The Top 2 Instagram Changes from November (and What They Mean for Your Business!)
Instagram's latest updates decoded for small business success.
Last month, Instagram rolled out some significant changes that could impact how business owners, like you, use the platform to engage with your audience and tailor your content.
Here's a breakdown of what's new and how these changes can enhance your Instagram strategy.
Manage DM’s More Easily
Instagram is revamping the "message request" folder within DMs, introducing new sorting and filtering options. This change is particularly beneficial for business accounts that receive a high volume of messages. You can now organize your message requests based on criteria such as follower count, whether the account is verified, and if they are tagged as brands or creators. This means less time sifting through spam and more time engaging with potential customers or collaborators who are most relevant to your business.
Additionally, a new "story replies" folder will make it easier to view and manage responses to your Stories. This is a game-changer for keeping engagement high and ensuring no customer interaction goes unnoticed. For small businesses, timely responses can make the difference in converting a follower into a customer, so this streamlined process should be a significant aid.
Reset Your Algorithm
Ever feel like your Instagram feed isn't quite hitting the mark? Instagram now allows you to reset your recommendations. This feature could initially disrupt the flow of content you see, but it offers a fresh start to realign the algorithm with your current interests and business focus. For small business owners, this means a chance to refine what type of content you interact with, ensuring the posts you see and the suggestions made by Instagram are relevant and beneficial to your brand.
Resetting your recommendations can be particularly useful if you notice a decline in relevant content or after a rebranding phase when your business's focus shifts. Remember, while the reset might make your experience feel a bit off at first as the algorithm learns from your new interactions, it's a powerful tool to tailor your feed and discover fresh content and connections that align with your brand's evolving goals.
What This Means for You
These updates are all about enhancing how you interact with your audience and manage your content preferences. By making the most of these new features, you can ensure your Instagram account is as productive and engaging as possible. Embrace these changes to stay on top of your Instagram game, keep your audience engaged, and ensure your content reaches the right people.
Remember, staying informed and adapting to these updates quickly can set your business apart on a platform as dynamic as Instagram. Keep experimenting, and don't hesitate to reset if things start to feel stagnant!
This week: #womeninmalefields, a perfect score, and your ultimate Christmas gift.
HOP ON THESE TRENDS:
If I was your Instagram strategist, here are 3 Reels I’d encourage you to recreate for your brand:
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