Instagram might not be for everyone but it’s a very powerful social media platform, especially for millennials. Research shows that Instagram drives more engaged traffic than any other social media channel, including Facebook.

Instagram gleans more return customers. If someone buys something from you and then follows you on Instagram, statistics show they’re more likely to become repeat customers, which is how businesses survive.

Our world is visual, and “a picture’s worth a thousand words.” Most people have a great camera built into their phone. That alone can be a fantastic business tool.

Is it really worth your time?

It’s hard to say how you should spend your time marketing your business. Marketing is a science and, with the onslaught of social media platforms, it’s only become more complicated. If you offer goods that are visual in nature, where images can be very impactful, Instagram is can work. Marketing is about one thing, engagement. How can you engage an audience? We live in a world where everything is moving so quickly, to keep up with it, you have to be fast and visual. Can you get them to your website, store, or event to see what you’re selling with strong visuals and content? If so, Instagram is worth your time and efforts.

How does your small business tell a story if you don’t sell “sexy” products?

Everything can be sexy if you approach it from the right angle. If you’re selling orthopedic shoes to senior citizens, show a sexy older woman rocking those shoes. You can make your small business look just as important as the big guys with well thought out images that tell who you are and what you’re selling. Sexy is subjective. Sexy can be getting the right product to the right people at the right price.

Do we have to post everyday?

Yes! Engagement is tough. People are fickle and the 20-40 year- old Instagram user is no exception. Post at least once a day. With Twitter you might need to post 8 to 10 times a day to stay current. With Instagram, a couple of pictures with short, pithy, content can do the trick.

Hashtags – are these just a gimmick? How do they work?

Hashtags are not a gimmick. They’re keyword phrases. If someone’s searching for something and uses a phrase that turns up in a hashtag, that search will lead them to you. Hashtags can take on a life of their own. The hashtag, #Nevermypresident, is getting a lot of traction from the people that don’t support the incoming president. Searching that hashtag will bring people with that mind set together.

When is Instagram better for my business than Facebook?

Instragram is better for reaching a younger audience. Facebook has moved toward an older demographic where Instagram and it’s visual connection to the phone garner a much younger crowd. If you’re product or services are aimed at the under 40 crowd, Instagram is a must.