How to grow organically on Instagram

Instagram today is much different from what it was three years ago. Organic growth is on the decline, which means you need to find other ways to expand your reach and engage with your audience. writes social media expert Amani Youssef.

One way to do this is to really get social by following accounts relevant to your business and leaving comments to help your brand or business be seen and found.

How to find relevant Instagram accounts

-Start by identifying accounts within your niche or industry that align with your brand. Following these accounts will not only provide you with inspiration but also expose your profile to their followers who share similar interests.

– Look at other brands (not competitors) with similar target audiences and demographics and engage with accounts that follow them.

– Engage with Followers: Once you start following accounts, make sure to engage with their content by liking and commenting. This will help build a connection and increase the chances of them reciprocating by following you back.

– Use Instagram’s Explore Feature: Explore the Discover page on Instagram to discover new accounts and engage with their content. This will expand your network and attract potential followers who are interested in your content.

Tips on commenting from your business account

– Be Genuine: When leaving comments on other users’ posts, always take the time to craft thoughtful and genuine responses. Avoid generic comments like “Nice pic!” Instead, try to add value to the conversation by sharing your thoughts, asking questions, or complimenting specific aspects of the post.

– Engage with the Community: Participate in discussions within your niche by commenting on posts from influential accounts and engaging with their followers. This will help you establish yourself as an active member of the community and attract attention from potential followers.

– Respond to Comments on Your Own Posts: Don’t forget to respond to comments on your own posts. Engaging with your followers shows that you appreciate their support and encourages them to continue interacting with your content.

When it comes to organic growth strategies, especially this one, consistency is key. Regularly engage with other accounts and post high-quality content on your own profile. Consistency helps build trust and keeps your audience engaged. Be authentic in the way that you engage with accounts; authenticity is crucial on Instagram. Stay true to your brand’s voice and values, and create content that resonates with your target audience. Building an authentic connection with your followers will lead to long-term growth and engagement.

I’ve got a final three tips for you to follow to help with your organic growth, different to the above-mentioned strategies:

1. Optimise your profile: Make sure your Instagram profile is complete and engaging. Use a clear profile picture, write a direct bio, and include a link to your website. This will make it easier for potential followers to understand who you are and what you offer.
2. Use relevant hashtags: Research and use relevant hashtags in your posts to increase your discoverability. Hashtags allow users who are interested in specific topics to find your content. Use a mix of popular, niche and local hashtags to reach a wider audience.
3. Collaborate with others: Collaborate with influencers or other accounts in your niche to reach a wider audience. This can include guest posting, cross-promotions, or giveaways. By partnering with accounts that share a similar target audience, you can expose your brand to new followers who are likely to be interested in your content.

Growing your Instagram account organically requires time, effort, and a strategic approach. By following relevant accounts and engaging with their content through comments, you can increase your visibility, attract new followers, and build a loyal community. Remember, organic growth is about building genuine connections and providing value to your audience.

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