Instagram for Small Business

So, you want to use Instagram to help promote your business? That’s a fantastic idea! Instagram is a “fast, beautiful and fun way” to share anything you want with anyone you want through pictures and video.

First, you must set up your Instagram account. As of now, Instagram is only available through the iPhone or Android device. If you have an iPhone or an Android device you will need to download the Instagram app in the App Store for the iPhone or in Google Play for your Android. Once you’ve installed the app, open Instagram, register, create your username and password and create your profile. Yes, that’s it--you have an Instagram account. Now what?

Instagram allows you to take photos and videos with your mobile device and share them with your followers. For example, a real estate professional could utilize Instagram as a way to build an online reputation and show beautiful properties. According to Instagram’s blog, there are over 130 Million active users on Instagram--some of those active users are bound to be searching for property, right? Not only can you share photos and videos with Instagram, the platform also has searchable Hashtags. 

At your fingertips you have a free, online, social tool to upload photos and videos to 130Million people. It is important to post each property, winning view, sunset from the deck, images of the neighborhood, etc. to show the true beauty of your property. People passively looking at Instagram will see your content as well as those who are actively looking for property to purchase. Those actively looking will keep track of properties you are posting, while seeing what they’re friends ate for lunch and they won’t even feel like they’re “shopping”! The prospective home-buyer will know what they are looking for when they go to the listing on your website. Make sure your profile has a link to your personal or company listings.

Now that you’re familiar with Instagram and how it can help promote your business, what’s next? Start by creating your profile then start sharing your photos and videos with specific Hashtags and watch your followers grow.