“I’m breaking up with you.”

That’s what I recently said to Instagram.

The once-dominating app is continuing its downward spiral trend of trying to do something it’s not.

• TikTok-like feeds.

• Suggested videos that I don’t like.

• Lower engagement for creators.

These are all new things users have been verbal about wanting to return to normal - even the Kardashians.

Can Instagram Redeem Itself?

Yes, but it has to be done right.

In 2022, I was verbal about brands needing to learn how to use Instagram better, including creating a 30-Day Engagement Course.

But as the year progressed and Instagram made more changes, I realized something…

Instagram lost touch with their majority of users.

While Instagram was spending time and resources to mimic TikTok and create new tools for creators.

By The Numbers:

• There are 2 Billion Monthly Active Users on Instagram

• There are 200 Million Businesses on Instagram

  1

• There are 500,000 “Creators” on Instagram

  2

Read that again 👇

There are 500,000 “Creators” on Instagram

That’s it. Only 0.025% of ALL users are “Creators” on Instagram.

I’ve found a lot of changes have been catering to creators instead of the masses.

Now’s a crucial time for Instagram to save itself before they lose its priority in the social lineup.

My 4 Ways To Save Instagram:

It’s tough for me to understand why Instagram needs to spend resources creating so many features for “creators.”

Instead, let’s focus on a balanced experience for everyone; users, businesses, and creators.

1. Give 20% More Reach

For years accounts/brands focused on gaining followers.

Now, it feels like it doesn't matter.

Balancing the "reach" should be a big priority. As brands can't gain traction like they are required to.

2. Encourage More Following

Instagram is constantly suggesting new content that gains shares/likes.

But what about suggesting following that account?

Instagram should make "following" more prominent for creators and businesses.

3. Improve Ads…A Lot

This would go along with point #1.

If brands get more organic reach to their followers, prompting them to "advertise" to the rest of their followers would be good.

This should be an easy option to allow brands to quickly "boost" their post to followers only.

4. Bring back the "insta" part of it.

Stories are ok. Notes are terrible.

DMs are where it's at right now.

Instagram has to bring the "instant" moment back to the app. Users should want to share what they do in DMs, not just Reels they find funny.

How would you fix Instagram? Tell me in the comments!

Leave a comment

Lessons Learned this week:

1. Taking a week off is healthy for your soul

2. Despite being 30+ years old, I can still rip up a mountain (see more)

3. Be prepared for road trips - you never know when you may need water

👩🏻‍🏫 What I consumed this week…

• Huddle Up
  : New MLB Rules Speed Up America's Pastime

• Google Uncomplicated
  : Value of Using QR Codes

• The Push
  : Want to become a runner? Here's how to start.

My Tweet of the Week:

Virginia Buechel @buewho

I used to doubt affiliate marketing. But that's because I was ignorant. I've already 2x my clicks in 2 months. 👇 here's how I got started

7:03 PM ∙ Feb 28, 2023