Instagram originally started with only static posts, but today there are 10 different types of tools that can be used to post content. Having so many tools gives you the power to engage with the audience in multiple ways and thus build a community you can leverage on. In this blog, we’ll understand how each of these tools function and how small businesses can use them to engage with their followers.
1.Image Posts — Initially, image posts were the only posts available. They were great to depict a story or convey a message. Even today, these image posts are popular however now they are more than just a single post, multiple posts can be coordinated to represent a similar pattern, scheme or theme. This can help you create a brand image and recognition.
2.Carousels — Carousels are slideshows in which you can add multiple photos and videos. One carousel can carry up to 10 images/videos. These are a great way to narrate a series of events or stories.
3. Feed Videos — Feed videos are videos that appear on the feed and are up to 60 seconds long. Currently they are the post unpopular as they generate less engagement. Businesses can opt to steer clear of these unless absolutely required.
4. IGTV Videos — IGTV videos are videos that are up to 15 minutes long, while some larger accounts also get the option to make up to 60 minutes long videos. These videos also have an option to create a 15 seconds preview that would appear on the explore feed 4 times larger than the other posts, thus boosting its odds of getting clicked. For interviews, or other longer content, this is an excellent tool.
5.Reels — Reels is a new feature launched by Instagram, these are videos that were initially up to 5 seconds long but now come with a limit of 30 seconds. These short videos are great for grabbing attention and currently have the highest organic reach on Instagram. Hence they should definitely be tried by anyone trying to increase their reach on IG
6.IG Stories — These Stories appear right on top of your Instagram feed. They are 15 long and disappear after 24 hours. Stories are a great way to engage with your audience on a daily basis. However, it is essential to remember not to spam your followers.
7.Story Highlights — Instagram now gives you an option to group and store your stories permanently on your profile through story highlights. You can group similar stories posted at different timelines to create an embedded story highlight. For example, customer reviews posted at different times can together be saved as a story highlight.
8.Instagram Live — Instagram live, though underrated is a great feature to interact with your followers. Live, now also has an option to add people to it. Going live adds a whole lot of authenticity to your brand as customers would not just get a name but a face, a person that they can trust or relate the brand with. Hence, it is definitely a feature that small businesses should be looking out for.
9.Augmented Reality — These are the AR filters, these are not as popular among brands as most brands do not realise how easy it can be to create a filter of their own. Filters once created can be accessed by anyone on the platform. So, people can actually use and engage with your filters thus increasing your brand awareness and visibility.
10.Guides — Guides is the newest addition to Instagram’s features. Guides are a collection of your pre-existing posts. They act as a list of related posts that users can go through.
