Instagram is a booming social networking application which uses pictures to connect people across the web. You can share a picture of your beautiful trip to the Bahamas, hard earned running medal or (like most people) your mediocre breakfast set-up at Cora's. Instagram is absolutely brilliant from a business persons stand-point, you can follow people or potential customers then simultaneously gain followers and use that newly gained follower base to showcase your new products, events or whatever it is you may want to advertise. It's free marketing, with enormous potential for any business. That being said, here are three ways someone could use Istagram for business purposes.
1) First and foremost, any business person could use Instagram (and should be using Instagram!). Instagram isn't only for the modern hipster or sneakerhead-enthusiast; Instagram is for anybody and everybody, it's very user friendly. Many people ranging from all ages use the app and more than least follow it quite frequently, people are always scrolling for new content to catch their eye or a new interesting account to follow. With that in mind, you can create your account showcasing your business and follow a potential fan/customer base hoping they might wish to follow you back to see what your business has to offer. If they see that your content is relevant and attractive to their likes and wants (i.e; your product and/or service) they can choose to follow you. BAM! Now you have one new follower and potential customer in your grasp, now you just have to keep them on the hook with what's to follow in your social-advertising future.
2) Now that you have some followers who share the same interests as your business, you can begin to post your content! Your content will include all the relevant content necessary to properly market your product/service/business pitching it straight to your customers mobile device and/or computer. And what's the best part about this? IT'S FREE! Free publicity is always welcomed into a business.
3) Now that your customers see what you are, what you have to offer, you can show them who you are. You can continue to post simple product grids or event posters, but this is your business account. This is your businesses face in Instagram, help your customer connect. Make them feel as if someone is behind that branding, not just a corporate machine being paid by the hour. Become active, branch out a bit (but stay relevant), post some things that show who and what your business is about. Show who you are, show what you stand or don't stand for. Show your philosophy, ambitions, inspire somebody! You can get creative with this one.
There are limitless applications to using this application within a business world, and it's truly amazing. You can demonstrate your business to your fan base and create a deeper connection, luring your customer in for some unique, everyday product placement. All for free.
Thanks for reading!
