Follow these tips every time you post, and always keep in mind the value you offer your audience.
#1. Say Hi To New Followers
Click over to their account and leave genuine comments about what they are posting on their feed. This subtly lets that person know that you see them and value them as part of your community.
Commenting on the feed of a new follower subtly lets them know that you see them and value them. Click To Tweet#2. Like a Lot of Photos
It’s important to be “out and about” in the Instagram community looking for your idea customer and finding those who may not be searching for you through the 30 hashtags you’re using.
#3. Connect People
Connecting people isn’t the “I’ll promote you on my account, and you can promote me on yours” thing. This is directing people to another account because you truly think they have something to offer your audience, and you expect nothing in return.
#4. Ask A Question
Never post without asking a question again! Post without fear of getting no response. That will happen, but you must “train” your audience to interact. Questions that only require a one or two word response are much more likely to get answered. If you aren’t already in the habit of doing this, don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! I made you an easy Engagement Question Generator that you can download below.
#5. Respond to All Comments
If you want an awesome, authentic Instagram community, you must acknowledge all comments. Responding makes your fans more likely to comment again in the future.
#6. Leave Meaningful Feedback
Don’t be “that guy” (or gal) who scrolls through, commenting the same generic comment. Be genuine when you engage on other accounts, or skip the comment altogether!
#7. Include a Call to Action
Do you want them to click a link to read an article, download an item, sign up for something, pass on the message, tag a friend? Get in the habit of telling people what you want them to do. The alternative is that they won’t know, and they won’t do anything. Not good.
What tips and strategies do you use to foster engagement on your account?
Molly Marshall teaches small business owners and online entrepreneurs how to systematically and simply grow a profitable online presence through social media. Get your FREE Instagram Strategy Guide now!
Couldn’t agree more about the whole generic comment thing. Those ‘wow’ and ‘super’ comments drive me bonkers.