Social media star Jessie Sims is making waves on Instagram and has learned the best ways to engage new followers from experience. Whether it’s promoting a brand or becoming an influencer, getting and keeping followers on Instagram requires more than periodically posting pictures and videos. You can’t sit back and wait for other Instagram users to discover your content on their own.
Launched in 2010 and owned by Facebook, Instagram is a popular photo and video sharing platform. Users can use Instagram to connect with their customers and target new audiences. The platform also boasts several visual marketing features that make it easy to post relevant and exciting photos and videos.
After moving to Los Angeles in 2016 to pursue a career in modeling, Sims soon found out that to be successful she’d have to grow a virtual following. Since she started putting more work into her social media presence, Sims has garnered over 710k followers on her Instagram and only continues to grow. She shares her top three tips for growing your personal brand on IG and connecting with your audience.
Consistency is Crucial
Not only do you need to post new content regularly, preferably on a set schedule, but it should also be the type of images your followers expect. Consistently posting the same types of images whether it’s tutorial videos on makeup application or brand promotion, users can become disengaged if the tone and content are constantly changing.
Consistency doesn’t mean that you can’t experiment with your content. For example, posting behind-the-scene videos engage followers and can bring new ones in. To ensure you are always posting engaging content, consider working with a professional photographer. A professional can take advantage of lighting, angles, and even backgrounds to ensure your images attract attention and grow your following on Instagram. If you are planning on hiring a photographer, look for one with a solid reputation. Sims notes that you shouldn’t be afraid to ask questions or leave the shoot if you’re uncomfortable.
Take advantage of Instagram’s features
Instagram has made it easier for users to build up a following with the platform’s innovative features. You can use IGTV for marketing or create an influencer channel. The short programs
help keep followers engaged, and with the right hashtags can also attract new followers. The Reels feature is a great way to create entertaining videos, and the stories function is ideal for posting short content that is only up for 24 hours.
Using Reels, IGTV, and stories, along with photos helps keep your posts exciting, entertaining, and fresh. Even loyal followers will eventually move on to other sites if yours only shows the same still photos day after day. While consistency in your topic is ideal, you do want to mix up the content you post.
Post content that’s true to you
It’s tempting to post content that you think other users on Instagram want to see. It might work once or twice, and there may even be a jump in views for a while. However, the increase in followers rarely lasts if the content your posting isn’t true to you or your brand. You can even lose established followers if they feel the content doesn’t reflect the real you.
Posting relevant content that also reflects who you are is a little daunting. Not everyone is comfortable putting themselves online for everyone on the platform to see. If you are marketing a brand, post images and videos of you and others using the product. Don’t be afraid to post your mistakes, along with the successes. This also applies to social media influencers. The idea is to make your viewers see you as approachable and “one of them.” On social media, Sims has shown herself to be a fun-loving women with knack for comedy and pranks who knows how to work her angles. Her instagram posts exude body positivity and self love that’s infectious to anyone that stumbles on her page.
Don’t Be Afraid to Try Something New
Having a presence on Instagram will open you up to new experiences. Don’t be afraid to try something new if the opportunity arises. It may be filming a short video with a professional photographer or an invitation to an event. Social media influencers are often invited to concerts, restaurants, and even cool locations so they can share their experiences with their followers. Take advantage of these and other opportunities. You never know where it could lead to next.
