There is an easy way to direct more users to your Instagram feed without paying for advertising or even putting time into a marketing strategy.
Have we piqued your interest yet?
While it’s still important to maintain a strong and well-planned social media strategy, that’s no reason not to make the most of easy reach when you can.
The good news is that Instagram’s suggested users feature is 100 per cent free and requires only a little time investment.
Learn to use this feature wisely, and you’ll be able to access a brand-new growth strategy that’s quick and simple.
Awesome, right? Here’s how you can get started.
What is Instagram’s suggested users feature?
Remember the last time you followed someone new on Instagram? After hitting the follow button, you probably saw a suggestion list linking to a range of other users.
When you follow someone new on Instagram (or click the + person icon beside the message button at the top of someone’s Instagram account), the app takes the opportunity to recommend other creators you might be interested in too.
From Instagram’s perspective, the suggested users list is designed to keep users on the app for longer by connecting creators with engaged audiences who love the content they produce.
Suggested people on Instagram are usually similar in tone, niche, or style to the account they’re linked to. This means that you can easily discover people who share your vibe and help you get the most out of your Instagram experience.
How the suggestions feature can help you
Becoming a suggested account on Instagram is one of the best passive growth strategies on social media.
When you are one of Instagram’s suggested users, you can reach plenty of new potential followers from around the world, all of them targeted specifically because of their interest in your niche.
Suggested Instagram accounts can benefit from a great algorithm boost that allows you to share your content far and wide.
So how can these suggestions really help you build your Instagram following?
Free advertising
Plain and simple, Instagram’s suggestion list offers free advertising for your account!
While paid Instagram ads can be expensive, becoming a suggested user won’t cost you a cent, even as it helps you reach a long list of new followers.
Social proof
The suggestions feature also acts as social proof, highlighting the value you offer your audience with the content you share.
As a suggested user, your profile will be marketed to people who already have an interest in your niche and who follow (and trust the connections of) someone similar to you.
Community building
Building a strong community is the key to being successful on Instagram, which is a big part of what makes Instagram suggestions so powerful.
By linking your account to other creators like you, you can begin to develop your network and get to know other creators and users who care about the same things you do.
Your step-by-step guide to becoming a suggested user on Instagram
You know that being a suggested account on Instagram can help you grow. So how do you make it happen? Check out our simple step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Enable the suggestions feature
To get started, all you need to do is adjust your Instagram settings! Unfortunately, this particular feature isn’t currently available via the Instagram mobile app, so you’ll need to open Instagram from a non-mobile browser.
Here, visit your profile, and select the edit profile button. Scroll to the bottom of the screen, and check the box to enable similar account suggestions.
Step 2: Follow and favorite accounts like yours
Next, it’s time to teach the Instagram algorithm a lesson. When you interact with other users on Instagram, you provide the app with the information it needs to understand who you are and which other creators your content aligns with.
By following and favoriting other accounts that share a similar topic or style to your own, you can begin to link your content with its categories. This helps Instagram’s algorithm place your account in the right suggestions lists.
Go through your search history and make sure to follow the accounts that align with your brand.
Step 3: Engage with accounts in your niche
Likewise, it’s important that you make an effort to engage with accounts in your content niche. Not only will this help with organic growth, but it will provide the Instagram algorithm with essential information about your habits and genre.
Every day, make time to like, share, and comment on posts shared by accounts like yours. The more thoughtful you are about your communication, the more likely it is that you’ll find new followers who care about what you have to say.
Step 4: Stay consistent with branding
As always, Instagram’s algorithm relies on your epic branding skills. When you stay on brand with your content and use clear keywords and hashtags that relate to your niche, you’ll make it easier for the app to recognise and recommend you.
That’s not to mention the many other benefits of effective branding across your top social media platforms. Your posts will provide value and consistency for your followers, all while driving a brand awareness boost.
Other things to keep in mind
As you work to share great posts, attract new followers, and grow your Instagram presence, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
Remember that social media is always changing. New features and updates pop up all the time. The best way to take control of your account is to stay up to date with all the latest innovations and product releases.
Similarly, never forget that gaining new social media followers is a long game. In most cases, account growth doesn’t happen overnight. If you want to achieve your goals, you’ll need to be patient and stick around for the long haul.
Finally, be thoughtful about your focus. While new followers are great for growth, your true focus should centre around engagement. This way, you’ll be able to leverage whatever audience you build and direct even a small number of followers to equal maximum impact.
Your ticket to Instagram success
We know that gaining new Instagram followers can feel impossible, but with the right skills and tools to help you, it doesn’t have to be so overwhelming.
If you’re keen to take charge of your Instagram account and attract followers who will love your posts, we think you’re ready for Plann!
Ready to grow your following and curate a strategic social media presence? Sign up for a free 7-day trial of Plann Pro today.
