How To Boost Engagement With Instagram Collab Posts
The power of collabs on Instagram can’t be understated. The Collaboration feature, or as it is affectionately known, 'Insta-collab', not only expands your reach but can redefine your brand image, take your content to new heights, and even introduce you to fresh and inspiring perspectives. Here is exactly how to create a twice as nice Instagram Collab post.
What’s An Instagram Collab?
In late 2021, Instagram introduced us to 'Collab posts'. This innovative feature adds a new dimension to content sharing, permitting two accounts to co-author a Feed post or Reel.
This is how it works: the original author tags another account, inviting them to become a collaborator. This not only allows for a dual perspective in content creation but also enables the post to find a home on two accounts.
In Instagram's own words, when two accounts join forces in a Collab post:
Both account names command equal prominence in the post's header
The post is unveiled to both cohorts of followers
The post takes up residence on both collaborators' profile grids
All engagement metrics - views, likes, and comments - are a shared triumph.
Benefits Of Collabs On Instagram
If you've been stumped on how to expand your follower base, collaborate with a fellow influencer or brand.
Not only does it help you tap into their follower base, but it also associates your brand with theirs, creating a stronger, more dynamic online presence.
A well-planned collab generates buzz, increases engagement, and provides fresh for your followers.
Identify The Right Instagram Collaborator
What accounts should you collaborate with to get these mutually benefits? When it comes to collaborating with other accounts to grow your business on Instagram, it's important to choose accounts that are relevant to your niche or industry.
Here are a few types of accounts you may want to consider collaborating with:
Influencers: Influencers in your niche can help promote your brand to their followers, who are likely to be interested in your products or services.
Complementary businesses: Consider collaborating with businesses that offer complementary products or services to your own. For example, if you sell fitness apparel, you might collaborate with a fitness studio or personal trainer.
Local businesses: If you have a local business, consider collaborating with other local businesses to cross-promote each other's products or services.
Industry leaders: Collaborating with industry leaders can help you establish credibility and authority in your niche.
Pro tip: Consider their audience and engagement rate. You want to collaborate with accounts that have a similar target audience and a strong engagement rate to ensure that your collaboration will be effective in reaching new followers and potential customers.
How To Coordinate An Insta Collab
You don’t need a lot of followers to have a successful collab with a larger account, but you need an artful pitch to catch their eye. Here’s how to coordinate an Insta collab like a pro.
Come prepared! Don’t ask others to collaborate without a solid concept in place.
Suggest the topic along with a benefit or two for their audience.
Be flexible but have a direction for who will do what to contribute to the collaboration. The input needs to be mutual.
Don’t get discouraged when you hear the word “no.” People are busy. Podcast interviews are booked months in advances, and if you’re planning a 45-minute live, that collaboration needs to be slot well ahead of time, if it’s possible at all.
Instagram Collab Ideas
Ask to partner with a larger account who helped you in someway through their content. Break down a concept they taught you, and add your learnings for an extra insightful post.
An online business pairing up with a nearby brick-and-mortar for collab with local flair. Promote in store and through your channels.
Partner with a brand that represents your brand values, and why you believe in the product, mission, or organization.
Happy Creating!
Cyndi, Owner of Ascent StoryCraft
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