If you’ve ever asked yourself, “What should I post on Instagram to attract more followers?” you’re in the right place. This is one of the most common questions for anyone trying to grow their presence on Instagram. Whether you’re a brand, an influencer, or just someone who wants to increase their follower count, knowing what to post can make all the difference.
In this article, I’m going to share proven strategies that will help you create content that not only attracts followers but also keeps them engaged.
Understanding the Basics: What Type of Content Works Best on Instagram?
Before diving into specifics, it’s essential to understand the basics: What type of content works best on Instagram? Instagram is a visual platform, so naturally, the content you post needs to be visually appealing. But there’s more to it than just pretty pictures. You need to post content that resonates with your audience and provides value.
One of the first questions I often hear is, “Should I focus on photos, videos, or Reels?” The truth is, a mix of all three is your best bet. Instagram’s algorithm favors accounts that use a variety of content types. Photos are great for sharing beautiful, static images. Videos allow you to dive deeper into a topic, and Reels can help you reach a wider audience since they’re prioritized in the Explore tab.
How Often Should I Post on Instagram?
Another frequently asked question is, “How often should I post on Instagram?” Posting frequency can vary depending on your goals and audience. However, consistency is key. A Later study found that accounts that post daily see the highest growth in followers. That said, it’s not just about quantity—quality is equally important.
When planning your posts, consider creating a content calendar. This helps you stay organized and ensures you’re posting consistently. For example, you could dedicate Mondays to motivational quotes, Wednesdays to product features, and Fridays to behind-the-scenes content. This approach keeps your feed fresh and gives your audience something to look forward to.
What Kind of Posts Attract Followers on Instagram?
Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter: What kind of posts attract followers on Instagram? This is the million-dollar question, and the answer lies in understanding your audience. Here are some types of content that have been proven to attract followers:
- Behind-the-Scenes Content: People love getting a glimpse behind the curtain. Whether you’re a business or an individual, sharing behind-the-scenes content humanizes your brand and builds a deeper connection with your audience. This could be a look at your daily routine, the process of creating a product, or even a sneak peek of upcoming projects.
- User-Generated Content (UGC): UGC is powerful because it’s authentic and relatable. Encourage your followers to share their experiences with your brand or product and repost their content. This not only provides you with fresh content but also strengthens your community.
- Educational Content: Posts that educate your audience on topics related to your niche are incredibly valuable. This could be how-to guides, tips, or even infographics. For instance, if you’re in the fitness niche, you could post workout routines or nutrition tips. Educational content positions you as an expert in your field and attracts followers interested in learning more.
- Contests and Giveaways: Contests and giveaways are a surefire way to attract more followers. Everyone loves free stuff, and when you offer something of value, people are more likely to follow you and engage with your content. Make sure to include clear instructions, such as “Follow our account, like this post, and tag a friend” to maximize participation.
- Trending Content: Keeping up with trends is essential on Instagram. Whether it’s a trending hashtag, challenge, or meme, jumping on trends can help your content go viral. However, make sure the trend aligns with your brand’s values and message. Authenticity is key, even when following trends.
How Can I Use Instagram Stories to Attract More Followers?
You might be wondering, “How can I use Instagram Stories to attract more followers?” Instagram Stories are an excellent tool for engaging with your audience and attracting new followers. Unlike regular posts, Stories are temporary and often feel more spontaneous and personal.
One effective strategy is to use interactive features like polls, quizzes, and question stickers. These features encourage your audience to engage with your content, and the more they interact, the more likely your account is to be discovered by others. Another tip is to use location tags and hashtags in your Stories. This makes your Stories discoverable by people who don’t already follow you.
I’ve personally seen a significant increase in follower count when I started using Stories more consistently. For example, sharing daily tips or updates through Stories has helped me connect with my audience on a more personal level, leading to higher engagement and more followers.
What Role Do Hashtags Play in Attracting Instagram Followers?
Another common question is, “What role do hashtags play in attracting Instagram followers?” Hashtags are essential for getting your content discovered by people who aren’t following you yet. They categorize your posts and make them searchable to users interested in those topics.
However, not all hashtags are created equal. Instead of using generic hashtags with millions of posts, like #love or #instagood, opt for niche hashtags that are more specific to your content. For example, if you’re a travel blogger, use hashtags like #solotravel or #travelwithme. This way, your content reaches a more targeted audience that is likely to follow you.
A good rule of thumb is to use a mix of popular, moderate, and niche hashtags. Instagram allows up to 30 hashtags per post, but studies suggest that using 9-11 hashtags is the sweet spot for maximizing reach and engagement.
How Can I Leverage Instagram Reels to Attract Followers?
Instagram Reels have quickly become one of the most powerful tools for attracting new followers. So, “How can I leverage Instagram Reels to attract followers?” Reels are short, engaging videos that Instagram pushes out to a broader audience, even to people who don’t follow you.
To make the most of Reels, focus on creating content that is entertaining, educational, or inspiring. Reels are a great way to showcase your personality and creativity. Whether it’s a quick tutorial, a day-in-the-life video, or a funny skit, the key is to be authentic and relatable.
I started incorporating Reels into my content strategy, and the growth was almost immediate. My follower count increased, and my engagement rates soared. Reels have the potential to go viral, so don’t hesitate to experiment and see what resonates with your audience.
Final Thoughts: Crafting Your Instagram Success Story
Let me wrap this up with a story that illustrates the power of knowing what to post on Instagram. A few years ago, I was managing a small business account that was struggling to gain followers. We had a beautiful product, but our posts just weren’t attracting the attention we wanted. After doing some research, we decided to revamp our content strategy.
We started posting behind-the-scenes content, sharing educational posts, and running contests. We also made sure to use a mix of trending and niche hashtags. Slowly but surely, our follower count began to climb. But the real turning point came when we started leveraging Instagram Reels. Our Reels consistently reached thousands of people, many of whom became followers.
One day, we received a message from a new follower who told us they had discovered our brand through one of our Reels and had since become a loyal customer. That’s when it hit me—the content we were posting wasn’t just attracting followers; it was building a community. And that’s the true power of Instagram.
Now, it’s your turn to take these strategies and apply them to your own Instagram journey. Remember, attracting followers is not just about the numbers; it’s about creating content that resonates with people and keeps them coming back for more.