Growing an Instagram account organically is not an easy job. You need to post consistently, use the right hashtags, and optimize the captions, but most importantly, you need to keep up with the ever-changing algorithms.
This means there is no fixed formula or strategy to crack the growth code. If you want to get free IG followers, you must shift your focus from algorithms to people. After all, Instagram algorithms are based on how people react to certain posts and what they demand.
So, the real way to grow your account is to study what affects your audience the most. In today's post, we will discuss five things you are doing wrong (in regard to people) and how to fix them for Instagram growth. Let's get started!
Your Account Isn't Aesthetic Enough.
Instagram is all about visuals. If your pictures aren't of high quality and up to the standards, chances are that people will not follow you.
But this doesn't mean that you should invest in a thousand-dollar DSLR or professional lighting equipment. While all of this can help produce outstanding results, it is not financially wise to spend on something that doesn't generate any money yet.
Instead, focus on making your images clear, sharp, and vibrant. If a picture isn't good enough, use an editing app to improve it. Check out these simple tips for Insta-worthy visuals!
You're Not Unique.
With more than 1 billion users, Instagram is a competitive and saturated marketplace. There are hundreds of accounts present in every niche. So, if you want more followers, you need to level up the game and stand out.
Research your competitors and identify the lacking. Is there something that can make the account more valuable and unique? Note these points and incorporate them into your content creation strategy.
If you can't find anything, just focus on offering maximum value to your audience. Don't post random pictures and videos. Instead, identify in what area you specialize and create high-value content around it.
You're Not Using Hashtags Properly.
Hashtags are mandatory in Instagram posts. These words or phrases help increase your visibility and engagement rates. However, you should know how to use them properly.
For example, crowding your caption with too many hashtags can annoy the reader. While there is a limit of 30 hashtags, it's best to use only 12 to 15 hashtags in each post. Also, you should keep them relevant to the visuals.
If you add #trending and #life on an image of oatmeal, the hashtags will become too generic to bring any reach. Instead, you should add #oatmeal, #healthybreakfast, and similar image-specific tags in the caption.
Moreover, you should never repeat the same hashtags again and again. Prepare a fresh set of mixed hashtags (popular and unpopular) for each post. This will ensure your content reaches the right target audience.
You're Not Socializing.
Since Instagram is a social platform, you can't grow without interaction and communication. You must reply to the comments, follow back accounts, and establish relations. Even if you don't intend to make friends, it's important to socialize positively.
You're Not Focusing on Captions.
It's true that visuals matter more than text on Instagram. But this doesn't mean that you should ignore captions. When used correctly, a caption can:
● Hook a reader and encourage them to interact with the post.
● Convert a reader into a follower.
● Persuade the reader to buy a product or service.
So, you can see how valuable a caption is. For each post, try to write a few paragraphs that entertain the readers or provide information.