: So stoked to have this opportunity to be part of @instagram research panelists as a content creator @creators . Of course, I’ve signed an NDA and can’t spill the beans on our discussions, but I’m here to share some general tips on how to grow on Instagram. (P.S. I’m no Instagram growth coach; it’s all from my personal 3-year journey on Instagram) 1. Niche is the Holy Grail: Imagine your Instagram profile as a storefront. What’s your specialty? Whether it’s travel or sustainable fashion, defining your niche is like setting your brand’s GPS. It helps you attract the right audience and stand out in a sea of content. 2. Consistency is Queen: Imagine following an artist on Instagram, eagerly awaiting updates on their latest creations. But if they only post sporadically or vanish for weeks on end, you might lose interest. That’s the power of consistency. Aim for a steady flow of content—three times a week is a sweet spot. Plus, timing is key! Post when your audience is most active to ensure maximum engagement. 3. Hooks: Reel ‘Em In: Ever scrolled through your feed and paused at a post that made you go, “Wait, what?” That’s the magic of hooks. Whether it’s a catchy caption, a jaw-dropping visual, or a thought-provoking question, hooks are your secret weapon to stop scrollers in their tracks and make them double-tap. 4. Engage to Elevate: Don’t just wait for the likes to roll in—be proactive! Engage with accounts in your niche, leave thoughtful comments, and slide into those DMs (politely, of course). You never know when a simple interaction could blossom into a fruitful collaboration or partnership. The number of times I’ve landed collaborations simply by engaging with similar accounts is at least 10! 5. Authenticity Always Wins: In a world of filters and Facetune, authenticity is like a breath of fresh air. Don’t be afraid to show the real you—flaws and all. Share your journey, your struggles, and your wins. Your followers will appreciate the genuine connection, and who knows, your vulnerability might just inspire them too. Continuing in the comment section because I’ve reached the caption limit... #instagram #instagramcreator #creator #sanfrancisco