CONNECT WITH YOUR FOLLOWERS
Instagram is all about connection. Connecting with your followers and building relationships with them is KEY. That’s why you have to invite them in! It’s like inviting people over to your house and not being there! People want to see your home, but they also want to see you! Invite them in and show them the real you! Show them your personality, your dreams, and your beautiful face! The world wants to see you, not just your work!
When I was first told this I felt a little stuck. How do I show up? How do I show myself? If you feel that way too, then you’ve come to the right place!
Today I’m gonna give you five practical ways that you can show up and connect with your followers!
show your face
Post a photo of yourself and give a little introduction! Some amazing photographers and educators Evie Rupp and Lindsey Roman recommend having at least one photo of yourself in ever nine photo grid. Those are the photos someone will first see when they check out your profile. I know it’ll be a little bit uncomfortable putting yourself out there, but you’ve got this!!!
Show up in your stories
Posts aren’t the only place you need to show your face! Start putting your face in your story and start TALKING! AGHHH that’s terrifying, I know. At first you may feel a little awkward but you’ll get the hang of it. Just pretend like you’re talking to your best friend on facetime! Take people behind the scenes, tell them a bit about your life, or ask them inviting questions!
forget the fancy talk
If you’re only talking like a stiff business, it’s going to be hard to connect. Instead try writing just like you talk! If you’re a loud expressive person like I am, don’t be afraid to use all the exclamation marks and all caps! If you’re more quiet and aren’t super wordy, then write those simple and beautiful captions! Write in a way that shows YOU! Make it short and sweet, or long and poetic! Just be yourself <3.
Interact with your followers
When you receive comments on your posts, reply to them! When people reply to your stories or DM you, reply! Showing up and interacting with your followers shows them that you see them and you care about them! Sometimes I even like to hop on their profiles and reply to their stories or comment on their posts. Do what you can to communicate and show up.
INvite them in
Ask questions in your captions or in your stories! Provide interactive content that invites your followers to respond! Have a poll, a question box, or a call to action. Interaction will not only boost your Instagram, but it will also draw them in and prompt them to interact. People love to interact with you if you give them the opportunity!
One thing I want to add is that doing these things won’t necessarily immediately get you interaction or connection. If your followers aren’t used to commenting or responding, they may not right away. However, showing up for your followers regularly will help you grow and connect! You’ve got this! I believe in you!
Xx Meghan :)
