive marketing strategy to grow their businesses!

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