“The growth on my Instagram is so slow. Any ideas that could help change that?”

Firstly, you’re not alone in feeling this! The “glory days” of rapid growth on established social media platforms are long gone. It is, however, very possible to achieve a fast following on new and emerging platforms—but that’s a conversation for another day!

The point is, growing your Instagram is about commitment to INPUT. You don’t acquire growth due to any time period, such as years in business or length of time on the platform. Growth is a result of your efforts. It’s the output (the return) from your input (the investment in great content).

You also need to think about different types of growth… because not all growth is equal! Growth in your ENGAGEMENT is far more valuable than simply growth in your number of followers.

It doesn’t matter how many people are following you if they don’t INTERACT with you. Engagement / interaction is KEY.

So what do you “input” in order to make that happen?

1. Be Personal.

People aren’t interested in the generic. They want to consume content that speaks to them. Know exactly who your target market is and share content for them, and only them. It is not your job to be all things to all people. It is your job to serve those to whom your product or service can bring the most value. 

2. Show Up. 

Posting twice a week on social media and hoping to grow your following isn’t going to cut it. You need to show up in your feed, in your Stories, and even IGTV, regularly. (This is different for everyone, but I’d be aiming for a minimum of 5 times a week. #realworld)

Show up CONSISTENTLY. 

Show up with the INTENTION to SERVE.

Show up with ZERO EXPECTATIONS of receiving anything in return.

3. Engage.

Show your followers you appreciate the time they take to interact with your content. Reply personally and genuinely to every comment and direct message. Similarly, return the favor and engage back with content created by others in your market, particularly people in your “circle of influence”.

4. Speak to Pain Points.

This is when you’re talking about and addressing struggles or common questions that resonate with your audience. In doing so, you’re inadvertently showing them that your product or service has the potential to be the solution to the challenges they’re facing. 

5. Don’t be a “player”.

Don’t simply chase likes and follows for the sake of having a “bigger number”. Be the reliable, honest, and trustworthy one who continues to show up in this social media world in encouraging ways, no matter how many times you get knocked down / rejected / ignored.

In a world where people are used to (and sick of) being sold to, be the breath of fresh air that brings them value instead. Valuable content is how you’ll continue to grow your following and your engagement.