You may have caught our last blog, showcasing our five favourite Instagram pages to go follow, created by florists. We hope you enjoyed the pages as much as we did and of course, loved the floral inspiration they provide.
We thought we would go one step further and share some of our favourite Instagram tips this month too. No matter where you are starting, these tips will help you no matter where you are in your Instagram journey, whether you’re new to the app or you’ve been using it for some time.
So, if you’re just after somewhere to start or your account simply needs a refresh, then here we go…
- WHAT IS YOUR REASON FOR HAVING AN INSTAGRAM ACCOUNT?
Ask yourself why you have or want an Instagram account? What is it you want to achieve from having an Instagram account? Do you have a plan in place? What are your objectives from using it? Always ask clients how they discovered you and your flower shop. Keep a record on a spreadsheet and see the most popular ways people are coming to find you. If Instagram appears highly on your list, then you know having the app and investing time into updating the app is worthwhile.
- OPTIMISE YOUR PROFILE
Make sure your profile is the best it can be. Making the right first impression is very important and you often only have seconds to do it. If you already have a page, go and take a look, is the information up to date? Is your profile photo up to date and clear?
- WHY SHOULD PEOPLE FOLLOW YOU?
When planning your content, ask yourself if you are providing valuable content for your audience. Your followers will be looking at your page to find out what is in it for them. You need to make sure when your followers look at your posts or reels, that they feel like it’s worthwhile them coming back to view more.
- INSTAGRAM GRID AND REELS
Focusing on your grid helps to grow your followers and gives your page its overall look and feel. Instagram has recently changed with the introduction of Reels. Reels are a great way to show your creativity with followers getting to know you and your brand.
- CREATE AN IDENTIFIABLE GRID
Don’t worry too much about making sure every single post perfectly fits together with the exact same colour scheme, however take a look at the last handful of images you posted and see if they feel like they belong together. Build up a picture of who you are.
- KEEP YOUR BRAND CONSISTENT
Take a look at your website, other social media account and literature you have. Ask yourself “do they all look like they are from the same company?” Make sure what you are posting all fits and looks consistent.
- PLAN YOUR CONTENT WITH A CALENDAR
Plan in key dates throughout the year, add in your posts for the week and what photos you will use. Planning ahead will help you to feel more in control of your pages and website and will also help with the brand consistency.
- TAKE QUALITY PHOTOS
People like to see quality photos. The better quality you can get your photos the more they will appeal to those viewing them. Take a short course in photography, YouTube photography tips and even hire a photographer for staff photos or special arrangements you are making.
- SHOW THE FLORIST BEHIND THE FLOWERS
People buy from people. Don’t be afraid to show your face by appearing in photos or videos. By seeing and hearing you, people will like and trust the person behind the account.
- SHARE YOUR PAGES
Shout from the rooftops that you are on social media, or have a website. Let your clients know and don’t be afraid to ask for a like or a share. Link your social media to your website and email signature and newsletter.