Why You Should Switch to an Instagram Business Account

02/09/2019 | Share:

As one of the world’s most popular social media platforms, Instagram boasts a user base of over 1 billion active accounts each month. In fact, over 80% of Instagram users follow at least one brand, making it a critical tool for ecommerce businesses looking to reach new audiences, drive engagement, and increase sales. However, to leverage Instagram effectively for business, switching from a personal Instagram account to an Instagram business account is essential. This upgrade provides access to valuable tools designed for social media marketing success. In this article, we’ll explore the many benefits of an Instagram business account, how to set one up, and why your business can’t afford to miss out on the advantages it offers.

Expanded Profile and Contact Options: The Power of the Instagram Business Profile

A business Instagram account comes with unique Instagram features tailored specifically to help brands engage with potential customers and enhance their online presence. When you switch to a business profile, you unlock the ability to add details to your Instagram profile that are otherwise unavailable on personal accounts.

First, you’ll be able to select a business category that best describes your industry, which helps Instagram users immediately recognise what your brand offers. Additionally, you gain the option to add contact buttons directly to your profile. These contact options include phone, email, and even a location feature for directions, ideal for companies with a physical store. Adding these details makes it incredibly convenient for followers and customers to connect with you.

A business Instagram profile also allows you to add a single Instagram bio link. While it’s just one link, using it strategically can make all the difference in conversions. Consider linking to a shoppable post, your ecommerce site, or a landing page for current promotions. This feature, combined with a business profile, transforms your Instagram presence into a direct avenue for sales and engagement.

Instagram Insights: In-Depth Data for Informed Decisions

One of the most valuable tools exclusive to Instagram business accounts is Instagram Insights, a powerful analytics feature designed to help brands understand their audience and measure Instagram performance. With Instagram Insights, you can access detailed data on each post, from reach and impressions to interactions, enabling you to gauge which posts resonate most with your audience.

When you view insights on an individual Instagram post, you can see metrics like reach, impressions, and profile visits, giving you a clearer picture of how your followers engage with your content. The Insights dashboard also includes demographic details about your followers, such as age, gender, and location, which are invaluable for shaping your social media strategy.

For businesses, Instagram Insights go beyond just posts—they also extend to Instagram stories, allowing you to view data on how many users view, exit, or navigate through your stories. This data can guide your posting schedule, helping you post consistently when engagement is highest. Armed with these insights, business accounts can fine-tune their content and optimise their approach to grow and engage their Instagram followers effectively.

Instagram Shopping: Transforming Your Feed into a Virtual Storefront

For ecommerce brands, Instagram Shopping is a game-changer. Available only with a business account, Instagram Shopping allows you to create shoppable posts that turn your feed into an interactive storefront. After linking your Instagram business account with your ecommerce platform, you can tag products directly in your posts, just as you would tag people on a personal Instagram profile.

Once set up, users who view a shoppable post can tap on it to see product details and pricing, then proceed to your ecommerce site to complete their purchase. This feature eliminates the need to leave the Instagram app, creating a seamless shopping experience. For ecommerce brands, this is especially useful for launching new products or promoting special offers.

By creating a shoppable feed, you allow customers to discover and purchase products directly from their Instagram account, making Instagram Shopping a powerful tool to increase sales and engagement. If your ecommerce brand is looking to connect with Instagram users who are ready to shop, setting up Instagram Shopping on a business profile is essential.

Instagram Ads: Boosting Reach and Engagement Through Targeted Advertising

Another significant advantage of Instagram business accounts is access to Instagram ads. While a personal account can only organically reach its followers, Instagram business profiles can use paid ads to expand their audience. By linking your business Instagram account with your Facebook business page, you unlock Facebook’s extensive advertising platform, which includes detailed targeting options, customisable budgets, and powerful analytics to help you optimise ad campaigns.

Whether you choose to promote an existing Instagram post or create a custom ad, Instagram ads offer flexibility to suit different marketing goals. You can target specific demographics, locations, and interests, ensuring your message reaches your target audience. With customisable call-to-action buttons, these ads encourage viewers to take action, whether it’s visiting your website, viewing a product, or following your page.

For brands looking to increase visibility, drive website traffic, or promote products to a new audience, Instagram advertising is a key feature to leverage. Using Instagram ads alongside organic content on your Instagram business profile gives you the best chance of reaching both current and potential followers effectively.

How to Switch to an Instagram Business Account

Creating an Instagram business account is simple. Start by opening the Instagram app and navigating to your profile page. Tap the menu in the upper right corner, then go to “Settings” and “Account Settings.” From there, select “Switch to Business Account.” Instagram will prompt you to complete a few additional steps, such as linking to your Facebook business page and choosing a business category. Once completed, you’ll have access to a full suite of Instagram features that help you manage, promote, and grow your brand’s presence.

Conclusion: Why an Instagram Business Account Is Essential for Brand Success

Switching from a personal Instagram account to a business Instagram account is more than just a platform upgrade—it’s a crucial step for brands serious about growing their social presence and driving sales. With advanced tools like Instagram Insights, Instagram Shopping, and Instagram ads, a business account helps you build a professional profile that connects directly with your target audience. If your brand is looking to increase visibility, improve engagement, or simplify the shopping experience for your Instagram followers, an Instagram business profile provides all the tools you need for effective social media marketing.

Make the switch today and unlock the full potential of Instagram for your business. For additional support in managing your online sales, Ogden Fulfilment offers expert fulfilment services designed to help ecommerce brands thrive.