In 2015, Instagram was the fastest growing social media network. Many users who were not previously using it as part of their social media platform, saw its importance and quickly signed on. The year 2016 promises to be even bigger for Instagram. So, if you never got around to adding it to your social media in 2015, make sure you add it immediately so you do not get left behind.
Numbers Don’t Lie…
Some people need to see the numbers before they are convinced that anything, especially a social media platform, is on the rise. Too many times we have been left holding the bag for the next-up-and-coming social network and find we have wasted valuable time learning and utilizing a platform that will only join the ranks of MySpace. However, if we allow those fears to run all of our decisions, we will miss the opportunities that the true rising sites have to offer.
To help curb those fears, here are some numbers regarding the expectations of Instagram in 2016. Instagram is expected to see 15% growth in 2016 and another 11% in 2017. As of today, there are 400 million Instagram users. Those 400 million users are “liking” over 2.5 billion photos daily. More than half of the users are under 29 and 62% of those users are teenagers. Instagram also offers 58 times more unpaid interactions than Facebook. These were the numbers at year end in 2015.
Imagine what 15% growth will look like for Instagram in 2016? Now imagine your business getting just a fraction of that growth, and how huge that could be for your company’s brand and total exposed? Again, 2016 is the time to get in the Instagram game.
What Does That Mean for You?
These numbers show that while Instagram may not be the best platform for every business, those that are looking to market to the coveted 18 to 25-year-old demographic, must be on Instagram if they want the best chance at improving their business. In addition, those whose businesses have seen success from Facebook and Twitter campaigns will see even larger success by adding Instagram to their social media arsenal.
That being said, Instagram users are very particular about who and what they choose to follow. Many wish to see a personal side of the companies they choose to follow and shy away from Instagram accounts that are too business-oriented.
This is why it is important to hire a social media marketing specialist to navigate Instagram and make it work for your business. A social media expert will know how to showcase your business and work the nuances, that make Instagram so successful. Businesses must walk a fine line when advertising on this platform to ensure that young users do not skip over their posts because they seem too much like advertisements. Instagram is very successful because it offers an interactive platform that is both personal and intriguing.
When looking for social media experts to help you navigate Instagram and make it work for your business, contact Skol Marketing at info@skolmarketing.com. The team at Skol Marketing will help develop and maintain your Instagram campaign to help ensure you are not left behind in this rising marketplace.
