How do you choose the right social media platforms on which to participate? It can be tough. The most common are Facebook and Twitter. However, platforms such as Pinterest, LinkedIn, Google+ and Instagram have also been hugely successful for businesses that use them appropriately.
With its rapidly growing and very engaged audience base, there’s a strong case for jumping on the Instagram bandwagon. But, is it the right platform for your business?
To help you decide, we’ve outlined three of the most common Instagram myths.
Myth: Instagram is Free
Setting up an Instagram account is indeed free. You don’t have to shell out any cash to get a handle or post pictures. What isn’t free is developing creative content, the time it takes to actually share said content, and monitoring your performance. Whether you’re spending your time managing your account or hiring someone to do it for you, it does cost money. Before you set up an Instagram account, your business needs to be prepared to absorb those costs.
Myth: Instagram Only Works if You Sell Visual Products
Yes, Instagram is based on sharing pictures. Businesses that sell visual products, like clothes, have built-in subjects. However, if your business doesn’t sell visually appealing product or you sell services, this doesn’t mean you have nothing worth sharing on Instagram.
You can use pictures to give customers and prospects an inside look at:
- Your company culture
- Employee volunteer activity
- Company milestones
- Valued customers
- Insider Tips
Myth: Results Can’t Be Measure
If results couldn’t be measured, investing in an Instagram account for your business would be a pretty tough decision. However, there are now several Instagram analytics platforms. Currently, we have found Iconosquare to be the most helpful. It offers a free version that gives you a limited amount of functionality. The main drawback to the free version is that it requires you to be log in daily to get daily analytics recorded. For less than $30 a year, the paid version ensures your analytics are always up to date. For many of our clients, it’s money well spent.
