Sometimes new social media networks pop up and I get excited and jump right in. Twitter was definitely that kind of case. I connected with it instantly, and immediately saw a use for it in my personal life and career. But other social media networks linger in the air for a while before I decide to jump up and grab onto the bandwagon. Instagram was one of those networks for me. Even after its $1 billion acquisition by Facebook, I still kept my distance. What was this photo sharing, sepia toning network? Did I want to use it? And for what purpose?
Well, I’ve officially jumped on the bandwagon, and in the spirit of my bandwagon jumping, I’m sharing my own demystification of Instagram with you in hopes it might help you decide whether or not you’re jumping on the Instagram-wagon as well.
What kinds of photos should I post on Instagram?
- Locations. One of the best ways to use Instagram is to combine the idea of Foursqure (where are you) and Twitter (what are you doing). You’re immediately giving your followers a visual depiction of where you are. Especially when you’re going to new and exciting places, these can be fun and easy ways to engage on Instagram and get a conversation started.
- One of a kind experiences.Let your followers have a visual depiction of something you’re seeing that no one else can see. Sunsets, amazing concert experiences, incredible meet and greets. They can bring your singular experience to your followers in a way words cannot. Olympians Instagramming their experiences were incredibly popular photos throughout the 2012 Olympics.
- Brand representations. One of the great ways to use Instagram is to connect with brands. Whether you know it or not, the brands you use say an incredible amount about you. So feel free, Instagram your Starbucks cup, your Target store, your favorite jewelry designer. It will bring you closer to those brands and give your followers insight into who you are as a personal brand.
So start photographing. Start posting. Start connecting. The only real way to demystify a social network is to jump in.
About the Author: Marcy Twete
Marcy Twete is the Founder and CEO of Career Girl Network and the author of the book “You Know Everybody! A Career Girl’s Guide to Building a Network That Works.” At Career Girl Network, Marcy provides women with information, resources, and networking to empower them in their careers and to advance the work of women in business as a whole. Prior to launching Career Girl Network, Marcy worked in numerous nonprofit organizations and as a consultant in the field of nonprofit fundraising, marketing, and community relations. Marcy is a graduate of the College of St. Benedict in St. Joseph, Minnesota, and a native of rural North Dakota. She is the Vice Chair of the Chicago Board of Directors for Step Up Women’s Network in Chicago and a member of the Advisory Board for Girls on the Run Twin Cities, and is dedicated to advancing the work of organizations that move the needle for women and girls worldwide.
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