10 Ways You Could be Missing Out on Instagram (for Your Small Business)

Whether you're new to the social media marketing game or just aren't sure what all the fuss is about, Instagram in particular represents an incredible opportunity for your small business that is far too important to ignore.

If you know how to use it properly, that is.

In fact, there are not one but TEN different ways that you could be missing out on Instagram for your small business (eleven, if you don't actually have a profile to start with). Rest assured that these are things that you're going to want to avoid as much as possible moving forward.

1. You're Not Setting Up Your Profile in the Right Way

If you really want to make sure that your small business isn't missing out on Instagram, make absolutely certain that you're setting up your profile in the proper way to begin with. Not only should you include a bio with an outline of what you do and links to your homepage, but you should also link all of your other social media accounts like Facebook, Twitter and even Foursquare to Instagram as well.

2. You're Not Using Instagram Stories

Instagram Stories are Instagram's version of Snapchat, essentially, and they describe content that disappears after 24 hours. This is a great way to create a sense of urgency within your content, so you should make an effort to use it as much as possible.

3. You're Not Using It Enough

Social media is far more proactive than people tend to realize. Yes, you're busy as a small

business owner - but if you really want to develop a following, you need to make sure you're posting quality content as often as you can.

4. You're Not Monitoring What's Working

Instagram includes a number of built-in reporting tools that give you valuable insights into your account's activity. You can see what is working and, more importantly, what isn't - giving you a chance to double down on the former and fix the latter as soon as you can.

5. You're Not Responding to Comments

Social media and Instagram in particular is all about engagement. If people are leaving you comments but you're not responding, pretty soon they're going to stop doing so... which could cause them to check out altogether. Always respond to as many comments as you can, especially criticism.

6. You're Not Using Hashtags

Hashtags aren't just a great way to get in on conversations that are already happening on Instagram, but they're also a perfect opportunity to make it easier to find the content you do post. Make sure that you're using as many hashtags as possible to give yourself a solid chance of getting discovered.

7. You're Only Posting Photos

Instagram may have started out as a platform for sharing photos, but it's long since evolved beyond that. You should also post video content related to your small business, as it's a great way to get in on one of the hottest trends today in a way that is certain to increase your engagement as well.

8. You're Not Posting Live Videos

Instagram also includes a live video feature. Make no mistake - you should absolutely use it. People not only are more likely to watch a video live than if it is pre-recorded, but they're also likely to watch that video for longer periods of time as well. This is another one of those opportunities that you definitely don't want to overlook.

9. You're Not Varying Up Your Content

Posting photos and videos on Instagram is great... but have you ever thought about hosting an Instagram-exclusive contest? Maybe one where people can win a prize by posting their own photos while using your products or services? This is a perfect chance to give back to your audience in a way that also builds anticipation and brings your audience in on the fun.

10. You See Instagram as JUST an Engagement Platform

Finally, don't ever make the mistake that Instagram is JUST about advertising for your small business. It's about engagement, first and foremost. Focus on creating the types of content that strike a chord with your audience first. Consider advertising a secondary goal.

To find out more information about the myriad of different ways that your marketing in Pensacola could be missing out in Instagram, or if you'd just like to discuss the finer points of small business marketing feel free to contact me.