If you're asking what Instagram is, you're doing social media wrong. Why? Because Instagram is the second most used social media platform in the United States. With 500 million active daily users and more than 800 million monthly users, it's a major platform.
The best news for independent insurance agents? It's not saturated yet.
First, the rules. You need a Facebook business page to start an Instagram business page. You’ll also need a mobile phone with the Instagram app to get started.
Other than that, all you need is creativity and ideas.
Did you know? When you post to Instagram, it also allows you to share that post to your Facebook page and Twitter feed. That means you can post to three accounts at once!
If you’re still wondering how your agency can use Instagram, start with this blog post. For posting ideas, read on!
1. Welcome to Instagram
Is this your first post ever? Welcome your agency to Instagram. Take a group picture of everyone in your office. Then, decorate it with text that says We're on Instagram.
If you share this to other social media platforms, add your Instagram handle so people can follow you. Also include hashtags like #instanewbie or #firstpost.
2. Meet Our Team Monday
Create and use hashtags to categorize your posts. For example, try #MeetOurTeamMonday to introduce your team to followers.
Pick one person from your agency every Monday, and post their photo. Add a caption with a short bio. This helps people put faces to names and builds a personal connection.
3. Pick a Day, Any Day
Every day of the year can have a theme or holiday associated with it. On the day I'm writing this, it's National Camera Day. Search the web for a list of the month’s unofficial holidays. Decorate the post accordingly, and don't forget the hashtag.
4. Fun Fact Friday
There are probably a lot people who don’t know about your agency. But, there are even more who don’t know about insurance. Post a well-designed fact about either your agency or insurance as a whole. It can be interesting and educational.
5. Community Happenings
Anything happening in your community? There's always a 5k fundraiser happening somewhere! If your agency sponsors or attends local events, post about it. It’s a good idea to post pictures from outside the office once in a while.
Bonus: Office Closures
Did you make sure your customers know your office is closed for the 4th of July holiday? Instagram, along with your agency’s other social media pages, is an easy place to let your customers know you're closed.
A Few Other Tips & Tricks
As I mentioned earlier, hashtags are a must. It's how people find your posts and relate to them. It's also how you gain more followers. Make one for your agency and use it.
- #dohertyinsurance
- #allstateinsurance or #areyouingoodhands
If you're worried about being creative, Instagram has plenty of features to make your photos amazing. Check out this blog post for in-depth tips on creating graphics you can share to Instagram. And, instead of using boring stock photography, check out Pexels and Unsplash for some beautiful free photos.
Finally, I picked some agencies from hashtag searches that do a good job with Instagram. Use them as inspiration. Look through their feeds and take note of what you like.
- https://www.instagram.com/britebeeco/
- https://www.instagram.com/dohertyinsurance/
- https://www.instagram.com/frontrowinsurance/
Remember, everything good takes time. You won't get a million followers day one. But, keep posting and stick with it!
About the Author
Jayci Morrison is a design and media specialist on ITC's Insurance Website Builder team. She's responsible for giving each website its distinctive look and then bringing that look to life. She also has a hand in creating AgencyBuzz email templates, ITC marketing collateral, and any other design needs the team has. When she's not staring at a computer screen, she can be found anywhere outdoors with her husband and their two dogs.
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