How to use the new Instagram business profile for your online store

We know Facebook’s business platform has been around for years and Twitter’s business platform has also been around for a while. Now we have Instagram that has launched business-specific profiles and opened their in-app business tools. 

When using Instagram for business, previously it was just through the regular Instagram profiles, and Instagram ads were all run and managed through Facebook. That way of doing Instagram for business is no longer. 

Now, you can create a business profile (linked to your Facebook Business page), see actual analytics on your followers and posts, and create paid ads all within the app.

Instagram Business Profile

This new feature by Instagram has been gradually rolling out to users so don’t worry if you don’t have it yet. It will get to you soon. Additional features have been added to the business profile to help customers connect with your business and also for you to learn about your followers. 

Now there is a ‘contact’ button when tapped, it will list out the ways they can connect with your business. The options available are phone number, email address, and directions to a physical address. Other features are in-app analytics tool that help you see how people are engaging with your business, and a promote post feature. You can find more info on the business tools here: Getting started with Instagram for business.

Creating an account for your business

If you already have an Instagram account for your business, you do not need to create a new one. All you have to do is head over to your profile settings and tap Switch to Business Profile. If you are new to Instagram, here’s how you can get started. 1. Download the Instagram app 2. Sign up using your business email 3. Choose a recognizable username 4. Upload a profile photo 5. Fill in your bio (include the link to your online store) 6. Switch to business profile

Determine your goals

After you have your account set up and ready to go, you need to determine what will you be using Instagram for. There are a lot of ways you can use Instagram. I suggest deciding on the objectives and stay consistent with it. Here are some examples of goals.

• Show internal company culture
• Feature your customers and how they use your product
• Provide value-added content to your audience
• To generate leads to your online store

Types of content you can post

Product-centric - Post images of your products and how it’s being used in different ways. People are visual and seeing your products in action really helps. Customer-centric - Create stories around your customers. Your audience will be attracted emotionally. Employee-centric - Post photos of your fun office environment and the people in it. This shows that there are real people behind your business.

Motivational posts - Help motivate people to become better. This also shows your values. Videos - Mix it up with videos of your products. This will really attract people. Giveaways/contest - A great way to encourage interactions and gain more followers. Have your followers share with their friends.

Building a following

What’s the point of uploading all those content if no one sees it? When you’re just starting out, it can be a bit depressing. You need to build a following of people who are interested in your content. There are many ways to do that. You can include relevant and popular #hashtags in your posts. When people search for those keywords, your post will appear. You get more exposure if you use hashtags in your posts. Another way is to ‘Like’ hundreds of random pictures from people in your target audience. This will get their attention and follow your profile. There are lots more other ways to gain more followers for your business. We want to make your life easier so we have compiled 21 ways your business can get more Instagram followers.

Integrating Instagram Feed On Your EasyStore

This is a great way to get more exposure to your products and your brand, providing your visitors with more options to view more product photos, rather than just pictures shown at your online store.  It is simple to use which helps to enhance your homepage’s content!

Check out how to integrate your Instagram feed on your EasyStore

And here are some examples of our merchant’s using the Instagram feed:

• Kamaroan

• Brown & Sugar

• JOBBIE NUT BUTTER

• Your Scent Station

• kick-boxer.MY

• Moira's Boutique

• 9 Familee Towel Wholesale

• VDiva Artistry

• Finders Keepers KL

• CSMAKEUP MY

• Her Sexy Lingeries

• Ferrarossa Pearluxe Eyeshadow

Conclusion

Instagram is a growing channel that allows you to grow and show that there are real people behind your brand, showcase your product, company culture, delight customers, and generate new business. Let’s give it a shot. Create a profile for your business and start having fun while working on your business.