Instagram SEO 2.0: What’s Working in 2025

If it’s been a minute since you thought about Instagram SEO, it’s time for a refresh. In 2025, the platform has become even smarter about how it serves content—and that’s great news for small business owners looking to grow without relying on paid ads.

Instagram SEO (Search Engine Optimization) is all about how discoverable your content is within the app. That includes showing up on the Explore page, in search results, suggested Reels, and recommended accounts. The more your content aligns with what users are searching for, the better your chances of reaching new people—organically.

What’s Working Right Now:

1. Strong keyword placement in captions
Instagram’s algorithm now prioritizes text content more than ever. Your captions should include words and phrases your ideal customer is actually searching for—like “Orange County facial,” “summer skincare tips,” or “small business website design.”

2. Optimized bios
That one-liner under your name? It’s prime SEO real estate. Instagram uses your name field and bio to help users find you, so include keywords naturally. For example, “Social Media Strategist for Local Business” is more searchable than “Marketing Pro.”

3. Alt text that serves SEO
Alt text isn’t just for accessibility—it also helps with visibility. When uploading graphics or photos, write custom alt text that describes the image and includes a keyword. Example: “Business owner holding planner during content planning session.”

4. Content that matches intent
It’s not just about keywords—it’s about delivering what people want. If your caption says “social media tips,” make sure the content is helpful, skimmable, and saveable. Relevance = reach.

5. Reels titles and on-screen text
Instagram’s AI now reads on-screen text and listens to audio. That means your Reel intros should include searchable hooks or keywords for better discoverability.

What’s Not Working:

1. Hashtag overload
Throwing in 30 unrelated hashtags? That strategy has fizzled. Instagram favors quality and context over quantity.

2. One-word or emoji-only captions
Fun? Yes. Helpful? Not for the algorithm. Keyword-rich captions are essential for search visibility.

3. Ignoring alt text
Letting Instagram auto-fill alt text is a missed opportunity. Custom descriptions improve both SEO and accessibility.

4. Overly polished, stock-looking content
Today’s audience craves authenticity. Over-curated posts can feel impersonal and may get less engagement than behind-the-scenes or casual content.

5. Only posting static images
Static posts still matter, but if you’re not using Reels, you’re skipping the format Instagram is actively pushing.

6. Treating Instagram like a billboard
Posts that only promote your services without context or value tend to fall flat. Focus on creating engaging, helpful content that people actually want to interact with.

You don’t need to game the algorithm—you just need to speak your audience’s language and stay consistent.

Need help optimizing your Instagram for search? Take Flight is here to help. Let’s make your content work smarter, not harder.

How to Make Social Media Work When You Hate Being on Camera

Let’s get one thing straight: Reels and video still rule the social media world—but that doesn’t mean you have to be front and center every single time.  

If the idea of hitting “record” makes you want to disappear into your blanket cocoon with a cup of coffee (or wine, no judgment), you are not alone. Most of the time, those of us behind the business accounts are in our jammies or pleasure wear, hair in a bun, definitely not dolled up and “camera-ready”.

And sure, you could argue that’s the most authentic version of ourselves—which it totally is—but let’s be real: we’re all a little vain. We want to show up as the best version of ourselves, or at least with a little lip gloss and decent lighting. We get it. The pressure is real.  

So, what if we told you there are plenty of ways to show up without actually showing up on camera?

Here are some creative, faceless video ideas and tips to help you stay visible—without stepping too far outside your comfort zone:

1. Voiceovers Are Your New Best Friend

Record your voice sharing a tip, story, or answer to a frequently asked question. Pair it with:

• A screen recording of you working in Canva or packaging an order

• A timelapse of your workspace or daily routine

• Stock or branded video clips

Pro tip: Use Instagram’s built-in voiceover tool or record in your phone’s voice memo app for a more casual vibe.

2. Lean Into Text-Only Storytelling

Reels with trending music + bold text are still engaging. Try:

• “3 Things I Wish I Knew Before Starting My Business”

• “I said yes when I should’ve said no—and here’s what happened.”

• “What I’d Tell Any New Business Owner in 10 Seconds”

Use animated text, fun transitions, or Canva’s video templates to make it pop.

3. Let Your Products or Services Shine

Create videos that focus on what you do, not what you look like:

• A hands-only tutorial or packaging video

• A quick before-and-after

• Behind-the-scenes of your process, shot from behind or overhead

4. Repurpose Content into Reels

Turn an old blog post, caption, or testimonial into a Reel using tools like:

• Canva’s “Talking Presentation” templates (you don’t have to show your face!)

• InShot or CapCut for dynamic text + stock footage mashups

5. Use Templates + Trends Thoughtfully

You don’t need to memorize a script or be an improv star. Try:

• Lip-syncing a trending audio that fits your niche

• Using the green screen tool to talk about a visual (not yourself)

• Following a “this or that” trend using just on-screen text

And remember: Most of us aren’t nailing it on the first take. Or the fifth. Or the twelfth. Creating content takes time. It’s messy. It’s full of retakes and do-overs. But that’s normal.

You don’t have to be “on” to show up for your business. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s connection. If your content helps just one person feel seen, learn something, or laugh a little, it’s already done its job. So go ahead, post that faceless Reel. Your lip gloss can wait.

Need help bringing these ideas to life? Reach out to Take Flight—we’ll walk you through these strategies (and more!) to help you confidently promote your small business without ever stepping in front of the camera. Let’s make social media work for you.

Clients Ask: Why is Buying Followers a Bad Idea (and What to Do Instead)?

Clients ask us all the time: "How can I get more followers—fast?"

Small businesses and any one new to social media want those vanity numbers and believe a high follower count equals credibility and success. We get it. The pressure to grow quickly is real, and it can be frustrating when organic growth feels slow. That’s why many small business owners are tempted to take a shortcut and buy followers.

If you’ve ever considered purchasing followers, you’re not alone. But before you click “buy,” let’s set the record straight. Purchasing followers might boost your numbers, but it won’t grow your business. In fact, it can actually hurt your brand. Here’s why it’s a mistake—and what you should do instead to attract a real, engaged audience that actually converts…

The Problem with Buying Followers

At first glance, buying followers might seem like a quick way to boost your business’s presence. After all, a higher follower count must mean more credibility, right? Not exactly. Here’s why:  

1. Fake or Inactive Accounts

Most purchased followers are bots or inactive accounts. They won’t engage with your content, meaning your likes, comments, and shares won’t increase—just your number of followers.   

2. Lower Engagement Rates

Instagram’s algorithm prioritizes engagement. If you have thousands of followers but very few interactions, your content is less likely to be shown to real people.  

3. Potential Penalties

Instagram actively removes fake accounts and can penalize accounts that engage in inauthentic growth, meaning you could lose those followers just as quickly as you gained them.  

4. No Real Business Value

If your goal is to attract small business owners or entrepreneurs who might actually work with you, buying followers won’t help. A fake audience won’t book your services or recommend you to others.  

What to Do Instead: Authentic Strategies for Growth 

If you want real small business owners and entrepreneurs to follow you, the best approach is organic growth. Here’s how:  

1. Engage with Your Ideal Audience

Find and interact with small business owners by commenting on their posts, replying to their stories, and sending meaningful DMs. Authentic engagement fosters real connections and increases the chances of them following you back.  

2. Use Strategic Hashtags and Instagram SEO

Hashtags like #SmallBusinessMarketing, #EntrepreneurLife, and #SocialMediaTips can help business owners discover your content. Also, optimize your bio with keywords related to social media consulting so your profile appears in search results.  

3. Collaborate and Network

Partner with business coaches, industry leaders, or fellow entrepreneurs for live sessions, shoutouts, or collaborations. Cross-promotions introduce you to new, relevant audiences.  

4. Run Targeted Instagram Ads

Instead of buying followers, invest in Instagram ads that target business owners based on their interests and behaviors. This way, you attract the right audience—people who might actually become clients.  

5. Share Value-Driven Content

Consistently post high-quality content that provides real value. Share social media tips, success stories, and actionable advice that helps small business owners grow. The more valuable your content, the more likely people will follow and engage.  

The Bottom Line

A large follower count might look impressive, but if those followers aren’t real or engaged, it won’t benefit your business. Instead of wasting money on fake numbers, focus on building a community of real entrepreneurs who are genuinely interested in what you offer. Authenticity always wins in the long run.  

Are you looking for a strategy to grow your Instagram the right way? Let’s talk! Take Flight specializes in helping small businesses build a loyal, engaged audience—no shortcuts needed.  

Spring Clean Your Social Media: 4 Things You Can Do Right Now

Spring is finally here! Just like opening the windows and adding fresh flowers can brighten up your space, a little digital decluttering can breathe new life into your social media presence. A refreshed, well-maintained social media strategy helps your brand stay relevant, engaging, and effective.

Here are four quick things small business owners can do today to spring clean your social media presence:

1. Refresh Your Profile & Bio

Your social media profiles are often the first impression potential customers get—are yours up to date? Take a few minutes to:
✔️ Update your profile picture and cover photo if they’re outdated.
✔️ Ensure your bio reflects your current business offerings and brand voice.
✔️ Double-check contact information, website links, and business hours.

A fresh, polished profile is like adding a vase of bright flowers to your home—it instantly feels more inviting!

2. Audit Your Content & Remove Clutter

Over time, social media accounts can accumulate outdated posts, irrelevant content, or things that no longer align with your brand. Scroll through your past posts and:
✔️ Archive or delete old promotions, expired offers, or posts that didn’t perform well.
✔️ Identify what types of content your audience engages with most and adjust your strategy accordingly.
✔️ Ensure your messaging, visuals, and tone stay consistent across all platforms.

Think of this as trimming away wilted petals so only your best, most engaging content remains!

3. Reevaluate Your Hashtags & Keywords

Social media trends and search algorithms evolve constantly, so the hashtags and keywords that worked last year may not be as effective now.
✔️ Research current industry hashtags and swap out ones that aren’t generating engagement.
✔️ Optimize captions with updated keywords to improve searchability.
✔️ Test new hashtags and track which ones drive the most visibility.

This simple update ensures your content is reaching the right audience, just like placing fresh flowers in the perfect sunny spot helps them flourish!

4. Reignite Engagement & Community Growth

A clean and refreshed profile is great, but social media is about connection. Take time to:
✔️ Respond to unanswered comments and DMs.
✔️ Follow and engage with new accounts relevant to your business.
✔️ Encourage interaction with fresh polls, questions, or giveaways.

Building relationships online is like nurturing a garden—consistent care leads to long-term growth!

Need Help Getting Started?

Feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to begin? That’s where we come in! Take Flight can help you refine your strategy, refresh your content, and create a stronger online presence. Reach out today, and let’s get your social media in full bloom!