With the variety of social media platforms available, it can get stressful on how best to properly utilize each. For consumer brands, developing an engagement strategy not only helps with driving authentic conversations, increasing conversions and customer retention rates, but also creating brand loyalists. With engagement rates four times higher than Facebook, here are four reasons why brands should utilize Instagram for this meaningful KPI.

It’s a Search Engine

Google isn’t the only place consumers are actively searching for brands – Instagram gets its fair share of searchers, too, with 70% of shoppers using the platform to find purchase inspiration. Instagram is no longer just a platform to share beautiful photos, but for consumers to actively engage and research brands, providing optimal opportunities for increased engagement. Plus, with Instagram’s largest demographics of active users between the ages of 18-44, it allows for plenty of opportunities to reach your target audience.

Creates Genuine Connections with Influencers

Despite the rise of new social platforms, 89% of marketers agree that Instagram is the preferred platform for influencer marketing. When it comes to influencer marketing, follower count isn’t always key – it’s engagement rate. Brands that partner with influencers on Instagram with high engagement rates are more likely to create genuine connections with not only the influencer, but with their audience as well.

Authenticity Shines with User-Generated Content

When brands utilize user-generated content, it allows consumers to be able to relate to them while fostering new and current relationships. Plus, when brands feature UGC, it can have a 70% higher engagement rate than other post types. This tactic not only enhances authenticity, but increases engagement by forming relationships, which can turn viewers into loyal customers.

Easy-to-Use Features

One of the best things about Instagram are its features that are designed to help increase engagement. Stickers are the perfect way to enhance engagement with the use of:

• Polls 
• Question
• Quizzes

 

Anytime brands utilize the above stickers, it counts as an engagement! It’s a simple and effective tool to learn more about your audience while they can also simultaneously learn about your brand.

 

Ready to give your brand’s Instagram a boost? Contact our team to learn more.