How to Set Up Instagram for Business Part 3

What to Post on Instagram for Business

Instagram is a visual platform, so you want to think of ways to market your business using photos and videos. Beyond that, there are few rules. However, all of your posts should be consistent with your social marketing strategy. Consider your goal, and make sure everything you post on Instagram supports that goal.

Is your social marketing strategy to demonstrate how your small business supports your local community? Post videos on Instagram from community events, or post photos previewing the big local festival or high school football game.

Is your social marketing goal to show off your strong customer service and put a friendly face on your team? Post behind-the-scenes photos of your employees hard at work, or post videos of your team members talking about why they love working with your customers.

Some common subjects of Instagram posts include:

  • Your products
  • Behind-the-scenes of your products being made
  • You or your employees at work
  • Your storefront, office or work van
  • Before-and-after of projects or contracting jobs
  • How-to photos or videos of home repairs
  • Decorating or remodeling ideas
  • Happy customers with your products or completed services
  • Local attractions or community events
  • Coupons, contests or promotions exclusive to social followers

How to Post a Photo on Instagram

Sharing a photo on Instagram is almost as easy as taking one. When you tap the camera icon at the bottom of the screen, you will be given the option of selecting an existing photo from your “Library,” or taking a new photo or video in the app. If you select a photo from your library you will have the chance crop the photo before proceeding. Taking a new photo is even easier; the only options here are whether to use flash or the front-facing selfie camera.

Once you have a photo or video you like, follow these steps to share it on Instagram:

  1. Take a new photo or select a photo from your library, and tap “Next” in the upper right corner.
  2. Select a preset filter from the horizontal list at bottom, to tap “Edit” to manually adjust the color and exposure settings. Tap “Next.”
  3. Add your location (optional but recommended if this is your business location).
  4. Tag other people by using their Instagram user names (optional); they will be notified that you included them.
  5. Choose if you want to post your Instagram photo directly to Facebook or Twitter at the same time you share it on Instagram (optional; make sure it supports your social marketing strategy on those other platforms).
  6. Write a caption for your photo; include a brief description of the post, and include a few hashtags.
  7. Tap “Share” at the top right to publish your post to Instagram.
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