Popularized in 2018 and fast-forwarding 3 years, influencer marketing has shown no signs of slowing down. Every average Joe dreams of being an influencer now, however, it’s not as simple as it sounds. Posting latte pictures or an aesthetic sunset image, or simply choosing to buy Instagram followers will make you a successful Instagram influencer, as there’s a lot more that goes on behind the scenes. If you’re looking for some insider insights, we’re here with the ultimate 5 tips to become a successful Instagram influencer.
IDENTIFY YOUR NICHE AND AESTHETIC
Being focused on a particular niche and being consistent with your posts around it can help to redirect a more dedicated and loyal audience. It’s natural to have multiple interests, however, it’s important to figure out what you’re passionate about and what you’re best at. It may be travel, digital marketing, fitness, fashion, or anything else that resonates with your interests. Identifying your niche and aesthetic can also simplify your content strategy planning and organizing. While it’s okay to branch out and diversify your niche, having a few concrete content pillars is a must.
Creating a cohesive and aesthetic feed that matches your vibe can make people stay longer on your profile. It can also help brands in distinguishing you from other non-influencer profiles and show your dedication and consistency. So, decide on an aesthetic (minimalist, luxury, pastels, etc.) and bring consistency in your theme, posting schedule, color palette, templates, and font. You can save time by pre-planning your content and scheduling posts.
POST TRENDY AND HIGH-QUALITY CONTENT CONSISTENTLY
Posting high-quality content consistently is the most effective way to grow on Instagram. Even if you’ve chosen to buy Instagram followers, the key to retain them is to offer some value through high-quality content. The content that you’re posting should either be fun or inspiring. Since Instagram is dominated by millennials and Gen-Z, it’s imperative that hopping to different trends can help you stay relevant and keep your audience hooked. The aspect of high-quality content should also stretch to quality images and sound effects.
Brands are also on the lookout for profiles with high post-optimization so invest in a tripod and high-quality camera. Being consistent with your posts helps in building anticipation and keeping your audience interested. Even on rainy days when you lack the inspiration to create content, post stories or interact with your audience to show up consistently. Just as a social media expert, Gary Vaynerchuk suggests, “Document, don’t create!”
MASTER INSTAGRAM FEATURES AND LAYOUTS
Instagram is loaded with so many useful in-built features that can be leveraged to increase engagements without having to buy Instagram followers. If you want to become a successful influencer on Instagram, you first need to understand and master the entire know-how of this platform. So, step beyond a 2011 image-only approach and discover what the platform has to offer. IGTV series, Instagram stories, interactive stickers like polls and quizzes, fun filters, and trendy music; there’s a lot that can be learned to create more fun and engaging content.
With the rise of TikTok, short-video formats like reels have skyrocketed and can lead to massive growth. Other than staying updated with the trendy formats and filters, it’s also crucial to monitor the Instagram algorithm to create your content calendar accordingly. Don’t forget to track your Instagram analytics to study your audience and optimize accordingly.
NETWORK AND BUILD A COMMUNITY
Engagement rates and growth are prime components of getting brand collaborations. However, having a high follower count is merely a vanity by now even if one has chosen to buy Instagram followers. If you want to enhance your engagements, it is important to build a loyal community. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a micro-influencer or a large-scale blogger, building an authentic relationship requires effort from your end.
So, respond to comments, regram other creators’ content, leverage built-in interactive stickers, reply to DMs and don’t hesitate to initiate conversations. It may get harder to respond to every comment once your growth catches some pace, but make it a rule of thumb to reply to a pre-decided number of comments and DMs daily. You can also expand your community by networking and collaborating with other influencers of your niche and reaching out to brands.
DON’T SHY AWAY FROM YOUR UNIQUENESS
There is no shortage of people who are trying to capitalize their Instagram through an influencer approach. If you want to outshine your competitors and leave an impact, you need to find your unique pitch and identify what sets you apart. If you have a rare condition, multiple talents, or maybe you can do something weirdly cool; embrace your quirks and highlight your uniqueness. Some of the most successful influencers have reached where they are because they didn’t shy away from letting their audience in. Staying authentic also helps in building a stronger community and leaving an impact. So, ditch your insecurities, be yourself and remember: If you’ve got it, flaunt it!
CONCLUSION
Being an Instagram influencer is a legitimized career option, and now it’s your time to grab your opportunity! Success doesn’t guarantee itself overnight, however, consistency and creativity will surely make you reach your goals. So implement these tips and go get that influencer lifestyle, don’t forget to come back to our space for more insights and tips.