During that slippery time between Christmas and New Year, when most of us were tucking into the second Terry’s Chocolate Orange while watching Home Alone 2, Instagram quietly brought a new feature to our Instagram feeds.
In what’s been described as the platform’s biggest change since the algorithm change, Instagram’s feed now shows users recommended content within their regular feed.
These recommended posts are based on likes by users that you follow – content which you wouldn’t be able to view without going into the ‘Explore’ section of the app.
Each ‘Recommended for You’ post will be clearly marked within feeds, rather than appearing as a normal post you from someone you follow.
The introduction of this feature will mean Instagram users will be able to view content from their wider network straight from their feed.
An Instagram spokesperson explained to TechCrunch that the posts will appear after users have viewed their own feed.
What it means for your business
While some Instagram users are unhappy about the quiet implementation of the feature, this is certainly a win for small businesses looking to boost their social media.
If you’re struggling to get your Instagram game off the ground, you’ll now become more visible – providing you’re putting the time in to create a great brand and get those all-important likes!
Now, if just one person likes your post, it’s likely that a number of their friends will see it in the ‘Recommended For You’ section, which means you’ll reach a wider audience just by continuing as you are!
However, if you want to not just continue, but grow, you can check out some of our top tips on bringing your Instagram to life in our blog post, ‘6 Essentials to a Killer Organic Instagram Strategy’.
But if it’s just a few simple tips to get started you’re after, look no further.
Set up your account
If you’re yet to get a business Instagram account, the process is pretty simple.
Simply download the app on your phone and sign up by providing your name, email, username and password.
A doddle!
Start following
Now you’re in, it’s time to find the people and business you want to see in your feed and give them a follow. This will help you get a feel for what the app is like and how you should proceed when you’re ready to post your own images.
A good technique here is to follow your competition. You’ll get a real feel for how people in your industry use the platform and what the return can be.
Post your first pictures
And now you’re set up, you’re ready to start posting! Your pictures should provide insight into your business and have a caption. Before you begin you may want to think about how you will approach it – do you want a strategy, or will you pop online whatever you think is noteworthy?
Take some time getting the best angle and taking multiple shots with as much natural lighting as possible before you post – don’t forget that all important filter and those hashtags!
For more tips and tricks check out our 6 Essentials to a Killer Organic Instagram Strategy
What do you think of the latest Instagram feature? Leave your comments in the section below or get in touch with us over on Facebook or Twitter.
