Are you using Instagram to build up your brand?
Here are 5 Annoying Instagram Practices to Avoid.
So you can create quality content and build memorable connections.
Oh the joys of Instagram! You may be wondering how to capitalize on this platform; it seems like everyone is doing it. Big brands, small brands and everything in between. And there’s no shortage of influencers with shiny grids that can make you wonder if your grid should look as fancy and perfect too. The short answer is -- not necessarily. But I promise to dive into the do’s in another post and instead start with what NOT to do.
These practices get NO LOVE
Don’t be THAT guy or gal
Because as busy business owners, we want to use this free platform to turn followers into fans, not turn them off in an instant.
Here is a list of annoying practices to avoid on Instagram to help build better connections, avoid scams, and create a better IG experience for all :)
Starting with the biggest offender…
1. The robo comments/templated responses
Looks like:
A canned comment: “This is really interesting, check out our (insert: business, page, product) …”
Why it’s annoying:
Some people, including myself, occasionally post vulnerable topics and open up about a personal experience. PLEASE don’t allow anyone to post a canned response that clearly shows me (and others) three things:
You didn’t read my caption
You have no interest in getting to know me
You’re just trying to make a sale or push a product or service
Try instead:
Whatever you do - PLEASE don’t try to fake the engagement! Leave the engagement to … you. Take a few minutes to interact thoughtfully with the people you follow and those that follow you. If you don’t have time to do it yourself, you can hire someone to engage on behalf of you and your business. Just make sure they understand you and your brand’s core value; someone who will spend the time getting to know other followers and sincerely connecting with them on your behalf.
My prediction is that IG will begin cracking down even more on this practice since they want their users to enjoy the platform. So it’s best to avoid robo comments and templated responses completely.
2. Shameless self-promotion
Looks like:
The “LIKE my last post” comment
Why it’s annoying:
Just NOPE. It’s as fake as they come. And showcases a sad cry for attention.
Try instead:
Read the comment, reply only if it is meaningful to you, and write something that will resonate with that person or brand. That’s how you build real connections. Don’t go around asking for likes. You wouldn’t do this in real life, would you?
3. Salesy third-party promotions
It looks like:
We love your content - DM us for collaborations.
Why it’s annoying:
Most of the time, this is just a ploy to get you to buy stuff for a ‘discount’ and post about it. Or a way to ask you to tell your friends about a product. This is an inauthentic way brands are trying to connect with customers.
Try instead:
Unless your product or service is directly aligned with the brand that wants to collaborate and the offer is too good to pass up-- like: a FREE bracelet in exchange for your review/comments/likes -- then move along. And pay attention to the brands that are making a better effort at connecting with you, not selling to you.
On the flip side, find brands that align with your core values, mission, and product or service and develop a genuine relationship. Think about meaningful ways you can collaborate that will be mutually beneficial and pursue those opportunities. For example, if you’re in the fitness industry, and a fitness clothing brand is doing work you admire - reach out and ask them about ways in which you can both collaborate to best serve your audiences.
4. The fishy DM you get right after following a new account
Looks like:
“Hi. Thanks for the follow. You should check out my friend’s feed. They create a lot of content you may like”
Why it’s annoying
Now you’ve made it clear that I just followed a possibly fake account that is designed to push another account -- you’re getting a big fat ‘unfollow’ from me.
Try instead:
Personally, I’m not a fan of the instant DM that shows up in my inbox shortly after I’ve followed a new account and goes straight to a sale. While I think some accounts do this well, I would avoid the auto DM until you have built a real relationship with the person. Your bio should have your business info and a hook. Don’t sell to me right away. It’s a big turn off.
5. Follow/Unfollow game
Looks like:
“Follow me and I’ll follow back”.
Why it’s annoying
You’re showing people that this is just a game you’re playing to garner more followers.
Try instead: Follow accounts that you want to follow. Simple, right? Also, don’t follow the ones that seem fake or unaligned with your brand and your interests. This will ensure that your feed is filled with things you actually care about and want to engage with.
Instagram has grown to crazy levels in a very short amount of time. It’s popular, it’s shiny and people love to play on the platform. If you’re using it for fun - have at it! But if you’re using it for business, please consider avoiding these annoyances to ensure your brand doesn’t give off the wrong impression. Afterall, we’re all here for a good time, authentic connections, and future fans and sales.