In just one decade, Instagram has gone from a simple photo-sharing app, to one of the world’s largest networking platforms. Sure, you can still post a photo of a flower in your yard, or while out to dinner with your friends. Maybe you mostly use Instagram to just view and like other people’s content. But as a musician and/or producer, understanding how to utilize Instagram to your benefit has the potential to help your business grow immensely.
To make your Instagram as strong as it can be, you need to develop connections. To boost your account right off the bat, you can buy IG followers to ensure that you’re set up for success. Here at Leoboost, we offer fast followers from real accounts. Once you already have followers on Instagram, you will show up more on the explore page, you will show up at the top of news feeds so more organic traffic can find you.
The next steps are up to you. Follow these simple tips and tricks to make sure your profile stands out among the crowd.
The first option you’ll have when creating a new account, is what kind of account you want. Normally, it’s typical to choose a personal account, and even to keep it private. However, when using Instagram to build your network, it’s important that you keep your account public with a business or creator account. With either of these options, you’re able to view insights, promote your posts, and track the impressions your page makes throughout the app.
If you already have an existing account that you’d like to change, don’t fret. Just go to settings, click “account” and choose the option to either “switch to a business account,” or “switch to creator account.” If you intend on selling merchandise, a business account might be more favorable, or if you’re just looking to create content, a creator account might be best. Talk to your teammates, and use your best discretion.
Your profile is the first thing any potential follower would see, so make sure you’re taking your time to cultivate a profile that fits the essence of your band, or music, or production style, etc.
If you’re making a brand-new account, the first thing you will need is a username. If you choose not to use your real name, or your band’s name, make sure it’s still something that reflects your brand, and is easily accessible for anyone trying to find you. You’ll also need to select a profile photo. To put forth the most professional aesthetic, make sure it is a high-quality photo that showcases a bit of your band's personality.
The next thing you will need to add is a short bio. Instagram has a 150-character limit for bios, so make sure it is clear, and concise. You’ll also have the option to link a website, so don’t worry about including that in the bio itself.
As a musician or producer, you’ll want to understand IGTV. Of course, you’ll be able to post normal photos or 30 second videos, but if you want to post a video that is more than 30 seconds long, it will be posted to IGTV.
With IGTV, you can categorize your videos into various series, and increase your likelihood of appearing on the IGTV “Explore” page, therefore expanding your content to potential new followers, and increasing your post’s number of views.
In addition, the newest addition to Instagram is IG Reels. Similar to TikTok, IG Reels gives you the opportunity to post 15 second videos set to popular audios. As a musician or producer, utilizing Reels is a really good way to get your sound out there.
To promote the sound, and to gain traction to your page, you can even ask followers, friends, or hire influencers to popularize your audio, and expand your network.
While you’re busy posting photos, IGTV videos, or IG reels, don’t forget about your story!
Especially with a business or creator account, your Instagram story is a great way to immediately track how many people are viewing your story, and even how many people forwarded through it, exited, backtracked or shared it. Instant feedback is vital to making the most out of your account!
Another great way to use your story as a musician or producer is through Spotify.
When listening to a song on Spotify, the Spotify app gives you the option to share the song directly onto your Instagram story. The story will feature the song’s album cover, song title, and artist name, plus - anyone who views the story will have the option in the top left corner to click “play on Spotify.” Clicking that button will take the user directly to their own Spotify app, and begin playing the song. With just a click of a button, your music can be on their playlist.
So you want a blue check? Verification is a great way to tell your potential followers that you are serious about your music. In order to be verified by Instagram, you need to actually apply, and receive approval. For the most part, Instagram will verify companies, brands, public figures, or celebrities that have a large following, and an influential voice. It can be challenging to receive verification, but the more you build your network, and share your content, the better chance you have.
When building your platform, think outside the box.
If you’re a singer, maybe commit to posting a cover of one of your favorite songs or artists once a week. If you’re a rapper, maybe practice your freestyle in your Instagram stories. If you play an instrument, maybe duet other people’s IG reels, and add your extra flare.
Having a special weekly segment amongst your normal posts will increase traffic to your page, and help you stand out!
While social media can appear daunting, the more you know, the better off you are.
If nothing else, remember to post frequently. The more active you are on the app, the more likely you are to appear on other people’s feeds. Continuity and consistency are super valuable when it comes to Instagram. Use these tips and tricks, and before you know it, you’ll be a social media mogul!
For more information about how to boost your page, click here. We run a constantly updated blog with all the tips and tricks you need for Insta.