The topic of how to build an Instagram following has been a highly requested one, but before I dive in, I want to say there really is no secret growth strategy. There are some people (i.e. Tezza) who experience rapid growth, but for the most of us, it’s a long and painfully slow process. All I can do is shed some light on best practices and wish you the best of luck!

1. Post consistently.
   With so much content being pushed on social media every second, it’s important to keep your content coming by posting at least once per day. I would even recommend striving to post twice a day, but I realize that’s often unrealistic.

2. Engage with other users.
   The best way to build an Instagram community is to be active. Engage with other users by liking their pictures and leaving thoughtful comments. It’s a great way for people to find your page and may even lead to some reciprocated social love.

3. Post engaging content.
   This is easier said than done, but you should look through some of your past posts and see which performed well. Try to recreate content similar to the ones that had high engagement.

4. Keep your grid consistent.
   Try to use a similar edit for all your photos so your grid looks consistent and your images become distinguishable.

5. Utilize your analytics.
   If you’re signed up for a business Instagram account, you’ll be able to see a lot of insight into your audience, including what times they’re usually active. Try to post accordingly.

6. Post authentic moments.
   I’ve heard it again and again, but people want to see more real moments. Next time you’re out to dinner with your husband or even just shopping on 5th Ave, snap a picture. Your audience will connect with you on a new level and you’ll probably attract some new followers.

7. Find your niche.
   What makes you different? What are you particularly knowledgeable about? Rather than try to speak to Instagram as a whole, connect to a specific audience. Once you find your place in the industry, it will be easier to grow.

8. Get creative with your images.
   I don’t know about you, but there are only so many times I can look at the same photo of a coffee cup sitting on a marble table. Try to think outside the box and start trends rather than just follow them.

9. Get creative with your captions.
   You don’t have to write storybook long captions like I do, but using your captions to tell a story or paint a picture is a great way to connect with more people.

10. Be strategic with your hashtags.
    While hashtags don’t guarantee exposure like they used to, they are still a great way for other users to find you. #OOTD probably won’t do much for you since the hashtag is so overused. Instead, try to choose esoteric hashtags (i.e. #VelvetDress) so your photo will come up at the top of that search.

11. Entertain/Educate/Inspire
    In general, these are the three reasons people choose to follow someone. It’s okay if you’re not all three, but make sure you’re hitting at least one. Give your audience a reason to follow you.

12. Tag photo locations.
    Just another way for people to find your page.

13. Participate in a group photoshoot.
    Get your girls together and take pictures. It’s a great way to reach new audiences.

14. Get reposted.
    Tag the brands you’re wearing as well as accounts that post fashion inspiration. If you’re lucky, they’ll repost and give you some great exposure.

15. Update your bio.
    Make sure your bio lets people know what to expect from your page. While a cute quote or funny saying may be a more enticing way to fill the space, that doesn’t say anything about you. I would recommend adding your name, location, and a little snippet about the topics you cover (i.e. fashion, travel, beauty, career advice, photography).

16. Host a giveaway.
    It’s a guaranteed way to boost your following.

17. Discuss a trending topic.
    Is something trending online that you feel passionate about? Find the relevant hashtag and add your two cents. One, it will spark a conversation and two, people interested in that topic will discover your page. This also works for trending video challenges. I can’t tell you how many new accounts I found when searching the In My Feelings challenge.

Feel free to add more tips in the comments. Would love to hear your thoughts!

OUTFIT BREAKDOWN:
Maroon Velvet Dress: Zara
Monogrammed Box Clutch: Clutchitz (c/o)
Gold Starburst Earrings: Bauble Bar (c/o)
Black Tights: Hue
Black Booties: M4D3 Shoes (c/o)

xx Esther