Instagram has many features that allow you to create and publish content for your target audience. You can use IGTV, Reels, text in your captions, images or videos on the feed, and many more.
Instagram: Common Mistakes to Avoid
But a few people will tell you what mistakes you should avoid on Instagram. Here are some common mistakes you need to avoid.
- You Don’t Engage with Your Audience
Creating content and scheduling posts is the first step. Generate engagement and replying to comments is the second step.
You need to respond to comments because it’s important for Instagram algorithms.
- Buying Followers and Likes
Buying likes and followers on Instagram will do more harm to your brand than good. Your engagement is also based on the organic followers you’ve gained.
Instagram doesn’t like fake (buying) followers and likes. This could affect your Instagram account and may also delete your account from the platform.
- You Don’t Use Captions
Captions are very important on Instagram. This is crucial when your image needs more explanation. Also, posts with captions have higher engagement.
You should never post anything without a caption.
- You Don’t Use Instagram Features
Not making the most of Instagram features is one of the most common mistakes marketers or businesses make. You need to create different kinds of content using IGTV, Reels, Stories, and Feed.
This makes your business account popular on Instagram and also increases your reach (and your success).
- Over-use Tagging
If you tagging too many people on a post may lead to lesser visibility of the image. This is unprofessional and may seem like you’re trying to grab the attention of the people without a reason.
- Use Links in Captions
Instagram is an image platform and it doesn’t allow to use of any clickable links on the posts. The only clickable link allowed on Instagram is the one that you can add in the bio.
It’s best to avoid adding links in captions and instead add a CTA (Call to Action). You can drive your audience to check the link in the bio.
- You Are Not Consistent
Posting occasionally is unprofessional and affects your Instagram account too. Also, if you post too much will harm your account. The two golden rules on Instagram are to be Authentic and Consistent.
So it’s best to plan your Instagram content calendar and use a scheduling tool.
- Over-use Hashtags
Hashtags are one of the best Instagram’s features. Hashtags can help you to promote your content, generate more visibility, and even make it viral.
While it’s good to add hashtags on each of your Instagram posts, it’s not the best thing to over-use it.
The right way to use a hashtag is to pick a very specific #word that resonates with your brand, business, or niche.
- Quantity Not Quality
Instagram is an image platform and you need to create quality content. If you post low-quality content, low-quality images or photos, sketchy videos, or fake stories, you will harm your Instagram account and your brand.
It’s better to use editing tools, use apps to improve your images, and then publish your content.
- You Don’t Know Instagram’s Rules and Guidelines
Instagram’s community guideline mentions what is allowed and what’s not. You need to read carefully the rules and guidelines.
Attention! If your content is spam or dangerous, Instagram will delete your account completely.