How to make the most of Instagram

Tips from Social Media Maven, Sue Zimmerman (@theinstagramexpert) on how to get the most out of your Instagram account!

If you aren't familiar with Sue Zimmerman, let me introduce you to her! She IS the Instagram expert. No, really. I mean it. Her handle is actually @TheInstagramExpert.

This week, I had the opportunity to attend one of her educational sessions at Compass' entrepreneurial series (#CompassREtreat). Her hour-long session provided easy and actionable recommendations on how you can increase your Instagram reach (aka the number of people who see your stuff)!

Here's the skinny...

Business vs. Personal

Get serious and setup two accounts for each of your identities. Keep your personal account personal; and let your business account reflect and project your business values and brand personality.

Maximize Your Profile

Name: When selecting a username for your account, DO NOT include numbers! Keep it simple, easily searchable and recognizable. If the name you'd like to select is already taken, then consider adding "The" in beginning, a middle initial, an underscore, a period, or the city you reside at the end.

Avatar: If you are your brand, then try to avoid logos (unless your logo is clean and easily understood). If you are an entrepreneur and the face of your brand - then display yourself! Just ensure that you have a professional quality photo that is memorable and recognizable.

Bio: It should be clear and informative. This is perhaps the MOST important aspect of your profile. Because the bio is the only place that allows for SEO.

• SEO: Include relevant searchable terms, industry keywords, that make it clear what you offer. For example, "Top Luxury Realestate Agent in Washington, D.C."

• CTA (Call To Action): A good bio should also include a strong CTA. Tell people what you want them to do. For example, "leave a comment," "use our hashtag," or "visit our website."

• Bio Link: Another integral component of your bio is your link. You need a link to drive your visitors and traffic to your desired destination. Therefore, include one link and make the most of it! There are a few ways to approach your link. First, you could include a direct link to your company business website, facebook page, or another specific webpage. Just be sure that the link isn't too long. If it is (or it's too hard to easily recall), consider using a custom bitly link. Another option is to create a Linktree. Linktree provides you with a unique URL to list in your Instagram profile. When users click on it, they will be led to your personal linktree site with multiple links available. The visitor can select to link to either your website, blog, twitter, facebook, pinterest, or any profile page, etc.

Pro Tip: Use Apple Notes to create your bio text. Notes will allow you to incorporate hard returns or specific character spacing.

Change it Up!

Instagram has multiple ways you can post: photos, video, carousel posts, stories and live streaming. Use them all to have the biggest impact and broadest appeal.

Create Great Visuals

The images you choose to post should directly align with the descriptions of your business and interests. Avoid blurry photos or bad lighting. Consider using any of the multiple filters available to alter images. But when altering photos, its recommended that you stick to a consistent visual theme. Maintaining a theme helps you "appear more professional, solidifies branding, and often leads to faster follower growth," says Sue Zimmernan.

Pro Tip: Use apps like VSCO and Canva to create great images and posts.

Grow Your Audience

• Engage: The more you interact with others, the more they will interact with you. Start off by following to 200 people, regularly liking their posts, and leaving genuine comments.

• Hashtags: Use a variety of specific hashtags and avoid "widely popular ones." Select hashtags that your target customers would likely use. You can use up to 30 hashtags, but be sure to include at least one hashtag that is unique to your business. Like #amagazinelife.

Consistency is Key

Posting regularly is essential to maintaining visibility.

Pro Tip: Use a posting scheduler like Planoly.