#FAIL: 5 Things You are Doing Wrong on Instagram
We hope we have you convinced by now that your dealership should be on Instagram and that it’s important to your brand development. The insane growth of the app presents a great opportunity to define your brand and increase your presence on the mobile network. With over 400 million users worldwide, Instagram has now surpassed Twitter as the largest mobile photo-sharing app in the world.
Considering the amount of active Instagram users, it should be easy to collect a significant following in your area with some simple hashtags and nice pictures–but your dealership account can’t seem to break 10 Likes or increase followers. Instagram is so much more than a Valencia filter and #yeg. Let us help you get past the 5 mistakes you might be making and that you don’t want to throwback to.
- Not Having an Optimized Profile
When a customer searches for your brand, there is nothing worse than for them to land on a private account. This makes your brand appear closed and selective, and customers do not want to be granted permission to view what you have to offer. Public accounts allow you to be easily accessible and approachable, and give them a visual glimpse of your brand.
It’s also important to fill in the Bio section of your profile. Use keywords to help customers find you, and include your website to encourage visits and leads.
- Misusing Hashtags
Maybe you aren’t using enough hashtags for interested customers to find you, and this means fewer interactions with your posts. More hashtags equals more Likes and comments, and Instagram allows up to 30 hashtags per image. Start by testing 5 different hashtags per post until you’ve collected a significant amount of tags to use in every post and guarantee results.
- Only Posting & Not Engaging
Like on Facebook, users on Instagram want a glimpse into your brand, and to interact with whatever posts interest them. By replying to comments on your posts, you are demonstrating you’re a dealership that’s excited and committed to customer interaction and service.
- Too Promotional
Instagram is a great platform to promote any deals and specials running at your dealership. However, your profile should not be cluttered with promotional images that overshadow any of the personal content you post. Limit promotional posts to once a week, or get in touch with our team to start Instagram Advertising.
- Not Having a Plan
Like with other marketing tools you use at your dealership, always have a plan for what outcomes and goals you want to achieve through Instagram. Is it to promote a lifestyle or community engagement? Avoid random posting, but also make sure you have a consistent schedule for when and what content you plan to post to your account.
A picture is worth a thousand words, and we can ensure these words are being heard. Instagram is not your grandparents’ social network, and you can turn hashtags into dollars for your dealership. Contact Strathcom Media today to find out what we can do to improve your Instagram presence!
