Instagram is a great platform to use for both socializing and business. Even though social media can become a waste of time, what makes this one different is the benefits that users can get from it. However, when it comes to posting content, building a following, and generating traffic to your profile, there are many rewards that come with using Instagram. Just like going on a date or attending a job interview, first impressions are important.
Here are 13 benefits that creative professionals will get by joining Instagram:
1. Inspiration for personal websites or blogs
The feed on Instagram has millions of photos on any topic that you might want to research, read or writing about for your blog. You can also find ideas for books and new apps. Make sure to follow other users that have the same interests as you. Discover new connections and expand your creative mind.
2. Connecting with open-minded individuals
The way that you physically look is not important. However, since people are judged based on their appearance when they first interact, everyone has to look presentable and professional. On Instagram, the first photo is a hint of your unique personality, so you always make sure that you look cool, fun or sociable. That is why it could take some time to post a good picture and yet you will still question the outcome.
3. Showing off your best work from your digital portfolio
For graphic designers, programmers, a real estate and travel agent, Instagram is the best platform for displaying amazing photos of houses, app designs, and unique artwork. Share behind-the-scenes footage. Make sure to keep your audience engaged. This will give them a reason to follow you back.
4. Feedback on your art and photography
Getting criticism is hard to handle, but remember that it is only used to increase your confidence and improve your work. Accept compliments and helpful advice from your audience while ignoring the haters. Remember not to get discouraged. The more likes you get will determine the type of posts that people like.
5. Opportunity to become famous
To make sure your friends see your first Instagram photo you might consider tagging their names in the photo, even if they are not in the picture. If you feel that the photo looks good enough, it would not hurt to tag others. This might actually increase engagement. It could be okay for the first one, but for future photos, only tag friends if they are actually in the picture, so they do not feel left out.
6. Give the world more insight about you
The bio is the most important part of Instagram. Here you can give as much or as little information about yourself. Links to your website or blog can be included as well. You can always use a username if you do not want to include your real one.
7. Call attention to important people by tagging them
To show your friends or other important people that you care, be sure to tag them in the photos they are in. You can search for them on Instagram without difficultly. They will appreciate it. Perhaps, they will tag you in their photos as well.
8. Creating a collage of photos to better showcase your work
Sometimes you will see family members or other relatives on your social media platforms. This is not a bad thing because when you are away or living at college, you can still stay in contact with them. However, it could also make you panic especially if you posted a silly or crazy moment. If you first joined Instagram it should not be a problem if your family sees it because you are just letting them know that you are enjoying life and have another way of communicating with them as well.
9. Have a separate account for business
Instagram is often used by people that love to travel, explore the NYC, and attend concerts. While all of that is fun, having an Instagram account just for business is helpful. Use one for progress in your company and the other for your travels. This way you can balance your work and social life.
10. Give attention to a product or service
If you are in the process of marketing or selling an invention or design, this is another reason to join. On Instagram, you can reach many customers in a short amount of time. Make sure to sell emotions. By explaining the benefits about the items rather than the features, more people would want to buy it.
11. Generate more revenue from likes
The more attention that your photos receive the higher the revenue for your business, so it's important to make good content and interact with your followers on a daily basis. Make sure to like their photos and follow back. Infographics are good ideas. Keep things simple to understand.
12. You can have pages and share stories like Facebook and Snapchat
Instagram is also great for sending messages to friends and sharing photos. Another cool feature is the stories that are similar to Snapchat. This will help to promote your business and show off your personality. Your Facebook photos can be shared on Instagram as well. This is a very useful social media platform.
13. You can make your account private
Choosing to set your account to private means that you have control over your photos, and in order for others to see your pictures you need to accept their invitation. This is good for a personal account, but not for a business one. To succeed, your audience needs to see your photos. Be careful what you post.