It's not the same...

This account has 4500 Facebook followers and only 300 Instagram followers.  But look at the demographics.  The Instagram followers represent a MUCH younger target audience.  Where is the future for this business?  Probably not with the 65+ audience...

So How Do You Grow Your Instagram Followers (without paying for ads...)

Start by recognizing that FB and IG are two different platforms, and the content you post should be different for each platform.

If you've been posting the same image and text copy for both Facebook and Instagram (because it is easy, and because you can), STOP IT!  Think about the platform and create posts that are specific to each.

I could create a whole class around the differences of each platform and how to write posts specific for each platform, but this tip is about growing your Instagram audience, so I'll stick with that topic for now.

30 WAYS TO ORGANICALLY GROW YOUR INSTAGRAM FOLLOWING

1. Use a social media calendar to plan posts ahead of time.

2.  Schedule your posts in advance (according to your calendar).

3. Download and Instagram for Business kit with templates and FAQs. It's FREE.  https://business.instagram.com/getting-started
   

4. Make sure your account is a business profile.

5. Customize your Instagram for Business profile.

6. Assign someone to create content for you (doesn't have to be you!).

7. Learn best practices for editing and imagery for Instagram.

8. Follow a regular posting schedule (according to your calendar).

9. Allow outside contributors to curate content for you.

10. Use a consistent brand voice.

11. Write engaging, shareable text.

12. Optimize posts with relevant hashtags.

13. Use trending content formats.

14. Post content your followers want to see (use data analysis to drive posting decisions).

15. Promote your Instagram account on other platforms, your website, and email.

16. Engage with your users through follows, likes, and comments.

17. Cross-promote with business partners.

18. Run contests to encourage engagement.

19. Use Instagram Stories' interactive features.

20. Use Instagram Live.

21. Post user-generated content/images.

22. Share your profile link on your website and other social media platforms (this is different than #15, above)

23. Consider your customer avatars and create content for a diverse audience.

24. Apply for a verification badge (this is important to some followers).

25. Create your own filters and badges.

26. Tag relevant users.

27. Post content that is meant to be re-shared.

28. Get on the Instagram Explore page.

29. Share educational content with Instagram slides.

30. Host an Instagram account takeover.

If That's TOO MUCH...

If you're not ready for the full list, start with the first six.  Then add the next six, and you're in business!  Don't forget to keep track of your account information so you can track your progress.

More To Come...

If improving your IG following is one of your social media goals, then you'll be excited to learn that I will be developing out many of the topics listed above in future Tipsy Tuesday posts.  Stay tuned.

Did you notice that your Tipsy Tuesday email arrived at a different time today?  I'm doing a little A/B testing to see if the timing of the email changes the open and click through rate.  Data drives my email and social media marketing alike...  I'll let you know what I find out.

Join our Social Media Facebook Group

Did you find this tip helpful?  Join our Social Media Facebook Group to stay up to date on social media trends and helpful hints.

Looking to refine and grow your Facebook page?  I offer two coaching groups to assist you in extending your business model through social media.  Facebook Beginners Bootcamp for those who are new to Facebook, and Facebook Success Formula for those who are ready grow their online business with strategic posting strategies and schedules.