Instagram isn’t just a place for pretty pictures - it’s a powerful platform to build your brand, connect with customers, and boost sales.

With more than 2 billion monthly users and features made specifically for businesses, it’s one of the best places for small businesses to grow online.

Here’s how to get started and make Instagram work for you.

1. Switch to a business profile

A business profile unlocks insights, contact buttons, and access to tools like Instagram Ads and Shops. You’ll also be able to add your business hours, location, and category.

Steps to switch:

• Go to Settings > Account > Switch to Professional Account.

• Choose Business and fill in your details.

• Link your Instagram to your Facebook Page (optional, but really handy for ads).

2. Make your bio count

You only get 150 characters, so make them work. Your bio should quickly tell people what your business is and how to reach you.

Include:

• what you sell or offer,

• a link to your website, online store, or payment link.

• your location, and

• a branded hashtag, if you use one.

3. Show off your products & process

Instagram is visual, so use it to showcase what makes your business unique.

Some post ideas:

• Behind-the-scenes of how you make your products.

• Customer testimonials or photos.

• Promotions and product launches.

• Day in the life content.

• Reels that show your personality.

Keep your style consistent: use the same filters, fonts, and tone of voice. Your feed should feel like you.

4. Use reels to reach more people

Reels are short videos (up to 90 seconds) that help you show up on the Explore page. They’re Instagram’s fastest-growing content format.

Try this:

• Film a quick product demo.

• Share a tip or tutorial.

• Jump on a trend or sound and add your own spin.

• Use captions and hashtags so new customers can discover you.

Reels don’t have to be perfect - authentic, low-fi content often performs better than polished ads.

5. Use stories to stay top of mind

Stories disappear after 24 hours, but they’re perfect for building connections.

Use Stories to:

• show what’s happening right now,

• post limited-time offers,

• run polls and quizzes to engage your audience, and

• answer FAQs or do quick Q&As.

Save important stories to your Highlights so new followers can catch up anytime.

6. Tag products in your posts

If you sell physical products, you can tag them in your posts and stories using Instagram Shopping. This lets people browse and buy directly from your content.

How to set up Instagram Shopping:

• You’ll need a product catalog (use Facebook Commerce Manager or your eCommerce platform).

• Follow the setup steps here.

Or, if you don’t qualify yet, add a Yoco payment link in your bio and CTA buttons.

7. Collaborate to expand your reach

Grow faster by teaming up with other creators and business owners to tap into new communities.

Some collaboration ideas:

• Co-create content: Partner with a complementary business for a post or reel shared to both audiences.

• Share customer content: Ask customers to post photos or videos using your product, then reshare (with permission).

• Work with influencers: Offer products for reviews or giveaways - trade exchanges can work if it’s mutually beneficial.

8. Don’t post and ghost - engage!

Instagram rewards accounts that are active and social. That means replying to comments and DMs, liking other posts, and engaging with your community.

Try to:

• reply to every DM and comment,

• follow your customers,

• run a giveaway or “tag a friend” contest, and

• ask questions in your captions.

9. Track what’s working (and do more of it)

Instagram Insights (available on business accounts) shows you what content performs best. Look at metrics like reach, saves, shares, and profile visits to guide your strategy.

Try:

• tracking your top-performing posts each month,

• using that info to plan future content, and

• testing new formats or posting times.

Closing thoughts

Instagram isn’t just about likes - it’s about building connections. From showing up consistently to collaborating with others, every interaction helps tell your brand story, grow your community, and drive sales. 

And the best part? You don’t need fancy gear or a big team - just your phone, creativity, and the willingness to connect.