Essential Steps to Grow Your Instagram

1. Switch to an Instagram Business Account

Start by downloading the Instagram app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Create your account, entering your brand's essential details and setting a memorable username and secure password. Once your profile is set up, access your settings and transition to a professional business account. Doing so unlocks advanced features such as in-depth analytics, engagement tracking, and additional profile tools.

2. Optimize Your Profile

Use your Instagram bio (150 characters) to make a strong first impression and clearly communicate your brand's personality and value. Complete all profile sections including your username, website URL, business category, contact information, and call-to-action buttons. Make sure your profile photo matches your brand—typically your company logo—and consider adding clickable hashtags, story highlights, and a “View Shop” button to direct users to your in-app store for more exposure.

3. Establish Style Guidelines

Create a consistent brand look by developing style guidelines for your Instagram posts. Define how brand colors are used, maintain coherence in your images, and set the tone for your content to reinforce brand recognition. Decide on hashtag strategies tailored to your business, such as branded, entertainment, niche, and contest hashtags. Tools like Mailchimp’s digital asset management can assist in crafting and scheduling cohesive content.

4. Plan Your Posting Schedule

Build a diverse and consistent content calendar. Prioritize engaging formats like videos and Reels to increase audience interaction. Feature a mix of themes, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and product updates. Use high-quality images with ample white space and lighter tones for better reach. Research the best times for your audience's activity and keep your hashtag count between 3 and 11 to maximize engagement.

5. Utilize Instagram Stories

Instagram Stories offer powerful ways to connect with your followers. Regular stories, live streams, and authentic behind-the-scenes content build trust and showcase your brand’s human side. Save key stories as highlights to feature promotions, tutorials, and user-generated content on your profile for ongoing visibility.

6. Engage Your Audience

Drive deeper engagement by hosting Instagram Live sessions and actively responding to comments. Try interactive events, Q&As, tutorials, collaborations, or even customer appearances to foster real-time dialogue. Engage with similar profiles and participate in conversations within your niche to expand brand visibility.

7. Launch Targeted Instagram Ads

Reach your ideal customers with Instagram ads targeted by location, interests, behaviors, and demographics. Run campaigns across feeds, Stories, and Explore to maximize impact. Use Instagram analytics to understand your audience and refine campaigns for enhanced engagement and conversion.

Final Thoughts

If your business isn’t active on Instagram, you’re missing out on valuable engagement with visual-first audiences. Implement these proven Instagram marketing strategies and leverage integrated platforms like Mailchimp to manage social media ads, assets, and analytics—all in one place. With the right planning and tools, your brand can achieve meaningful growth and reach.