
If you want to share a motivational quote, put the quote on top of one of your own images. Instagram is a place to share your own content, not share generic Google search result images. When reposting, always, always, always provide proper attribution. There are some third-party apps which will allow you to repost another user’s post to your account while giving proper attribution to the original user. If you want to utilize user generated content (UGC) in your strategy, have users tag you or use hashtags on their posts. Just because you like someone else’s photo doesn’t mean you can post it as your own. Don’t steal other Instagram users’ content When used regularly, comments will significantly impact your relationship with your audience. Then respond (using their to notify them) and thank them or answer their question. When people take the time to comment on your posts or ask questions, do not ignore them! Make sure you check your notifications regularly to stay on top of comments. Here’s more of my advice on where to put your Instagram hashtags. Using inappropriate hashtags to show up in popular searches won’t help you reach new followers – you’ll actually end up alienating possible followers. Don’t use popular hashtags like #tagforlikes or #onedirection or #love if they have absolutely nothing to do with your post. Choose 5-7 relevant hashtags to include in your caption. However, using more than 7-10 hashtags is overkill. Hashtags are extremely important on Instagram and should be used on every post to increase reach. Whatever it is, find something relevant to include on your posts.įor more advice, check out this post on Instagram captions. Tell people what the photo is, share a quote, ask a question. Posts with captions get higher levels of engagement and they allow you to interact with your audience. No matter how awesome your image is, it needs a caption. Be engaging and you’ll create better relationships with other Instagram users. Instead, post regularly and like/comment on others’ posts as frequently as possible. Unless you’re brand new to the platform, don’t lurk in the shadows. Instagram is all about interaction and sharing posts. You will gain followers much more quickly if they can see your content and don’t have to wait for approval. Instead, set your account to Public so that new followers can see what you post and what you’re about.

Unless you are using Instagram solely for personal reasons and don’t want to network, do NOT set your account to Private. Instead, use the same username as your Twitter handle and make your name something easy to recognize, whether it’s your real name or your business name. If you make your username (and even your “real” name) hard to find, people won’t be able to find and follow you.

Unfortunately, the search function within Instagram isn’t as powerful as other sites. Here are the 14 things NOT to do on Instagram: Don’t use an awkward username on Instagram Don’t follow someone only to unfollow them later to grow your fan base.Don’t auto share every Instagram post to Facebook and Twitter.Don’t steal other Instagram users’ content.Don’t use an awkward username on Instagram.

