The 7 commandments of Instagram to grow organically

Instagram isn't just about posting pretty pictures; it's about building genuine connections, understanding your audience, and embracing the platform's dynamic nature. Whether you're a brand looking to boost your presence or an individual aiming to make your mark, these 7 commandments will guide you toward a genuine Instagram presence. Follow them diligently, and watch your engagement flourish naturally.

1. You won't buy followers

Buying followers might seem like a quick fix to boost your numbers, but it does more harm than good. Fake followers won't engage with your content, and Instagram's algorithms can detect this, potentially penalizing your account. Genuine engagement from real followers is the key to long-term success.

2. You won't be scared of following the trends

Instagram trends can change quickly, and jumping on them can give your content a significant boost. Whether it's a new feature like Reels or a viral challenge, participating in trends shows your audience that you're active and in touch with the latest happenings. Just make sure the trends align with your brand's voice and values.

3. Assume that you won't be able to control when a post goes viral

Virality is unpredictable. Instead of obsessing over which post might blow up, focus on consistently creating high-quality content. When you least expect it, a post might resonate with a larger audience, leading to increased visibility and engagement.

4. You will take inspiration but you won't copy and paste

It's great to draw inspiration from other creators, but outright copying isn't cool. Put your unique spin on ideas and give credit where it's due. Authenticity is crucial on Instagram, and your followers will appreciate your originality.

5. Create content for your audience, not for your ego

Remember, Instagram is about your audience, not just about you. Understand their interests, needs, and preferences. Tailor your content to provide value, entertain, or solve a problem for them. When your audience feels seen and valued, they're more likely to engage and stick around.

6. You will be more consistent than with your cups of tea (don't spam)

Consistency is key to maintaining a strong presence on Instagram. Develop a posting schedule that you can stick to, whether it's daily, a few times a week, or weekly. However, avoid spamming your followers with too many posts in a short period. Quality over quantity is the mantra here.

7. You will choose video over other formats

Video content, especially short-form video, is king on Instagram. According to a Socialinsider Study, reels have an engagement rate of 1.48% over a 0.91% for carousels and a 0.69% for single images. With the rise of Reels and Stories, videos tend to get more engagement and reach compared to static images. Embrace this format to capture your audience's attention and convey your message effectively.

By following these 7 commandments, you'll be well on your way to mastering Instagram and achieving organic growth. Stay true to your brand, be consistent, and always keep your audience at the heart of your content strategy. Happy Instagramming! ✨

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