The use of social media has become an essential part of any business strategy in today’s fast-paced digital world. It allows businesses to connect with their target audience, showcase their products or services, and build brand awareness. One of the most popular social media platforms for businesses is Instagram, with over one billion active users worldwide. If you’re a small business owner or entrepreneur looking to expand your online presence, setting up an Instagram business account is a must. In partnership with The UK Domain, we give you a four-step guide to set up your Instagram business account and get your brand noticed.
Step 1: Create a Business Profile
The first step to setting up your Instagram business account is to create a business profile. If you already have a personal account, you can easily convert it into a business profile. To do this, go to your profile, click on the three lines in the top right corner, and select “Settings”. From there, click on “Account” and then “Switch to Professional Account”. Follow the prompts and choose the “Business” option. If you don’t have a personal account, you can start the process directly from the app by clicking on “Sign Up”. Make sure to use an email address that is associated with your business and choose a username that reflects your brand.
Step 2: Optimize Your Profile
Your Instagram profile is the first thing potential customers will see when they come across your business account. Therefore, it’s essential to make a good first impression. Start by choosing a profile picture that is clear and represents your brand. If you have a logo, use that as your profile picture to make it easily recognizable. Next, fill out your bio with relevant information about your business, including your products or services, website, and any other important details. This is also a good place to use hashtags related to your industry to make your profile more discoverable.
Step 3: Switch to a Business Profile
Now that your business profile is set up, it’s time to switch to a business account. This step is crucial as it unlocks many features that are not available on a personal account. To do this, go to your profile and click on the three lines in the top right corner. Select “Settings” and then “Account”. From there, click on “Switch to Professional Account” and choose the “Business” option. You will be asked to select a category for your business and provide contact information. This will make it easier for potential customers to get in touch with you directly from your Instagram profile.
Step 4: Utilize Instagram Tools
With a business account, you have access to an array of tools that can help you better understand your audience and improve your marketing strategy. One of these tools is Instagram Insights, which provides you with valuable information about your followers, such as their demographics, location, and activity on your profile. This information can help you tailor your content to suit your target audience and increase engagement. You can also use Instagram Ads to reach a larger audience and promote your products or services. Plus, with the recent introduction of Instagram Checkout, you can now sell directly to your followers without them needing to leave the app.
In conclusion, setting up an Instagram business account is a crucial step for any small business or SME looking to establish a strong online presence. By following these simple steps, you can create a professional profile that represents your brand and attracts potential customers. Remember to regularly update your profile with visually appealing content and engage with your followers to build a loyal customer base. With the right strategy and tools, your Instagram business account can be a powerful marketing tool to help your business grow. So what are you waiting for? Get started on setting up your Instagram business account today and take your business to the next level.