Up Your Instagram Game

Instagram is my favorite social media hands down! I just love learning about new things through pictures, catching up on the lives of some of my favorite people, and being able to invite readers into my world. Instagram offers a unique perspective and representation of you – it is important to know that and be intentional to let it share your story.

I know a lot of us got Instagram accounts awhile back when it first swept the globe (just like we all downloaded Snapchat and Periscope when they came out to see what the fuss was all about 😉 ) Maybe you haven’t thought about your Instagram since then or maybe you’ve been trying to think about it but don’t really know where to start. Here are five tips to really up your Instagram game in the new year and share your story

CHANGE YOUR PROFILE PICTURE

Your profile photo is one of the first things people will notice when they hop over to your feed! It is also what they will see when you comment or like images on Instagram so you want it to reflect you well! Pick one that fits with your overall style and theme of your Instagram.

Bonus Points: I also highly encourage you to make it the same one across all social media so that you create brand consistency! It helps followers be able to recognize you more across platforms and creates a stronger brand.

CHANGE YOUR BIO

When was the last time you updated your Instagram bio? What does it say about you? What do you want it to say about you? One of the questions that I love to ask is “What do I want people to know/do when they come to my Instagram?”

Things to Consider:

• Let people know your general location (aka Colorado) just in case of collab opportunities!
• Provide a link to your website (because you want them to go there!)
• Add a contact email for collaborations & connections
• Share some little things that make you unique & show your personality. Feel free to use emoticons!

CURATE YOUR FEED

Instead of just slapping up the next picture you have on your phone, organize your feed before it goes to Instagram! I use VSCO to upload all my photos before they head over to Instagram so that I can see if I like the way they look and the overall feel. This is a great place to edit pictures if you want but you don’t have to if you are uploading them from another location (like your computer.) It is also a great way to plan ahead and organize your next several photos!

ADD HASHTAGS & TAG BRANDS

Go back on the most recent posts and add a couple relevant  hashtags to connect with a community. Also make sure that you are tagging brands and people when you post so that those featured in the post make sure to see it! I always tag clothing, gear, and product brands when I post on Instagram and I have been regramed by several of them which has brought new eyes to my Insta! Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be featured or grouped with like accounts because you skipped the tagging & hashtags.

Keep In Mind: Only use relevant hashtags that will help build  your brand and connect you with like minded followers. Excess hashtags are just clutter.

EXPLORE POSTS

Click on over to the magnifying glass and search for some new accounts to follow and friends to meet. Don’t just go over and spam like a bunch of photos  – genuinely interact with some new feeds and follow some new accounts! This is a great way to grow your followers and make new friends!

Bonus Points: Find people who you could potentially collaborate with or who live in the same area as you do! Local connections are so fun! (Think of all the regraming and photo tagging possibilities with these ones!)

What are some of your Instagram Tips? How do you use the social media? What is your favorite thing about Instagram? Make sure you follow me on Insta & come say hello! I would love to meet you! 

Photo by: Stellar Propeller Studios

xoxo, elizabeth