If you’re feeling discouraged while growing your Instagram, you’re not alone. So many people talk about the benefits of using Instagram, but it’s easy to get lost when you’re trying to grow your following.
Let’s work on breaking down why people do this and how.
Instagram is one of the most popular social media platforms today and is continuing to grow, constantly adding new features. Many use Instagram for messaging and following stories, while others scroll through their content feed and can’t get enough of IGTV. Because people use the platform differently, it’s best to work on learning the different features and diversifying your content so you can reach as many people as possible.
You might be surprised to learn that more than 500 million people use Instagram every single day. There are over a billion people active on the platform every month and they spend an average of 53 minutes a day on Instagram. If you’re feeling discouraged, it isn’t because there aren’t people out there to connect with on Instagram. It’s about learning how to do it effectively.
One influencer learning to do this is Jessie Sims. Her account now has 709k Instagram followers and over 200 posts, but you can also see that she’s utilizing stories and other features on the platform to connect.
When asked about how she did this, she’s said that it’s a combination of three key elements: consistency, using the various features (IGTV, reels, and stories), and making content that is true to herself.
Consistency is one area many people growing their Instagram really struggle with. A lot of this boils down to believing that you’ll connect with audiences if you stick with creating content and posting on a regular, disciplined basis. Those who learn how to build routines find that consistency does a number of things for their accounts.
For one thing, the algorithm on Instagram rewards people who post regularly. They see that their followers are engaging with the content often, and so Instagram makes sure people see more of what like. Consistency also builds trust with an audience. Because Jessie Sims posts regularly, her fans know to look for her posts.
As mentioned above, different Instagram users focus on different areas. Some check their stories more often, settle in for some time on IGTV, or prioritize checking their
content feed. By being in as many places as possible, you’ll be more visible and connect with the right audience. Experiment with your content using each feature to see what works best for you.
It’s easy to fall prey to thinking that you should make content similar to your favorite influencers. The thing that experienced influencers eventually come to find is that followers know what’s authentic to you. When you’re trying to be someone else, it reads that way. Why should they follow you instead of the person you’re imitating?
What you have to offer is your own work. No one else has your voice, your viewpoint, your experiences. You, yourself, are unique. Create as much content as possible and you’ll start to find your voice and learn to connect with your audience.
Speaking of creating content, it can be difficult, especially on your own. If you’ve considered working with photographers, it may be worth a try. Jessie Sims shares her experience.
“Working with photographers is great, less stress on me to get the shot. Just make sure the photographer is reputable and trustworthy beforehand and if anything makes you uncomfortable don’t be afraid to speak up or even leave.”
At the end of the day, is all of this work with it? Because that’s what it is: work. Building an Instagram following requires consistent effort, learning to use the different features, and bravely putting yourself out there. For Jessie Sims, the answer seems to be yes. When asked about how Instagram has affected her life she adds, “Instagram has given me an opportunity to be my own boss which is probably my favorite part. In addition to that, I’ve had some pretty cool opportunities going to music festivals, work with brands, even going to really cool locations.”