Clients Ask: How Do Small Businesses Utilize Instagram Highlights

Instagram highlights are curated collections of your previously posted Stories that you can showcase on your profile. They appear as circles below your bio and remain visible permanently, allowing you to highlight important or favorite moments for your followers to view at any time.

Small businesses can utilize Instagram highlights to showcase their products or services, share customer testimonials, provide behind-the-scenes glimpses, highlight promotions or events, and organize content into easily accessible categories. This feature allows businesses to create engaging and informative collections that stay visible on their profile, helping to attract and retain followers while effectively communicating their brand story.

Follow these simple tips to get started:

1. Choose a Relevant Name

Give each highlight a clear and concise name that reflects the content within. This helps your audience quickly identify what they can expect.

2. Curate High-Quality Content

Ensure that the images or videos you add to your highlights are visually appealing and represent your brand or message effectively.

3. Highlight Key Products/Services

Create highlights that showcase your best-selling products or highlight the services you offer. This can pique interest and encourage potential customers to explore further.

4. Organize Your Highlights

Arrange your highlights in a logical order to make it easy for visitors to navigate through your content. Consider using categories or themes to create a structured experience.

5. Craft Engaging Covers

Design eye-catching covers for your highlights to attract attention. Use consistent branding elements, such as your logo or brand colors, to create a cohesive look.

6. Include CTAs

Use text overlays or stickers within your highlights to include calls-to-action (CTAs) that prompt viewers to take a desired action, such as visiting your website or making a purchase.

7. Utilize Story Highlights Icons

Instagram now allows you to add custom icons to your highlights, giving them a unique and professional touch. Use relevant icons that align with your brand aesthetic.

8. Keep Highlights Updated

Regularly review and update your highlights to reflect your latest offerings, promotions, or important announcements. Outdated information can discourage engagement.

9. Cross-Promote Your Highlights

Promote your highlights in your Instagram Stories and posts to increase visibility. Encourage your followers to explore your highlights for a more comprehensive experience.

10. Monitor Analytics

Pay attention to the insights provided by Instagram about your highlight performance. Identify which highlights are resonating with your audience and adjust your strategy accordingly.

By implementing these tips, you can leverage Instagram Highlights to effectively grow your audience and generate leads. Remember, consistency and relevance are key to maximizing the potential of this feature. Happy highlighting!

Not sure where to begin? Reach out and let the Take Flight team help create Highights for you.

Unleashing Social Media Magic: 6 Creative Content Ideas for Small Business Success

As entrepreneurs, it's essential to not just be present on social platforms but to make an impact that resonates with your audience. To help you take your social media game to the next level, here are 6 creative and easy-to-implement content ideas that will turn heads and captivate your audience:

1. Behind-the-Scenes Sneak Peek

Pull back the curtain and showcase the human side of your business. Share behind-the-scenes glimpses of your workspace, introduce your team, or reveal the creative process behind your products or services. This approach humanizes your brand, fostering a connection with your audience that goes beyond transactions.

2. Customer Spotlights

Celebrate your customers/clients by featuring their stories, testimonials, or photos of them using your products or services. This not only highlights your satisfied customers but also encourages others to share their experiences. Consider creating a dedicated hashtag for customers to use, creating a sense of community around your brand.

3. Interactive Q&A Sessions

Break down the virtual barrier by hosting live or scheduled Q&A sessions. Invite your audience to ask questions about your business, industry, or even personal experiences. This not only provides valuable information but also humanizes your brand and builds trust. Encourage participation by offering exclusive insights or promotions during these sessions.

4. Polls and Surveys

Harness the power of your audience's opinions with polls and surveys. Pose questions related to your products, services, or industry trends. This not only engages your audience but also provides valuable insights for your business. Consider using interactive features on various social media platforms to make the experience more dynamic.

5. Themed Contests and Giveaways

Boost engagement and create excitement by hosting themed contests or giveaways. Encourage participation by asking followers to share your post, tag friends, or create user-generated content related to your brand. This not only expands your reach but also generates buzz around your products or services.

6. DIY Tutorial Series

Showcase your expertise and connect with your audience through a series of do-it-yourself (DIY) tutorials. Tailor these tutorials to highlight your products or services in a creative and informative way. For instance, if you run a bakery, create short videos demonstrating easy at-home cake decorating tips using your products. This not only provides value to your audience but also positions your brand as an authority in your niche. Keep it budget-friendly by using existing resources and simple equipment, like a smartphone and basic editing tools. Encourage followers to share their own DIY creations, fostering a sense of community and extending the reach of your content. The authenticity and practicality of these tutorials make them a unique and cost-effective way for small businesses to engage their audience. Ready to get hands-on with your content creation? Explore the endless possibilities of DIY tutorials and watch your audience connect with your brand on a whole new level.

For small business owners feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of crafting and managing engaging content, Take Flight is here to help. Whether you're looking to revamp your social media strategy, create captivating content, or have us handle the day-to-day management, our team is ready to elevate your online presence. Reach out today to start your journey toward social media success.