How to Get More Followers on Instagram: A Guide for Small Businesses

Instagram remains one of the most powerful tools for brands and entrepreneurs. With over 2 billion active users every month, it’s still the go-to place for visual storytelling, community building, and growing your brand’s online presence. That’s why many business owners alike are still asking: How to get more followers on Instagram today?

The good news: you don’t need to go viral or spend thousands on ads to grow a solid, loyal following. With the right strategy, content, and tools, you can attract the right people and turn casual scrollers into engaged fans.

In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to get Instagram followers, including both free methods and paid strategies like boosting posts and running Instagram ads.

Let’s dive in.

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Can You Buy Instagram Followers?

Yes, you can buy Instagram followers, but you absolutely shouldn’t.

It might seem like a quick fix to grow your follower count, but those followers are usually fake, inactive, or bots. They won’t engage with your content, and they could actually hurt your reach, credibility, and even violate Instagram’s rules.

You might see your follower count shoot up overnight, but those are almost always bots or fake accounts. They don’t like, comment, share, or buy from you. And worse, Instagram’s algorithm can detect fake engagement. That means you risk getting shadowbanned, making your content invisible to real users.

Why buying followers backfires: 

• It breaks Instagram’s terms of use. You’re playing with fire. Your account could be flagged or restricted.
• Your engagement rate plummets. 10,000 fake followers and 20 likes per post? It’s a red flag for real users, and the algorithm.
• Brands and collab partners can tell. They’ll spot fake followers in a heartbeat. It damages your credibility.
• It’s a short-term vanity metric with long-term damage.

If you’re trying to build a business, brand, or influence that lasts, focus on earning real followers who care about what you offer. As Kevin Kelly says, you don’t need a million fans, you need 1,000 true ones.

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How to Get More Followers on Instagram Free

So, how do you get more followers on Instagram, actually?

Now, let’s dive into 30 practical strategies to help you master how to grow Instagram followers quickly and effectively. No bots, no shortcuts, just real followers who actually care about what you share.

1. Ask friends and family to follow and share

If you’re just getting started on Instagram, don’t overthink your first move, start with the people who already know and support you. Ask your friends, family, coworkers, classmates, or even friendly neighbors to follow your account.

This warm outreach helps in two ways:

• You get those crucial early followers that make your page look alive.
• Instagram’s algorithm notices the activity and starts showing your content to more people.

And, don’t just ask for follows, ask for referrals. Your network knows someone who would love what you’re posting. Just give them a reason to spread the word.

2. Run a giveaway with follow-to-enter mechanics

Instagram giveaways are one of the most effective ways to increase your reach, boost engagement, and yes, get more real followers. And the simplest format to get started? A “follow to enter” giveaway.

This method is perfect if your goal is to grow your follower count, gain visibility, and create buzz around your brand or product launch.

There are various types of giveaways you can try: 

• Like/ follow/ share: The classic format, simple, effective, and great for reach. Users follow your account, like the post, and share it to their story or tag friends.
• Comment to enter: Ask followers to leave a comment, like answering a fun question, voting on a product, or sharing how they’d use your prize.
• Caption contest: Post a fun or quirky photo and have users come up with the best caption. Great for encouraging creativity and brand interaction.
• Tag a friend: Each participant tags 1 – 3 friends in the comments. It’s organic word-of-mouth growth on autopilot.
• Photo or video submissions: Get UGC (user-generated content) by asking followers to post a photo or video with your product and tag your account.
• Create a hashtag: Let followers come up with a clever hashtag for your brand, campaign, or product.

To run a successful Instagram giveaway, start by setting a clear goal. Next, choose a prize that’s valuable and relevant to your ideal audience, and keep entry rules simple and clear. Make sure to include important details like deadlines, winner selection method, and the official disclaimer that your giveaway isn’t affiliated with Instagram.

Promote your giveaway beyond just one post. Share it in your Stories, on other social platforms, through email, and even in your bio. Use eye-catching visuals, strong CTAs, and hashtags to boost visibility. And when the contest ends, announce the winner publicly to build trust, and consider sharing a thank-you post to keep your new followers engaged.

3. Promote your Instagram on other platforms

Learning how to get more followers on Instagram isn’t just about promoting on Instagram, you can also promote it everywhere your audience already hangs out. Whether you’re active on TikTok, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, or LinkedIn, use those platforms to drive more eyes (and followers) to your Instagram.

Here’s how:

• Add your Instagram handle or link to your bio on every platform. 
• Mention your Instagram in your content, like “See behind-the-scenes on IG.”
• On YouTube, add it to your video descriptions and outro screens.
• On Facebook, share a Reel and encourage people to follow for more. 
•  Include your Instagram handle in your email signature, blog posts, and packaging.

Include exclusive content, flash sales, giveaways, or daily inspiration. The more value you offer, the more clicks you’ll earn.

4. Create a shareable branded hashtag

Branded hashtags are unique tags tied to your brand, helping organize content, encourage community engagement, and increase visibility. They can be as simple as your brand name or as creative as a campaign slogan.

Popular types include:

• Brand name hashtags: e.g. #GoPro or #GoProFamily
• Slogan hashtags: e.g. #JustDoIt or #ShareACoke
• Campaign-specific hashtags: e.g. #MySummerLook2025

Tips for creating one:

• Keep it short, easy to remember, and easy to spell.
• Double-check it’s not already widely used.
• Use capital letters for clarity (like #CreateWithUs).

To promote it:

• Add it to your Instagram bio, captions, and Stories.
• Encourage followers to use it for UGC or contest entries.
• Use it consistently yourself to set the example.

5. Join and comment meaningfully on niche accounts

One of the simplest (and most underrated) ways to grow on Instagram is by engaging with other accounts in your niche, genuinely.

Find creators, brands, or communities that share your target audience. Follow them, watch their content, and leave thoughtful comments that add value, not just “Love this!” or emojis. Share a perspective, ask a question, or highlight something specific you liked.

Here’s why it works:

• Your comment is visible to their audience, and if it stands out, people will click through to your profile.
• It helps you build relationships with creators and potential collaborators.
• It shows the algorithm that you’re active and relevant in your space.

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How to Get More Followers on Instagram Using Paid Ads

Paid ads on Instagram can supercharge your growth, helping you reach a larger audience and gain followers on Instagram faster. By leveraging Instagram’s powerful targeting options, you can ensure your ads are seen by the right people, driving engagement and conversions. 

6. Boost your high-performing Reels or posts

Boosting Instagram posts and Reels is a quick way to increase visibility and gain followers on Instagram. Just tap “Boost Post” under any post, choose your goal (like profile visits or website clicks), set your target audience, budget, and duration, then launch the promotion. Instagram recommends starting with at least $5 for 6 days.

It’s simple, but don’t expect massive follower growth. While boosting can bring more reach and likes, it’s not the most effective way to gain loyal followers or drive sales. Here’s why:

• Limited targeting compared to full Instagram ad campaigns
• No direct “Follow” call-to-action
• Engagement doesn’t equal followers
• Best for short-term visibility, not long-term growth

Use boosting to give strong posts a push, but for real growth, pair it with consistent content and more targeted ad strategies.

7. Run optimized Instagram ads

Instagram ads are another effective way to learn how to get more followers on Instagram. They are paid posts that appear across Reels, Stories, Explore, and the main feed. Unlike organic content, they include a “sponsored” label and a clickable link, allowing you to drive traffic to your website, product page, or service offering. They’re ideal for reaching new people outside your follower base since you can control who sees them based on age, location, interests, and behaviors.

Average Instagram ad costs:

• CPM (Cost per 1,000 impressions): $13.66
• CPC (Cost per click): $1.36
• CPL (Cost per lead): $9.23
• CPE (Cost per engagement): $0.063
• CPI (Cost per install): $1.99

To make ads work:

• Set a clear goal, traffic, conversions, or awareness.
• Use eye-catching visuals and strong captions with a CTA.
• Monitor results using analytics, and tweak your ads based on performance.

Instagram ads take time to master, but with a smart plan and testing, they can become a powerful tool in your marketing strategy.

8. Use lookalike audiences to reach ideal followers

If you already have a solid follower base or customer list, you can use lookalike audiences in Meta Ads Manager to find people who share similar interests and behaviors. This strategy helps you:

• Reach users likely to be interested in your brand
• Scale your audience while maintaining relevance
• Improve ad performance and follower quality

Pair lookalike targeting with engaging content or exclusive offers, and you’ll attract followers who are more likely to stick around and convert.

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Optimize Your Instagram Profile to Attract More Followers

Another important factor you must pay attention to when looking for how to get more followers on Instagram is your profile. Your Instagram profile is your first impression, so make it count. A well-optimized profile tells new visitors exactly who you are, what you offer, and why they should follow you. Here’s how to set it up for success:

9. Write a bio that hooks & converts

Your bio is like your 3-second elevator pitch, it tells people who you are, what you do, and why they should stick around. Here’s how to make it count:

• Be clear about what you do: Don’t be vague. Spell out your role or niche in plain language (e.g., “Helping small brands grow with smart content”).
• Keep it short & sweet: You’ve only got 150 characters, make every word count.
• Include relevant keywords: Think like your ideal follower. What would they search for? Use those words in your bio to improve discoverability.
• Show your personality: A touch of humor, quirkiness, or heart helps people connect with you instantly.
• Highlight new milestones or offers: Just launched a product? Hit 10K followers? Mention it to build interest and credibility.
• Include a clear call-to-action: Tell visitors what to do next, “Follow for daily tips” or “Grab your free checklist below.”
• Add contact info if relevant: Use email or contact buttons for business inquiries, it makes you easier to reach.
• Feature your branded hashtag: If you’ve created one, include it in your bio to encourage UGC and build brand identity.
• Use emojis (but don’t overdo it): Emojis can break up text and add visual appeal, but use them to enhance, not clutter.

10. Add a smart link

The link in your bio is valuable real estate, so don’t waste it on just your homepage. Instead, use a link-in-bio tool like Linktree, Beacons, or Later’s Linkin.bio to create a mini landing page with multiple links. 

You can send people to your latest blog post, online store, lead magnet, booking page, or affiliate offers, all from one link.

This setup is especially helpful if you promote different things over time. Rather than constantly updating your Instagram bio, you just update your landing page and keep your profile link the same. Simple, efficient, and way more effective.

11. Use a clear profile photo

Your profile photo is small but mighty, it’s often the first visual cue people see when deciding whether to follow you. So make it count is crucial when learning how to get more followers on Instagram. 

Use a high-quality image that looks sharp even at a small size. Avoid blurry, pixelated, or overly filtered photos. A close-up headshot works best for personal brands, while a clean logo is ideal for businesses. Just make sure it’s centered and easy to recognize in Instagram’s circular crop.

Pay attention to your background, go for something simple that doesn’t distract from your face or logo. Stick to natural lighting when possible; it makes your photo feel more real and welcoming.

Also, consider your brand colors and overall aesthetic. Your profile image should visually match the vibe of your feed and other platforms, so everything feels consistent.

And don’t be afraid to update it every so often to reflect your current look, style, or branding. A fresh photo can re-engage old followers and make a strong impression on new ones.

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Create and Share Quality Content to Grow Instagram Followers

83% of Instagram users say they discover new products through visuals on the platform, and posts with high-quality images receive 38% more engagement. By posting content that resonates with your audience and adds value, you can attract more followers and build a stronger online presence for your brand.

12. Build a scroll-stopping content strategy

If you’re looking for how to get more followers on Instagram, and keep them following you, your content needs to stop the scroll. A strong Instagram content strategy helps you stay consistent, showcase your brand, and actually connect with the right audience.

Start by defining who you’re speaking to and what they care about. From there, set clear goals. Then, create 3 – 4 content pillars (like tips, behind-the-scenes, testimonials, or personal stories) to guide your posts.

Use a mix of formats to keep things fresh:

• Reels to reach new audiences
• Stories to connect with existing followers
• Carousels or static posts for value-driven content
• Lives to engage in real time

Plan it all out with a content calendar and posting schedule you can actually stick to. Layer in a simple hashtag strategy to boost discoverability, and regularly check your analytics to see what’s working, then tweak and improve.

It doesn’t have to be perfect. But it does have to be consistent, valuable, and authentic. That’s what makes people stop, read, follow, and come back for more.

13. Post high-quality visuals with strong hooks

On Instagram, visuals are everything, your content has to look good before it even gets read. That means posting clear, well-composed, high-resolution images or videos that reflect your brand’s vibe.

But looks alone aren’t enough. You also need a strong hook, something that grabs attention in the first second. This could be a bold headline on a carousel, an unexpected first frame in a Reel, or a powerful quote that stops someone mid-scroll.

Here’s how to do it right:

• Use natural lighting or bright, brand-aligned colors
• Keep visuals clean and uncluttered so they’re easy to process
• Add on-screen text to tease what the post is about
• Start with curiosity or impact, ask a question, show a surprising stat, or make a bold statement

The goal is to get your audience to pause, pay attention, and want to know more. High-quality visuals get you noticed, strong hooks keep them watching.

14. Create engaging Reels using trending audio

Reels are favored by Instagram’s algorithm, and using trending audio gives you a better shot at landing on the Explore page or Reels feed, hence you can master how to get more followers on Instagram.

To stand out, get creative with your visuals: try text overlays, props, transitions, and unique camera angles. Keep in mind that many people scroll without sound, so captions or subtitles are essential.

Use trending sounds and hashtags that align with your niche. You can remix popular Reels or add your own twist to viral formats to stay relevant while still being original.

Tell a story with your Reels. Authenticity always wins, so don’t be afraid to show personality or keep things casual and real.

Make your videos pop by editing them with filters, effects, captions, and music. Tools like Adobe Express or Instagram templates can help if you prefer editing outside the app. Just make sure the format and aspect ratio are optimized for Reels (9:16).

Once posted, track your performance using Instagram Insights. Look at views, likes, shares, and watch time to refine your content and keep improving.

15. Use carousel posts to increase saves and shares

As of 2024, carousel posts have the highest engagement rate on the platform, averaging 10.15%, outperforming single-image posts and even Reels in some cases. So, carousels naturally encourage users to swipe, pause, and engage more deeply with your content, making them an essential tool when learning how to gain Instagram followers.

To make the most of carousels:

• Start with a scroll-stopping first slide, something bold, intriguing, or visually striking that hooks attention right away.
• Encourage swiping by teasing what’s inside: “Swipe to see…” or “Here are 5 tips you need.”
• Design each slide to stand on its own while still feeling part of a cohesive series.
• Keep your layout clean and your message clear, don’t overload each slide with too much text or cluttered visuals.
• Use carousels to tell stories, share tutorials, break down topics, or highlight testimonials.
• Add value that makes people want to save the post for later or share it with friends.

The best-performing carousels often feel like mini-guides or quick wins. So if you want more saves and shares (and ultimately more followers), add carousels to your content strategy, and keep them clear, valuable, and swipe-worthy.

16. Post consistently at the right times

Even a great post can flop if your audience isn’t online to see it and you can’t grow Instagram followers.

Instagram’s algorithm favors engagement that happens quickly after posting, so timing directly impacts how many people see your content.

Here’s when your audience is most likely to be active:

• Mondays: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Tuesdays: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
• Wednesdays: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Thursdays: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
• Fridays: 11 a.m. & 2 p.m.
• Saturdays: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Sundays: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. & 3 p.m.

Best days overall: Monday through Thursday

Avoid posting: Saturdays,  it’s typically the worst day for reach

To stay consistent and timely, consider using a content calendar and scheduling tools like Later, Buffer, or Meta’s own Creator Studio. This ensures your posts go out when your audience is most active, boosting your chances of getting seen, liked, and shared.

Read more about Best time to post on Instagram in 2025

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Utilize AI Tools to Create Instagram Posts Faster

Another interesting way to learn how to get more followers on Instagram is by leveraging AI. With its growing popularity and practical applications, AI can help you create high-quality posts more efficiently. From generating engaging captions to editing attention-grabbing Reels, AI tools streamline the process. 

Let’s see how these tools can save you time while growing your follower base.

17. Use AI caption generators

AI-powered caption generators can save you time and effort while ensuring your Instagram posts have engaging and relevant captions. These tools help you create captions that resonate with your audience, incorporating popular trends, hashtags, and relevant keywords.

Here are some free tools you can use: 

• ChatGPT: Leverages advanced language models to help you create personalized and engaging captions in seconds. Simply input a brief prompt, and ChatGPT can generate captions that match your style and tone.
• Gemini: Offers quick caption generation by understanding your brand’s voice. It allows you to generate creative captions and optimize them with relevant keywords and hashtags for higher engagement.
• Copy.ai: Generates creative and catchy captions based on the tone you want to set, whether it’s casual, professional, or humorous. It also suggests hashtags and content ideas.
• Jasper: Uses AI to write high-converting captions tailored to your target audience. Jasper’s advanced features help you stay on-brand while maximizing engagement.

18. Utilize AI video editors for Reels

AI video editors are perfect for crafting high-quality Instagram Reels in less time. These tools help you automate the editing process, add effects, and optimize videos for the platform’s format and style.

• InVideo: Offers easy-to-use templates and AI-driven editing features to create professional Reels in minutes. You can add text, music, and transitions to elevate your videos, making them more engaging and polished.
• CapCut: Known for its intuitive interface, CapCut provides a wide range of editing tools including AI-powered features like auto subtitles, background removal, and smooth transitions, perfect for creating dynamic and eye-catching Reels.
• Filmora: This user-friendly video editing software offers AI-assisted features that help you create high-quality Reels quickly. With a variety of effects, transitions, and text options, Filmora lets you customize your videos for maximum impact.

19. Repurpose long-form content for Instagram Reels with AI

AI tools can help you break down long-form content, like blogs, podcasts, or YouTube videos, into bite-sized clips that are perfect for Instagram Reels, allowing you to reach a wider audience with minimal effort.

• Descript: Offers AI-powered transcription and video editing, allowing you to extract key moments from longer videos and transform them into attention-grabbing Reels, complete with captions and sound.
• Synthesia: Creates AI-generated videos from text, allowing you to quickly turn written content into dynamic Reels with an avatar delivering your message. Perfect for repurposing blog posts or newsletters into visual content.

With these AI tools, you can streamline content creation, ensure consistency, and reduce the time spent on producing Instagram posts and Reels, helping you maintain an active and engaging presence on the platform.

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Engage With Your Audience and Build a Loyal Instagram Community

Engaging with your audience is essential for transforming casual followers into a loyal community. The more authentic and consistent your interactions, the stronger the bond with your community, helping to drive long-term loyalty and support, alongside learning how to get more followers on Instagram.

20. Respond to all DMs and comments

Engagement is a two-way street. If someone takes the time to message you or comment on your post, replying shows that you value their attention, and that builds loyalty.

Responding to DMs helps nurture one-on-one relationships. The same goes for comments. A thoughtful response can turn a casual viewer into a dedicated fan.

Plus, Instagram notices when your posts get more comments and interactions, and boosts your visibility in return. So being responsive isn’t just good manners, it’s a smart growth strategy.

If your inbox is overflowing, consider using tools like Instagram’s Quick Replies, or third-party tools like ManyChat or Meta Business Suite to stay organized. 

Whatever system you use, make engagement a habit. It’s one of the easiest (and free) ways to grow your Instagram presence authentically.

21. Run Q&As, polls, or “Add Yours” stickers in stories

Q&As, polls, or “Add Yours” stickers in stories are fun, quick to set up, and incredibly effective at getting your audience involved.

• Q&A stickers: Ask your followers to drop questions about your niche, products, behind-the-scenes, or even random fun topics. Then answer them in follow-up Stories. It builds trust and keeps you top of mind.
• Poll stickers: Great for quick feedback. Use them to test product ideas, get opinions, or just entertain (e.g., “Which look do you prefer?”). People love giving their input when it takes just a tap.
• “Add Yours” stickers: Invite followers to join a trend or challenge. For example: “Add your work setup” or “Your weekend mood in a pic.” It encourages content sharing, which helps your profile reach new audiences.

These features don’t just boost engagement, they give you valuable insights and keep your community connected. Best of all? Instagram’s algorithm loves interactive content, so use these tools regularly to stay visible and build momentum.

22. Collaborate with creators and influencers in your niche

Collaborating with creators and influencers in your niche is a smart way to expand your reach, gain credibility, and grow your Instagram following faster. Influencers already have the trust of their audience, when they talk about your brand, it feels like a trusted friend’s recommendation rather than an ad.

To collaborate effectively:

• Find influencers aligned with your values: Look for creators whose content, audience, and tone match your brand. Micro-influencers (with 5k–50k followers) often have higher engagement and more loyal followers than large accounts.
• Engage before you pitch: Like and comment on their posts to build a genuine connection. Then reach out with a clear, personalized message about why you want to work together.
• Offer real value: Think beyond just free products. Propose co-creating content, doing an Instagram Takeover, or offering affiliate commissions or early access to new launches.
• Set clear goals and expectations: Define what success looks like, more followers, UGC, traffic, or conversions, and outline deliverables like number of posts, Stories, or Reels.
• Encourage creative freedom: Let influencers create in their style. Their audience follows them for a reason, so overly scripted content may fall flat.
• Promote the collaboration: Share influencer content on your Stories or feed, tag them, and keep the conversation going. Reposting also shows appreciation and extends the reach.

23. Utilize user-generated content (UGC)

User-generated content is one of the most effective tools for learning how to get more followers on Instagram. It includes photos, videos, reviews, or Stories created by real users, not your team. UGC feels authentic, builds trust, and increases engagement. In fact, 79% of consumers say UGC strongly influences their buying decisions.

To attract and use UGC effectively:

• Create shareable content: Post beautiful visuals, helpful tips, or emotional stories that naturally encourage users to tag your brand or repost your message.
• Use branded hashtags: Make it easy for users to contribute by creating a custom hashtag for your campaign or product. This helps you track submissions and build a UGC library.
• Host contests: Ask followers to post content with your hashtag or tag your profile. Offer a reward or feature their post as a prize, this drives submissions and excitement.
• Engage with your audience: Respond to UGC posts by liking, commenting, or reposting (with credit). This encourages more followers to participate and feel valued.
• Feature customer stories: Repost UGC to your feed or Stories and save them as Highlights with themes like “Reviews,” “Tutorials,” or “Customer Love.” Customize cover icons to match your brand aesthetic.
• Turn feedback into visuals: Use quotes from happy customers in carousel posts, add product photos, or turn testimonials into short Reels.
• Incorporate UGC into ads: UGC ads feel more genuine and tend to perform better than polished branded content. Try them in Stories, Reels, or carousel formats.

24. Host Instagram Lives regularly

Hosting Instagram Lives regularly is another effective ways to build real-time connections, increase visibility, and get Instagram followers. Live streaming puts a human face to your business and allows followers to interact with you in the moment, making the experience far more engaging than pre-recorded content.

Here are key tips to help you make the most of your Instagram Lives:

• Promote in advance: Let followers know when you’re going live through Stories, countdown stickers, feed posts, or even teaser Reels. Tease the topic, guest, or reason to join so your audience feels compelled to tune in.
• Plan your content: Always go live with a purpose. Outline talking points or create a simple agenda so your session flows naturally. Whether it’s a product launch, Q&A, tutorial, or interview, structure ensures your message is clear and impactful.
• Engage in real time: A big perk of Instagram Live is two-way interaction. Ask questions, respond to comments, and encourage emoji reactions to create a conversation, not just a broadcast.
• Use interactive tools: Add polls, Q&A boxes, and pinned comments to spark participation. You can even invite up to three guests to join your stream for interviews or casual chats that feel more dynamic.
• Be consistent: Try to go live on a set schedule, weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly, so your audience knows when to expect you. Consistency builds habits and keeps engagement high over time.
• Collaborate with creators: Partner with influencers or creators in your niche to expand your reach. Their audience may become your new followers, especially if the content feels authentic and valuable.
• Repurpose the content: Save your live video and share it as a Reel or Story so people who missed it can still watch. This helps extend the life of your content and gives you more return on the effort.

To attract new audiences during your Instagram Lives:

• Use relevant hashtags in the title or promo posts
• Shout out and welcome new viewers when they join
• Promote the stream on other platforms (like TikTok or Facebook)

Fun features to boost engagement include:

• Filters and effects to match your vibe or mood
• Co-hosting to share the screen with guests or influencers
• Fundraiser tools for streaming with a cause
• Image sharing during the stream for demos or visuals
• Post-stream sharing to Reels or your feed for greater visibility

25. Create Instagram Highlights to keep stories alive and organized

Instagram Stories vanish after 24 hours, but Highlights let you preserve and organize your best content right on your profile. Think of them as pinned “folders” of Stories that sit just below your bio and above your feed, always visible to visitors.

Each Highlight is a curated group of Stories you’ve chosen to keep, either saved directly after posting or pulled from your archived Stories (if auto-archive is enabled). You can customize each one with a cover image or icon and a name, making it a powerful branding tool.

Here’s how to make your Highlights stand out:

• Be innovative: Mix it up, use words instead of icons, or combine both for a fresh, creative look.
• Use bold icons and text: Clear, high-contrast visuals make your Highlights pop and easy to navigate.
• Stick to your brand colors: Maintain a consistent visual identity across your profile with matching highlight covers.
• Showcase what matters: Create Highlights for your products, services, tutorials, customer reviews, events, or FAQs.

26. Use geo-tags and location stickers to attract local followers

If you’re looking for how to get more followers on Instagram, focusing on a regional audience or drive foot traffic to your local business, geo-tags and location stickers are simple but powerful Instagram tools. Adding a location tag to your posts or Stories helps your content show up in location-based searches, making it easier for nearby users to discover you.

Here’s how to make the most of them:

• Tag your location on every post and story: This helps your content appear in location-based searches and aggregated Stories. More eyes = more chances to gain followers nearby.
• Add the “Location” sticker in stories: Just tap the sticker icon, select “Location,” and choose where you are. Instagram may feature your Story in that location’s public feed.
• Use local hashtags alongside geo-tags: Hashtags like #ChicagoEats or #LAFitness can work with your geo-tag to get double visibility, in both hashtag and location searches.
• Encourage customers to tag your location: Display a sign in-store or in your packaging asking people to tag your spot when they post. You can also run giveaways or shoutouts as an incentive.
• Track who’s tagging you: Search your location on Instagram and check “Top” or “Recent” posts. Engage with those users by liking or commenting, it humanizes your brand and builds loyalty.

Geo-tags and location stickers are your digital “open sign.” Use them to boost discoverability, build community, and get noticed by the right people, right where you are.

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Track Data and Optimize to Grow Smarter, Not Just Bigger

Analyzing metrics such as engagement and reach gives you valuable insights into what’s connecting with your audience. This approach allows you to fine-tune your content and strategy, ensuring you’re not just increasing numbers, but building a more engaged and targeted following.

27. Use Instagram Insights weekly

Make it a habit to check your Instagram Insights at least once a week. This built-in tool gives you valuable data on how your content is performing and helps you make smarter decisions, no guesswork needed.

Here’s what Insights can show you:

• Accounts reached
• Profile activity
• Accounts engaged
• Total followers
• Engagement rate per post
• Top-performing posts, Reels, and Stories
• Audience demographics (like age, gender, and location)

Use this data to:

• Spot patterns in your top content
• See what types of posts drive profile visits
• Adjust your posting schedule based on peak engagement times
• Understand your audience and explore new markets

Regularly reviewing this info helps you post more of what works, reach the right people, and grow your followers faster. Set a weekly reminder and let your data guide your strategy.

28. Track saves, shares, and profile visits, not just likes

Likes are nice, but they don’t tell the whole story. Saves, shares, and profile visits are stronger indicators of how useful or engaging your content really is.

• Saves mean your content is valuable enough for someone to revisit.
• Shares signal that your audience finds your post worth spreading.
• Profile visits show people are curious to learn more about you, and possibly hit follow.

Focusing on these metrics gives you a clearer picture of what’s working and how close your posts are to converting viewers into followers.

29. Adjust post formats, hashtags, and timings based on analytics

Use your insights to tweak your approach:

• If Reels are outperforming photos, make more video content.
• If certain hashtags consistently drive reach, double down on them or find related tags.
• If your posts flop at noon but thrive at 8 p.m., adjust your schedule.

Instagram growth is about testing, learning, and optimizing. Your analytics are there to guide you, use them!

30. Review your bio and links monthly

Your Instagram bio and link are often the first things new visitors see, think of them as your digital elevator pitch. But as your goals, offers, or brand focus shift, your bio should evolve too. That’s why it’s smart to review and refresh it at least once a month.

Ask yourself:

• Does my bio still reflect what I do and who I help?
• Is the link still relevant, pointing to the latest product, offer, or content?
• Could I update the CTA to better match my current campaign or goal?

Use a link-in-bio tool to keep things organized and flexible. You can update your landing page anytime without changing the link in your profile.

This small habit keeps your Instagram presence aligned, professional, and ready to convert profile visitors into followers, and eventually, customers.

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How to Get More Followers on Instagram – FAQs

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Final Thoughts

Learning how to get more followers on Instagram isn’t about chasing trends or hacking the algorithm, it’s about showing up consistently with valuable content, building real connections, and using smart tools to maximize your reach.

By combining content strategy with the right tech, you’re not just growing your followers, you’re building a brand that converts. Keep showing up, keep testing what works, and let the right tools do the heavy lifting behind the scenes.

And if you want to learn more about social media and eCommerce insights, check out our blog or contact us for further information.