Creating an Instagram account is usually a pretty straightforward process. But once it’s made, how do you build a larger audience?
The answer is hashtags!
If you add hashtags to your posts, they can appear when other people search for that hashtag.
Today, we are going to show you how to increase your discoverability by using this awesome perk that is built into Instagram.
Using Hashtags for Your Business
If you aren’t quite sure what a hashtag is, read here for more information. Once you feel like you have a decent understanding, read on to learn how to use them effectively.
Hashtags for Your Product & Industry
Throw in some hashtags that relate directly to your product. And if your goal is to find others related to your community or business industry, you can use phrases like #artistsofinstagram, #bakersofinstagram, or #scientistsofinstagram.
Hashtags for Holidays
Holidays are a great excuse to post. Here are a few options for Christmas:
#christmas #christmastree #christmastime #christmasgift #christmasiscoming #christmasgifts #christmasdecor #christmasdecorations #christmas2015 #christmaslights #christmasshopping #christmas2017 #christmasparty #christmaseve #christmaspresent #christmasspirit #christmaspresents #christmascard #christmascountdown #christmasmarket #christmascards #christmasmood #ChristmasDay #christmasdecoration #christmasornaments #christmascookies #ChristmasSeason #christmasgiftideas #christmasideas #christmaswreath
You can also think out of the box and have fun with obscure holidays like #nationaldonutday or #nationaltreeday.
Location hashtags
If you are trying to find more local viewers, try some location-based tags. #saltcitypastries or #madeinnevada are good examples.
Hashtag of the day
A common trend you might see is daily hashtags such as #mondaymotivation or #tacotuesdays.
3 Tips for Expanding Your Reach Via Hashtags
Now that you have a better idea of what a hashtag is and how they can be used, we are going to give you some tips to reach more potential customers.
#1 - Check the hashtag’s popularity
Every hashtag gives you the ability to see how many times it’s been used. You can use a number of online tools, including this one.
As you dive into popularity, you can also think about how to narrow your audience down a bit.
For example, using #foodtrucks will give you access to a really broad audience. A narrower audience would be #nyfoodtrucks. To get even more specific, try something like #chickensandwichfoodtruck.
#2 - Discover similar hashtags
Type out a hashtag you may have already used to see which results Instagram suggests automatically. Rotate through a variety of tags to see which one works best for you.
#3 - Use Insights to see your hashtag’s performance
Clicking on “View Insights” will show you impressions from your hashtags. This will help you get a clear picture as to which hashtags are working with you and which aren't.
Create Your Own Hashtags
One of the ways you can differentiate yourself from other brands is to get creative and develop your own hashtags. Have fun with it!
Here's how you do it:
Start by plugging in your own business name. Let's say your company is Jane's Wig Shop... it's as simple as this: #janeswigshop.
If you think using your company name is a little boring, you can do something like #janeswigshoplovesyou or #janeswigsrock.
Get customers to use your hashtag
Let your customers know they can use your hashtag in their own stories and posts. This allows other viewers to tap on that hashtag and see other posts related to your business.
Follow accounts who use your hashtag
Pay attention to who is using your business tag. Make sure you follow the accounts that are promoting your brand. The more you foster your Instagram account and the people who support it, the more you'll get out of it.
Connect with Your Audience Via Tagging and Mentions
When you tag or mention others, they get a notification. Tagging can be helpful for a number of reasons, including:
- It creates a conversation.
- Your brand appears to care and want to add something to the world.
- People love connection and are craving for it.
Tagging or mentioning is a great way to connect with your community, increase brand awareness, and get people excited about what you have to offer.
You can also share pictures and videos of customers using your product and tag or mention them in the caption. This can encourage them to share with their own community of friends and family. Just don’t forget to get their permission first!
Create a Location Tag for Your Business
If your store has a physical spot, create a location for your business. Customers can add that location to their posts when they visit your store, allowing their followers to easily discover your business.
Last Words
The secret to your success is to really dive in and create your own hashtag strategy. Every brand and the way its audience connects with them is different... what works for one brand in your industry may not work for you.
And honestly, finding your own unique spin will probably get you much further. Take the above best practices, test, and then find a hashtag roadmap that gives you the best results possible.
And then... when you find what works for you... keep testing and growing your efforts. It's about constant innovation and growth.
Related Posts:
