Want more followers on Instagram?

Then let’s use the power of working together.  This e-newsletter goes to a good few thousand people.

Send me a reply and let me know your Insta handle. I will follow you AND we will also do another newsletter which features all the handles I’ve been sent so that everyone else can follow you too. And we can all agree to follow each other.  I know from experience that the mutual support within the Scottish and British rural sectors is phenomenal so let’s prove it!

STEP ONE, please follow us/me on Insta. As bona fide Insta addicts, we have quite a few accounts (!) but we’d appreciate a follow for them all:

• @sceneherdpr – obvious!
• @on_farmuk – the OnFARM podcast
• @onrecordmemories – our audio memories project
• @scottish_farmhouse – that’s my account at home on the farm
• @wheatrigbusiness – our home diversification

STEP TWO

Hit reply to this email NOW and send me your handle(s) so that I can share them in a forthcoming newsletter with all our other readers

STEP THREE

Read on for another 5 tips on how you can grow your Instagram following:

1. Consistent, High-Quality Content
‍Posting regularly helps keep your business visible, but it’s the quality that drives engagement. Invest time in creating visually appealing, on-brand posts that reflect your business. Use high-quality images or videos, and don’t be afraid to experiment with Instagram Stories, Reels, or carousels to mix things up. Consistency helps build trust, and compelling content encourages shares and follows.

‍2. Engage with Your Audience
‍Engagement is key to building a loyal following. Respond to comments, direct messages, and mentions to show followers you’re active and approachable. Start conversations by asking questions in your captions or using interactive features like polls and quizzes in Instagram Stories. The more interaction you create, the more visible your content becomes.

‍3. Use Relevant Hashtags
‍Hashtags help users discover your posts. Research and use hashtags that are popular within your industry, community, or niche, as well as specific tags that directly relate to the content you’re sharing. Aim for a mix of broad and targeted hashtags (such as location-based tags) to attract a relevant audience.

‍4. Collaborate with Other Businesses or Influencers
‍Partnering with other businesses or local influencers is a great way to tap into new audiences. Consider doing shout-outs, giveaways, or joint promotions with partners who share your target market. Influencers, especially micro-influencers, can bring exposure and credibility by recommending your business to their followers.

‍5. Run Instagram Ads or Promotions
‍While organic growth is important, a small investment in Instagram Ads can help boost visibility, especially if your audience isn’t yet familiar with your brand. Instagram’s ad platform allows you to target specific demographics, interests, and behaviours, ensuring you reach potential followers who are more likely to be interested in your business.

‍6. Remember to 'Cross Pollinate'!
‍Remind Twitter/X, LinkedIn and Facebook followers that you're on Instagram.  Put your Insta handle in your email signature and on point of sale literature.  And don't forget to showcase your top product in our forthcoming Rural Gift Guide (submit your details here: tinyurl.com/RuralGiftGuide)!  

By focusing on authentic engagement and creating content that resonates with your target audience, you’ll naturally grow your Instagram following over time.

Good luck and don’t forget to send over your handles for me to share.

Anna

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