I was going to write an article on how you can build your Instagram following and then decided I would target the article at me and what I can do to increase my instagram following.

It’s pretty unimpressive - starting with just 71 followers, my Instagram account, @sarahcolgate_bizmarketing, has immense potential for growth and needs to grow so I can stop being embarrassed by it!

As you know Instagram is a powerful platform to connect with your audience, showcase your expertise, and drive business growth.

Here’s my step-by-step guide on how to build an instagram audience from scratch, complete with actionable examples tailored for my instagram account @sarahcolgate_bizmarketing;

1. Optimise Your Profile

Your Instagram profile is the first impression visitors get of your brand. Make sure it’s complete and compelling.

Profile Picture: Use a professional, high-quality photo of yourself to build trust and recognition.

Bio: Write a concise bio that clearly states who you are, what you do, and what value you offer. Include relevant keywords and a call to action.

Example: "Business Growth & Marketing Expert: Helping Entrepreneurs Achieve Success: Tips, Strategies, & Insights. Free Marketing Guide"

Link: Use the link in your bio to direct followers to your website or a specific landing page.

2. Create High-Quality Content

Content is king on Instagram.

I need to put more focus on creating high-quality, valuable content that resonates with my audience. My audience is business owners wanting to grow their business.

Types of Content:

Educational Posts: Share tips, strategies, and insights on business growth and marketing.
Behind-the-Scenes: Show a glimpse of your daily work life to build a personal connection.
Client Success Stories: Highlight testimonials and case studies to showcase your expertise.

Example Post: "Top 5 Tips for Crafting an Effective Marketing Message! Swipe left to read more #BusinessGrowth #MarketingTips"

3. Use Hashtags Strategically

Hashtags increase the visibility of your posts. Use a mix of popular and niche-specific hashtags to reach a broader audience.

Example Hashtags:

#BusinessGrowth, #MarketingExpert, #EntrepreneurTips, #SmallBusinessSuccess, #SarahColgateBizMarketing

4. Engage with Your Audience

Engagement is key to growing your Instagram following. Respond to comments, answer questions, and engage with your followers’ content.

Example:

"Thank you for the great tips, Sarah!"

Sarah’s Response: "You’re welcome! I’m glad you found them helpful. What’s your biggest challenge in business growth?"

5. Collaborate with Others

Collaborations can significantly boost your visibility. Partner with other influencers, experts, or businesses in your niche for mutual benefit.

Example Collaboration:

Host an Instagram Live session with a fellow marketing expert discussing the latest trends in digital marketing. Promote the event on both profiles to attract a larger audience.

I am planning this at the moment, just working out who I am best to partner with. Any suggestions?

6. Leverage Instagram Stories and Reels

Instagram Stories and Reels are great for increasing engagement and reaching new followers. Use them to share quick tips, announce upcoming events, or showcase behind-the-scenes moments.

Example Story:

"Exciting news! I’m launching a new free marketing guide next week. Stay tuned! #BusinessGrowth #MarketingStrategies"

Example Reel:

A quick, engaging video showing "3 Easy Steps to Optimise Your Instagram Profile."

Easy as, we are working on some blogs (this one for example) and some cool videos to help with more stories and reels.

7. Run Contests and Giveaways

Contests and giveaways can rapidly increase your followers and engagement. Encourage participants to follow your account, like the post, and tag friends.

Example Giveaway: "GIVEAWAY TIME! Win a free one-hour business growth consultation with me! To enter:

Follow @sarahcolgate_bizmarketing
Like this post
Tag 3 friends in the comments #Giveaway #BusinessGrowth"

This is such a good idea. It’s on the list of social media posts!

8. Post Consistently

Consistency is crucial for maintaining and growing your audience. Develop a content calendar and stick to a regular posting schedule.

Example Schedule:

Monday: Marketing Tip of the Week
Wednesday: Client Success Story
Friday: Q&A Session on Stories

Ok, not something we were doing but will be sure to create more of a structure around our posts.

9. Analyse and Adjust Your Strategy

Regularly review your Instagram analytics to understand what content performs best and adjust your strategy accordingly.

Example Insight:

If your educational posts get the most engagement, consider increasing the frequency of these posts and experimenting with different formats.

Conclusion

To build an instagram audience from scratch requires a strategic approach and consistent effort.

By optimising my profile, creating high-quality content, engaging with my audience, and leveraging Instagram’s features, I am confident that I can significantly increase my followers and build an instagram audience that is strong and engaged around my brand.

Stay with me and see how I go with implementing my own strategies to increase followers and engagement.

Ready to elevate your Instagram game and drive business growth? Follow these steps and watch your audience grow and give me a call for some suggestions, help and advice to elevate your business today. Read through other blogs for more strategies.

Phone: 0491 729 043

Email: info@sarahcolgate.com.au

A Guide for Sarah Colgate to Build an Instagram Audience