Sponsoring Instagram posts is one of the best ways to grow and promote your business. With its focus on visual elements, Instagram stands apart from other social platforms. Instagram for Business offers many useful features, such as access to metrics, ad campaigns, shoppable products, and more.
Advertising on Instagram can be tricky, especially with so many rules and regulations set by Meta. However, Instagram sponsored posts are one of the most popular forms of promoting your business on the platform. Let’s dive into how to effectively use these promotions to boost your business.
What is a Sponsored Post?
Instagram sponsored posts, also known as promoted posts, are regular posts that a business chooses to pay for in order to reach a larger and more diverse audience. Think of them as the Instagram equivalent of a megaphone for your business. Much like their Facebook counterparts, these posts will remain on your profile long after the promotion ends, allowing you to look back at your marketing triumphs—and cringe at those old fonts.
To promote a post on Instagram, go to your business profile, select the Promotions tab, and choose a post to promote. On desktop, head to Meta Business Suite, go to Posts and Stories, and select the post you’d like to boost. Just remember, your Instagram account must be connected to a Facebook business page.
The Rules & Regulations of Sponsoring Instagram Posts
Instagram follows the same policies as Facebook, which means you’re limited in what you can post. It’s crucial to stay updated on Meta’s guidelines to avoid any infractions that could lead to your account being restricted. Posts that contain third-party infringement, personal attributes, and sensational content are all prohibited.
Topics like politics, alcohol, and subscription services are not banned but come with extra rules. Always check for the latest regulations, as not following them could be the digital equivalent of leaving the fridge door open—you’ll end up with a mess on your hands.
Top Tips for Sponsoring Instagram Posts:
post high-quality and interesting images
Instagram is a visual platform, so high-quality images are key. No one wants to see blurry or repetitive photos on their feed. Use simple tools like Canva to create stunning visuals, but make sure to customise templates to match your brand’s identity.
vary your content
Avoid spam-like content by ensuring each sponsored post has unique creatives and copy. You could promote anything from new events or products to sales and offers. Varying the content will help you understand what resonates best with your target audience.
consider competitions
Running a competition is a great way to boost engagement. Encourage your audience to like, comment, tag a friend, and share your posts. It will not only increase your reach but also create a buzz around your brand.
hashtag the right way
Hashtags are a fantastic tool for reaching new audiences. Research popular and industry-specific hashtags, and aim for mid-tail hashtags that are more likely to get your post seen without it getting lost in the noise. Put hashtags as the first comment on your post to keep your captions clean while maximising engagement. It’s the digital equivalent of putting the cherry on top of your marketing cake.
use videos in your sponsored posts
Video content generates high engagement, so use it to your advantage. Remember to include subtitles and make videos silent-friendly, as many users watch videos without sound. Make sure to capture their attention even without the catchy background music.
promote what works best
If a post is doing well organically, sponsor it to give it an extra boost. Since it’s already resonating with your audience, it’s likely to perform well when sponsored.
add a call-to-action button
Every sponsored post should encourage your audience to take action, whether it’s ‘Learn More,’ ‘Get Directions,’ or ‘Shop Now.’ Make sure the call-to-action aligns with the stage of the buyer’s journey, and don’t forget to include it in the ads manager.
target Specifically, but don’t limit your audience
While Ads Manager allows you to narrow down your audience, avoid getting too specific. You want to reach people, not just a handful of them. Use the audience definition meter to find a sweet spot in the middle range. Like a good recipe, balance is key to ensuring your sponsored post reaches the right audience.
keep Up with Features
Stay informed about new updates and features on Instagram. For example, sharing your sponsored post as an Instagram Story can boost engagement. Staying ahead of the game will ensure you’re using the platform to its full potential.
Conclusion
Sponsoring Instagram posts is an essential part of a comprehensive Instagram strategy. By using these tips and staying updated on best practices, you can effectively boost your business’s presence on the platform. Embrace the creativity Instagram offers, and let your brand’s personality shine through your sponsored posts.
