Stories, IGTV, algorithm updates: since its creation in 2010, there have been more new features on Instagram than superhero movies on Netflix. Do you feel like you barely have time to adapt to a new feature before another update comes along? Don't panic, our social media management agency will help you!
Here are the new Instagram features identified by our social media consultant in Montreal that you should follow closely this year to continue generating engagement:
The arrival of local business pages
A new interface for Instagram Shopping
Changes in the Instagram algorithm
The arrival of local business pages
And yes, Google my Business had better watch out!
You will be able to gain followers on Instagram based on your location!
This new feature, currently only available in the United States, should be extended to Canada and the rest of the world very soon.
how to optimize the new instagram algorithm?
As you can see, all the information needed for a real user visit is present:
Exact location
Hours of operation
Phone number
Link to the website
Type of business/service
Price range
But the social network doesn't stop there! Instagram's new feature now allows you, if you are a restaurant or hotel owner, to add a "Book" button directly to your profile:
How to optimize Instagram updates?
Tip : You can directly link this call-to-action button to your OpenTable account to manage all your reservations on one platform:
How to optimize my Instagram Business profile?
A new interface for Instagram Shopping
More than 200 million users visit an Instagram Business page per day . We no longer have to convince you of the immense e-commerce potential of the social media.
Right now, Instagram Shopping looks like this:
How to create a product catalog on Instagram?
The social network then redirects you to the merchant's official website to complete the purchase:
How to sell on Instagram?
With all these steps, it is easy to lose potential consumers in the process of purchasing.
The Instagram Shopping algorithm is reinventing itself and is now allowing all mobile number list few “test” brands like Zara, Nike and Burberry to integrate the payment process directly into the application:
How to buy directly on Instagram?
Although these new Instagram Shopping features are currently still being tested with major retailers, the social media ultimately intends to allow users to pay directly on the platform.
Changes in the Instagram algorithm
As with any other search engine or social media, Instagram posts appear on your users' news feed based on criteria following a specific algorithm that evolves over time.
How to best optimize your profile and posts according to Instagram's latest developments?
Work on the quality of your photos
This is an idea that does not seem revolutionary.
But what is quality content, in the eyes of Instagram?
The Instagram algorithm values content that meets the following criteria:
High-quality photography: If you only have an old phone, it might be time to upgrade to something better.
Bold colors: Your content needs to stand out on your user’s screen
Professional landscapes or content
How to have quality content on Instagram?
You don't have to be the new photography prodigy to have a successful Instagram account. There are several easy-to-use tools at your disposal, such as VSCO :
What tools to publish on Instagram?
Post Stories
Of course, Stories won't have a direct impact on your position in the Instagram algorithm.
But don't forget that they remain a great way to connect with users, boost your engagement rate, and therefore optimize your overall presence on social media!
Today, there are 500 million users who watch stories daily .
How to post stories on instagram?
Be sure to check out our guide to the reels format on Instagram to master this new format.
Post live videos
The huge advantage of the Live format? Your subscribers receive a notification directly on their phone!
How to use Instagram Live?
The other advantage? Users expect more informal and less professional content: no need to invest in high-quality equipment.
Keep using hashtags
More and more users are following hashtags, so you could appear directly in their news feed just by writing the right description under your posts.
A study conducted by Sprout Social shows that the “ideal” number of hashtags to use is 9:
How to use hashtags on instagram?
So don't be afraid to use them!
Post at times that are most conducive to better visibility
Instagram is by nature a social media used on mobile, and therefore consulted most of the time outside of working hours (well, we hope…).
Our recommendations are therefore to publish:
During the lunch break between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
In the evening between 5 and 8 p.m.
If you can't publish your content live, use platforms to schedule your publications, such as AgoraPulse :
How to schedule social media posts?
Tip : Remember to check when the best times to post on your other social media are!
Instagram's latest news holds no secrets for you!
The Instagram algorithm may evolve from year to year, but now you know all the new features to watch this year.
If you have any questions about professional accounts or creating an optimized Instagram bio, contact us, our social media experts will be happy to assist you with your projects.
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