В the previous part at "Tips for small businesses online" We told you about the specifics of Instagram. Today, we'll introduce you to a few myths you need to remember if you want to succeed on this particular social network. And to be precise - you should forget them, because they are just a barrier.
Instagram is for visual businesses only
Where does it say that you have to be in the fashion business, e-commerce sector or be in the food industry to be on Instagram? That's right - nowhere. It's not a myth that brands in the areas listed fit naturally on the social network, but almost any business can find a place there. Even if you're not specifically showcasing your products, use Instagram to showcase fun office moments, team building events, occasions. This will show the real faces behind your business and create a sense of closeness with your customers. Well, yes! Everyone is human! The most important thing about content on this social network is that it is engaging and entertaining.
A successful example of a brand that displays the specifics of its industry in a clever way is General Electric. What like being in the manufacture of engines, machinery etc? The number of followers on Instagram is 197 thousand. Impressive, right?
Instagram does not allow brands to have a personal attitude
This myth is an addition to the previous one. As mentioned before, Instagram is a great way to show the human side of your business. Use it to show things "from the kitchen", tips to your users, give them a peek at what you do before the end result. What could be more personal than that! This way you can even provoke them to give you feedback and do a little research about their attitudes.
Suitable only for large companies
The advantage of all social networks is that they help companies grow. You don't have to be an established brand to have a following. Again, a myth because businesses of all sizes can use Instagram for promotion and growth.
Local businesses cannot reap the benefits
If you're a nationwide brand, great, but if you're a small local shop or company, again, use Instagram to announce a new product, to show off a new acquisition important to the production process, or to publicly praise some coworker with his promotion. Instagram delivers news - that's the main thing to keep in mind. And there's news everywhere.
Instagram can only be used in one way
Of course we use it mostly to post our photos, but that's not all. Keep in mind the applications of the social network. For example, by Layout create your collages and diversify the format of your photos. There are several varieties and templates that will not only grab your attention, but we guarantee you will have fun making them yourself. New two weeks ago is also Boomerang - an app that allows us to capture a one-second video. Super! We can show the emotion not only in a photo, but also with a video. Another thing Instagram allows is republishing the photos. Again through an app, use for your profile and other people's content. This way, you'll benefit your partner or delight users by sharing a photo of them with your product.
Have we managed to convince you? Myths are myths, and Instagram can only bring benefits (like any social network). If you want to show courage, if you're curious about what your Instagram activity could look like, reach out to us.
Search us here: Facebook, LinkedIn, office@proper.media.
Sources: ig-up.com, sproutsocial.com
