Instagram 101: How to Lay the Foundation For Success on the Gram

You’ve started an Instagram for your business, but now you’re sitting at your phone thinking “now what?” Your blank profile is stressing you out, you have no idea what to put in your bio, wondering if you need to dance and then you're probably wondering what the heck is a highlight?

Before you worry about your social media strategy, video content, or growing followers, you need to put in a strong foundation. Here’s how:

1. Start with the settings

First things first, go to settings > privacy and ensure your account is set as Public. If it isn’t, potential clients can’t discover you! Next, quickly tap over to Account and check that you’re set up as either a Business or Creator account. This ensures you’ll have access to insights – and you absolutely want access to that data.

2. Upload a profile photo

Your profile photo may be small, but it’s still important to use that space to invite people in and introduce yourself.?

If you are at all client-facing in your business, I highly recommend using a headshot-style photo of yourself. Don’t have a professional one - do this??

Get a tripod (or DIY one out of books or pots and pans), stand in front of a wall, and use an app like Lensa. Lensa will take multiple selfies on a timer for you.

[I used Lensa to make these pics]

Then upload the photo to Canva. Remove the background. Add a solid color. And, if you'd like, add an outline to your photo. Voila! You will seriously love it!

If your business doesn’t involve YOU then use a logo or biz name in the profile photo to make it clear what your page is about. A lack of a profile photo can make your account seem like a bot.?

3. Set Up Your Bio

This is how I like to formulate a bio:

-a super clear statement that explains what you do

-your services/product offerings

-include a call to action to entice people to click on your link in bio?

4. Maximize that link space

Either have the link go directly to your lead magnet OR use a tool like Linktree or Canva to set up a list of links.

I used the Canva option, here's how to do it - quick video here.

And this is what it looks like ??

5. Set up your highlights

Stories may only last for 24 hours, but highlights are forever (well, as long as you keep them live!) These small circles are at the top of your Instagram feed and are a great way to give potential followers a way to introduce them to key parts of your business.?

Here are the highlights I recommend having on your profile:

?Start Here: explaining more about you & what you do

?Services/Products: let them know what you offer

?BTS: save stories of you working

?Testimonials: social proof is key

Of course, the Highlight covers can be made in Canva.

And now you’re set!

I know it’s easy to want to take off running to IG land, but without the basics, you’ll struggle to build your platform and attract clients.

Set aside 30 minutes and check this off your list.

????,

Becca

P.S. Grab 36 FREE social media prompts here

P.P.S Prefer a one and done ?? 'pick my brain' sesh? I offer a LinkedIn friends discount here