Want to be an Instagram influencer and command attention as well as followers? Here are a few ways.
Instagram is a powerful platform that carries massive value for brands. Today, it has over 800 million active monthly users so if you’re not using it, then you really have to. As in now. Right now!
First, what is an Instagram Influencer?
Instagram Influencer. noun. Influencers are Instagram users who have an established credibility and audience; who can persuade others by virtue of their trustworthiness and authenticity. Your brand’s influencers are users that employ your brand hashtag who have the largest number of followers. — Pixlee
In Nigeria we have quite a few influencers here and there, with Maraji being the first one that comes to mind, considering that for a single IG ad, she commands close to N2m.
Swedish Yoga babe, Rachael Brathen commands $25000 per post as an instagram influencer. Talk about paper!
It’s not easy to be one, as that niche is saturated, but in this post I will show you how you can become an Instagram influencer.
So how you can become an Instagram influencer?
Well,
1. Pick up a niche and master it.
First of all, you need to select a niche you are extremely passionate about. My personal instagram account is only music related — while as seen below, our Pishon account is strictly web related.
Yeah, we are far from being an instagram influencer with this account. But we are closer with our other instagram account. (link above). Once you pick a niche, you’ll have to stick to it. So pick something that reflects your true interest and one you are a master in, not something you have no idea about.
2. Focus on growing your followers
You cannot be an Instagram influencer if you don’t have anyone to share your thoughts and content with, yeah? So you gotta start building these followers to a decent number. These posts below may help:
Click on the links above (After reading this post, of course) and get started to growing your followers.
3. Find your Unique Voice
Yeah, study your popular influencers. They have a way and a manner of speaking…er, writing. A friend of mine writes in Capitalize on all her social platforms, so I know when she’s not the one tweeting. Develop this voice as you’re building your followers as this will help them recognize your brand everywhere.
You never know who’s listening.
4. Content…and your Instagram feed, is everything.
This one is important.
You cannot post everything and anything on your feed. (See step 1 above.) Since you are aiming to become a top voice at your niche, which, let’s say is Guitars, then you cannot in your next post write about Avocados. This ain’t a health blog. You see, you gotta do it right.
The right content speaks volume: Instagram being the popular visual medium, because of its aesthetical aspects like photo, video, and text can play a vital role in boosting your profile as an influencer. There is no fixed rule but always make sure that your posts should be engaging, entertaining and unique in terms of presentation.
Focus on posting valuable content for your viewers. Your content will only trend/influence amongst readers when it is consistent and engaging. Right hashtags, catchy captions, and subtle humour are always appreciated. – DC
5. Your bio gotta be good.
Which bio makes you want to click “follow”?
One of the first things you need to focus on is creating a bio that immediately catches people’s attention. It should talk about your story in a way that engages people. If you don’t have a clear and concise bio, customers probably won’t follow your brand. List the relevant keywords you use to describe yourself and your brand. Don’t be vague. You need followers, and you’re not batman!
6. Publish your content consistently, fam.
Have you noticed that if you don’t post for a while on Instagram, your engagement rate drops? Well, that’s down to their algorithm. It’s annoying, but it’s their platform, so we have to roll with the punches. Sighhh. Consistency is the key for every aspect of life and so for becoming an Instagram influencer. Unique and quality content gains more exposure over the internet be it any social media platform.
You might want to check:
(after reading this post, of course. Lol)
Studies have revealed that an increase in your content posting frequency can boost engagement rates.
7. Go offline. The whole world isn’t on Instagram.
Once in a while, go offline to build your audience. This is very necessary if you’re a musician or a creative. People want to meet you in person. Not every time a nice photoshopped picture. Evolve and connect your brand with people in your industry and you will find a whole new audience. I find that when I play some events, my followers triple depending on if I remember to announce my social handles, lol.
Attending events, creating engaging activities and meeting fans provide a great leverage in long terms.
8. Finally, Interact! Connect. Influence!
You have the bio, the followers and a listening audience. Now is the time to interact! Use the available Instagram tools to check out the best times your followers are online (We’re in different timezones, duh) and then post so you can get the maximum attention. No point posting when everyone is asleep!
See Top 10 Instagram Tools to grow your profile
I use scheduling apps too. See link in (7) above.
Use a good photo editing app, get your captions right, and you’re definitely on your way to becoming an instagram influencer to reckon with!
In conclusion,
There are other factors I didn’t mention, such as hashtags, photo tips, etc, but these 8 tips should set you well on your way. So as a recap, the 8 ways to become an instagram influencer include:
- Pick up a niche and master it
- Focus on growing your followers
- Find your unique voice
- Content…and your instagram feed is important
- Your bio gotta be good
- Publish your content consistently
- Go offline
- Interact, connect and influence!
Goodluck!
Recommended:
- 6 Instagram Scheduling Apps
- 10 Instagram Tools to help you grow your profile
- 8 ways to become an Instagram Influencer
- 10 Instagram Apps for Instagrammers
