Wondering how those shining Instagrammers amass hundreds of thousands of fans? Growing a fan base on Instagram isn’t rocket science, but it does take time, dedication, and consistency. If you’re looking to build your Instagram following, use these tips.

1. Create a cohesive theme by using the same editing style

Close your eyes and visualize this – you’re sitting on your couch, surfing through your Instagram. You come across the typical selfie, vacation inspiration, and maybe the occasional #OOTD. Suddenly, one picture, in particular, catches your eye. You click on the profile and notice that all the posts are aesthetically pleasing, so you ‘follow,’ eager to be inspired.

If a picture says a thousand words, an Instagram theme says a million. Instagram themes transform individual pictures into a unified brand. From a business standpoint, a theme visually indicates the mood and personality of your brand. It allows followers to not only focus their attention on a singular photo but your account as a whole. Try using editing apps like Lightroom or VSCO Cam to find a filter that speaks to your brand, and use that filter for almost every photo. This will ensure all of your photos have a similar feel to them. 

Soar Client: @XhaleLuxuryVilla 

2. Use hashtags with every photo

The proper and strategic use of hashtags is key to growing an Instagram following. It allows you to categorize content to appeal to a certain user’s interests, depending on what community you want to target. Your goal should be to build a fan base of followers that are interested and loyal to the content you share. Just like any good thing, hashtags have cycles, so be sure to do your research. While #LoveToTravel used to be unique, #PassionPassport is more trendy. Start by analyzing brands that are similar to yours and determine what kind of hashtags they use.

Next, look at influencers related to your industry and analyze the hashtags they use. Make a document of all of the hashtags you’ve gathered and rotate between them with each photo. You’ll quickly be able to gauge which tags are most effective by measuring your likes and comments.

3. Be consistent – your followers want to know what to expect

On average users follow 822 Instagram accounts. This means you’re competing with at least 821 other accounts, along with millions of other accounts to try to stay relevant. Focus on consistently posting the same type of content. As we say at Soar, find your niche and own it! Instagram is about inspiring users so keeping to a schedule will let your fans know that you have committed to inspiring them regularly. Also, consider posting about the same type of content to help your fans know what to expect.

4. Use stories on a weekly basis to stay relevant

A report by CNBC stated that within less than a year of the introduction of Instagram stories, it has already surpassed Snapchat in terms of daily users. As of June Snapchat has 166 million daily users, while Instagram has 250 million daily users. Instagram stories increase visibility with your community of followers and enable you to stay relevant. With different colours, filters, text, stickers, and formats, it’s a fun way to connect with your audience.

5. Be a part of the Instagram community

Posting on Instagram isn’t enough, you need to be a part of the community. Start by liking and commenting on posts that are similar to yours. Since you both have similar content, targeted consumers will see your brand name appear under likes or comments, providing free exposure.

Next, search for the most popular hashtags related to your content. Like the photos that appear and follow the users who shared the post. Your activity on Instagram (liking, commenting, following) is a direct way to connect with consumers or peers. It’s also important to build a fan base of individuals that have similar interests to you—this tells the algorithm what your page is about. The more your fans like and comment on your photo, the more they increase the chance of your content appearing on the ‘Discover’ page—a direct way to reach users who resemble your fan base. 

6. Host giveaways

Who doesn’t love a good giveaway?! Giveaways are a great way to reward your fans, and grow at the same time. Choose a product, gift card, or experience related to your niche as the prize. Then make following your account an entry method. Be cautious not to do this too often as it can get spammy. You should also triple-check the contest regulations in your province or state as there can be hefty fines if not run properly.

If your account has under 10,000 followers, try partnering with a like-minded brand or individual. This will help cross-promote both of you and boost awareness of the contest. You can also list your contest on contest-listing websites. We do suggest using this promotion tactic sparingly though; the goal is to get engaged followers, not users who just want free stuff!