One of the best ways to market your brand and interact with clients is through an Instagram account for your small business. It’s no secret that social media marketing is important, and Instagram is one of the most prominent social media platforms for businesses.
It only takes a few simple steps to set up a business account for Instagram. Once your new account is created, you can start using Instagram’s advertising features to effectively reach your target market, build brand recognition, and increase traffic to your website or place of business.
Instagram advertising offers a variety of ad styles and targeting choices, making it a very effective way to market your business and expand your client base. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of setting up an Instagram for Business account so you can start promoting on the platform and reaching more customers.
What is a Business Account on Instagram?
In addition to all of the standard Instagram features, like photo sharing and social networking, you can access additional free business tools with an Instagram Business account, including:
- Analytics that can provide you insight into Instagram users who are engaged with your brand.
- Access to the Instagram-curated professional dashboard, where you can keep track of your progress, find and use other professional tools–like advertising options–and explore educational resources.
- The option to display or disable your profile’s business category and contact details.
Before we begin
For businesses wishing to create a presence on the Instagram network, creating an Instagram Business account is an essential first step. You can use it to gain access to a variety of tools and services designed specifically for businesses, like Instagram Insights and the capacity to run advertisements.
You must either register a new Instagram account or use an existing Instagram account in order to set up an Instagram Business account. Keep in mind that there is a five-account limit for Instagram users, but you can also convert an existing personal profile into a business account to access these additional business tools.
Step-By-Step Instructions to Create an Instagram Business Account
When you’re ready to create your Instagram Business account and start using the features of the platform to expand your business, just follow these steps on the Instagram mobile app:
- Open your profile and tap the icon with three lines in the upper-right corner.
- From the menu, select “Settings and privacy”. If available, choose “Switch to professional account”. Otherwise, tap “Account type and tools” and then select “Switch to professional account”.
- Tap “Continue” (you may need to tap it multiple times as Instagram previews the features of a professional account).
- Choose a category and decide whether to show it on your profile using the slider. Tap “Done” when finished.
- Select “Business” (or “Creator” if applicable) and tap “Next”.
- Use the slider to opt in or out of promotional emails from Instagram for professional accounts, then tap “Next”.
- Add or edit relevant contact details and decide whether to display your contact information on your profile using the slider. Tap “Next” (or skip this step by selecting “Don’t use my contact info”).
- If you want to connect your Instagram business account with a Facebook business page, follow the prompts to link your account. Note: This step is necessary for using Instagram shopping features or running ads.
- Finally, close the window by tapping the “X” in the top left corner to return to your new Instagram Business profile.
Once set up, gather feedback from your audience using a unique hashtag to understand their preferences and improve your offerings. You’ll also have access to special features like the professional dashboard, in-app ad development, and shopping tools.
Tips to Increase Instagram Followers and Profile Visibility
One important way to increase the visibility of your posts is by using three or more relevant hashtags that describe your brand, product, or service. This helps you connect with potential customers who may not be familiar with your specific business yet. Consider promoting your best content through advertisements, location-based targeting, and similar interests, for example.
To expand your Instagram following, use objectives like “More Profile Visits” or “More Messages” for your ads. This can attract more followers and increases engagement. Engage with your audience by responding to comments and messages, and collaborating with other brands. Use Instagram Reels to showcase your creativity and take part in trends or create your own to captivate your audience.
To reach more customers and subscribers on Instagram for your business, optimize your profile with a clear brand identity and contact information. Share high-quality content regularly using engaging visuals, captions, and relevant hashtags. Interact with your followers, collaborate with influencers, and utilize Instagram features like Stories and live videos. Leverage targeted advertising and analyze metrics to refine your strategy and increase customer reach.
Common Problems When Setting Up Your Instagram Business Account
Setting up an Instagram Business account is crucial for establishing a social media presence for your brand. However, various challenges can arise when setting up an account that can prevent you from effectively using the platform to market your business.
Below are some of the most common problems that you may face when setting up a business account and tips on how to avoid them.
Connecting to a Facebook business page if you are not an admin
If you are not an admin of the Facebook business page that you want to connect to your Instagram account, you may encounter difficulties connecting the two. It is important to ensure that you have admin access to your Facebook page before linking it to your Instagram account.
Verifying your account if you do not have a valid phone number or email
Verifying your Instagram account is a crucial step in setting up your business account on Instagram. However, if you do not have a valid business phone number or email, you may experience difficulties verifying your account. Ensure that you have access to valid business contact information before beginning the verification process.
Creating a unique username if it is already taken
Creating a unique username can be challenging, especially if your desired username is already taken. To avoid this problem, come up with several username options before creating your account.
Creating a complete profile if you do not have a business logo or website
A complete profile is essential for establishing your brand’s identity on Instagram. However, if you do not have a business logo or website, you may experience difficulties completing your profile. Consider creating a logo or website before setting up your business account for Instagram.
Reaching the target audience if your account is not discovered
If your account is not easily discoverable, it can be challenging to reach your target audience. To avoid this problem, optimize your profile and use relevant hashtags to make your account more discoverable.
Difficulty with the Instagram algorithm if you do not have enough engagement on your post
If you do not have enough engagement on your posts, the Instagram algorithm may limit your reach. To avoid this problem, engage with your followers and create high-quality content that encourages engagement.
Difficulty with Instagram policies if you violate any of their rules
Instagram has strict policies and guidelines that all users must follow. Violating these rules can result in difficulties in setting up and maintaining a business account for Instagram. Ensure that you are familiar with Instagram’s policies before setting up your account.
Difficulty with Instagram’s business tools if you are not familiar with them
Finally, you may experience difficulties using Instagram’s business tools if you are not familiar with them. To avoid this problem, take the time to learn about Instagram’s business tools and how they can benefit your brand before you launch your new business profile.
How Business Owners Can Make Money Through Instagram Ads
Developing successful Instagram advertisements calls for a strategic approach and careful consideration of a number of elements. Identify your target market before designing Instagram adverts. This is essential for both old and new businesses.
Create a thorough customer persona that takes demographics, interests, and behaviors into account. You will be able to create advertisements that are more likely to connect with your target audience as a result. Utilize Instagram targeting options to reach the correct audience. These options include geography, age, gender, hobbies, and behaviors.
Employ appealing language in your ad copy to increase the efficacy of your advertising even further. Encourage visitors to take action, whether it’s visiting your website or making a purchase. Use high-quality graphics and videos in your adverts as well to draw consumers in and increase interaction.
Try out the several ad formats that Instagram offers, including carousel ads, story ads, video ads, and photo ads. Test various approaches to find the one that works best for your company by posting content. Track and evaluate the effectiveness of your efforts regularly. Monitor indicators such as reach, engagement, audience insights, and conversion rates.
Ensure that your visual and spoken messaging is consistent throughout all of your adverts and posts. This consistency strengthens your messaging and creates a cohesive brand identity. Observe Instagram’s newest features, including IGTV, Reels, Instagram Stories, and IG Live. Make use of these features since they offer more chances for engagement and reach.
Last but not least, make sure your advertising adheres to Instagram’s rules. To prevent any potential problems or interruptions to your campaigns, familiarize yourself with their rules. These recommendations are everything you need to help you make engaging and effective Instagram ads.
Use Instagram’s Advertising Tools for Business Growth
Optimizing, monitoring, and analyzing your campaigns is essential for continuous success. To evaluate the effectiveness of your ads, keep a close eye on metrics like reach, engagement, and conversion rates. You may improve your strategy and make more informed decisions to get better outcomes by frequently analyzing your results.
The secret to your Instagram advertisements and posts is consistency. Building brand awareness and audience trust requires a consistent visual aesthetic and messaging. Keeping up with Instagram’s new features offers opportunities to interact with your audience in unique and engaging ways.
You can develop effective and engaging Instagram advertisements by following these guidelines. And if you feel like you could use more guidance, connect with our list of top-rated social media agencies to optimize your Instagram business account and run successful Instagram ads. This will enable you to use Instagram’s marketing power to engage your audience and produce significant results for your company.
FAQs
What is the difference between a creator and business account on Instagram?
An Instagram creator account can be the ideal option for you if you’re interested in developing your personal brand and don’t directly sell things or employ sophisticated analytics. An Instagram Business account is beneficial if you are running a retail firm, eCommerce brand, nonprofit, or other commercial organization. This type of account is more suitable for managing these types of organizations.
Can I create a business Instagram account without a personal account?
In fact, you don’t need a personal Instagram account to start a business account. Just select “Create a Business Account” on Instagram to accomplish this. You will then be required to provide the name of your company, contact information, and other pertinent information.
Can you have a personal and business Instagram account?
Absolutely! Instagram allows users to have up to five multiple accounts. You can create a separate account for your business. This way, you can keep your personal account and business account separate.
Can my business have more than one account?
Yes, it is possible for a business to have more than one Instagram account. To create multiple Instagram accounts for your business, you can go to Instagram’s settings and select “Add Account.” From there, you can create additional accounts using different email addresses or connect them to different Facebook pages.