Okay, although I’m semi-over Instagram, I had a revelation about the platform.
Actually,
James Nord
(founder of
Fohr
) helped me come to this realization.
I’ve been a member of Fohr for quite some time now. I think they’re a great company, that not only cares about their clients (brands), but also about their influencers. I’ve gotten quite a few really awesome campaigns through Fohr, but it wasn’t until late that I’ve started utilizing the tools and Instagram tips they provide. And by “tools they provide”, I mean what James does.
Each week,
James hosts a web show
(ALSO A FREAKIN’ PODCAST, which I recently discovered…just search Fohrcast in the podcast app) called “A Drink With James” where he briefly discusses different topics that affect influencers. In one of the recent episodes, he went on a bit of a rant about influencers complaining about Instagram. It was awesome.
I’m not going to sit here and lie. I’ve been there. I’ve been so frustrated with Instagram, and I’ve spent my fair share of time complaining about the app that has seemingly taken over a lot of people’s lives. I’ve said countless times that I just don’t care about the app, and even eye rolled when people talk about how Instagram is their lives. But then James made some
really
excellent points. I wanted to reiterate these points, and share my thoughts and Instagram tips with you…in hopes to hear your thoughts on the app!
Instagram is a free app.
Sure, there are some exceptions (like buying an ad/boosting your post), but let’s really think about it. Instagram is a free app. F-R-E-E. FREE!!! James brings up that people literally make hundreds of thousands of dollars through this app. People’s careers have skyrocketed because of this platform and the reach they have. So yeah. I guess when you think about, we are pretty damn lucky that there’s an app that we don’t have to pay for…and can still see major benefits from. This was a pretty obvious point, right?
One platform that does so much.
When Instagram first started, you posted photos, and moved on with your day. Now, not so much. Instagram is strategic now. It’s a business. And it does a lot more than it used to. Not only can we post photos, but we can also post videos, add our affiliate links, gauge our audience through polls, and gain really valuable insights through their data. I’ve learned a lot about my audience through Instagram, and I’ve learned what works and what doesn’t thanks to the new features.
The opportunities are insane.
Like I mentioned before, influencers are making a KILLING thanks to Instagram. Although I’m really passionate about sponsored blog opportunities, a lot of the time, brands are looking for Instagram only campaigns. Which is fine. I’m more than happy to do those as well. And when I think about how much I can charge for an Instagram post, I realize how many men and women have created INSANE business solely on their Instagrams. I mean some people charge THOUSANDS for a single post. I’m not saying it’s all about the money, but it’s just crazy to me that people have built a legitimate business off of an APP ON THEIR PHONE.
The algorithm should help you.
Many people are bummed because of the algorithm. I think it’s certainly helping micro-influencers though. I see people with a lower following than me and they are CRUSHING the Instagram game. I’ve been finding myself following people with similar or lower follower counts because I just notice their content is more inspiring, and it inspires me to be better on the platform. I’m finding myself caring less about the numbers, and more about the content I’m pushing out.
James
made an
excellent
point: Think about if there wasn’t an algorithm. I follow about 1250 people on Instagram. I certainly do not have the time to go through ALL of those posts. So instead, Instagram features the posts that they think I want to see (just think about all the data Instagram has on your behavior). If I want to see a certain person more, I make sure I’m ALWAYS engaging with them to let Instagram know I want them on my feed. It’s that simple! Let the Instagram algorithm help you!
What happens if Instagram disappears?
If Instagram disappeared one night, how would you feel? Part of me would be relieved, but the other part of me would be really upset. When I think about Instagram, I think about the community. I’ve made amazing connections on this platform. I’ve met people who’ve made me a better person, helped inspire me to grow my business, and have gotten such great opportunities. So yes, while Instagram could be exhausting, it’s also been a blessing for my business.
So now that I’ve
completely
contradicted myself, I think I’m coming out on the other (better) side. My blog, is and will always be my number 1 priority. That will never change. Instead of feeling bitter towards Instagram, I just need to
think strategically
. At the end of the day, it’s going to be part of my business for a very long time.
How do you feel about Instagram? Have I helped you re-think about the way you look at the platform? Do you have any Instagram tips you want to share?
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