Harness the Power of Instagram to Build Your Brand, Part 1

As creatives, everything we do is about the visual and tactile components, which is why Instagram can serve us so well. And at this point, you’re only doing yourself a disservice if you are still avoiding it! Harnessing those visual and tactile components that Instagram offers as a platform can make engaging with your clients beneficial to your brand while also being a fun and exciting method of inspiration for yourself and your own creativity. It does not have to be as overwhelming as you may think, as long as you are taking a strategic approach. You, too, can become a master of IG and turn it into a tool of value that delivers better clients, bigger projects, more brand partnerships and visibility, all while expanding your profitability.

Build Your Bio

Sometimes the easiest place to start is from the top–literally. Your Instagram bio is the most important place to start when crafting your profile because it is where your future clients will gain the information that they need to connect themselves to you outside of the app. So your bio needs to include some very important information. 

First, it should have your location. We know that design services can be global and long-distance, but your clients will want to know where you’re based. You should also include your website in your bio so they can connect with you. Include who you are beyond design because you’re so much more than a designer. Whether you are a mother, brother, knitter, or wine aficionado, remember that you are helping your future clients to spark common interests with you when you give them that insight into yourself. A current profile picture will also help to strengthen that connection as well because you are creating a bridge from your social media presence to your real-world persona. You want to lessen that disconnect for your future clients as much as possible.

What To Post? 

So, you’ve got your Instagram bio set up–now what are you supposed to share? There are so many different types of posts that you could be making on Instagram. Not all of your Instagram posts need to be of just your interiors–even if you are just starting out and don’t have a vast portfolio to share, there are plenty of alternatively engaging posts that you can be making.

Interesting posts can come from anywhere. Think about posting the materials of design– fabrics, wood grain, lucite stone, ceramic countertops. These could be photos that are visually appealing on their own or part of a post series that celebrates and informs about the various materials of design. Another idea could be to post your greatness–your testimonials, reviews, recommendations, a client text, email, or comment. Or, post places such as design events or furniture markets. You can often get enough future content to post for six months from attending a convention such as these. Your posts don’t have to only be showcasing your completed interiors: showing your own personal side of the process can be just as exciting.
Thinking outside of the box can help you to really lean into your Instagram presence and make it into more than just another account to update. It’s an extension of yourself and a way for you to reel in your future clients to connect with you personally as well as with your creative vision. For even more tips to help you embrace Instagram, or if you just want to learn more about The Affluent Creative, check out www.melissagalt.com/ac024