The Ultimate Guide for Law Firms on Instagram
Today, social media is a must-have for law firms to boost their online presence, connect with clients, and attract new business opportunities.
Platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn have been popular options for years, but Instagram has become a powerful tool for law firm marketing in recent years for a variety of reasons.
Instagram's unique blend of video and image-based content makes it a perfect place to showcase your firm's values, expertise, and success stories, and connect with both potential clients and employees.
In this blog post, we'll explore some key strategies and techniques to effectively use Instagram as a marketing tool for your law firm.
Establishing an Engaging Instagram Presence
Start by creating a professional Instagram profile that reflects your law firm's brand. Use a high-quality profile picture and write an interesting bio that communicates your firm's expertise and what makes you unique.
Consistent branding, tone, and visuals will help you build credibility and attract followers, so consider how to use elements like Stories Highlights to tell deeper stories about the firm, what it's like to work there, and the kind of work you do.
Create Eye-Catching Content
Instagram is a platform where being creative can pay off in spades.
Think about creating eye-catching graphics, videos, and infographics that offer valuable legal insights, answer common legal questions, or showcase recent case successes. Don't be afraid to play with colour, different template types and video cuts, and jump on trending Reels that fit the firm's brand.
Enhance your posts with thought-provoking captions and questions to increase engagement, and use targeted hashtags that help users who fit your ideal follower profile or live in your area find you.
Humanizing Your Firm
Instagram gives you a chance to show the human side of your firm by sharing the personalities and stories behind its legal expertise.
Give glimpses behind the scenes of your firm's culture, introduce your team members, highlight community involvement, and talk about philanthropic initiatives. This helps build trust, create personal connections, and set your firm apart from the competition.
Use Client Testimonials as Social Proof
User-generated content (UGC) can be a powerful tool for law firms to increase brand reach and credibility.
Encourage your clients and followers to share their positive experiences with your firm and tag your Instagram handle in their posts.
Repost and acknowledge these testimonials, client success stories, or reviews on your firm's feed.
Grow Your Community
Engaging with potential clients and industry influencers can help expand your reach and establish your law firm as a reliable authority.
Regularly interact with your followers by responding to comments, direct messages, and mentions. Join legal conversations, provide concise legal advice where appropriate, and share your expertise in response to relevant inquiries.
Collaborate with Influencers
Partnering with influencers can be a great way to amplify your firm's reach and visibility, and increase brand awareness with a wider audience.
Identify influencers in the legal or related industries who have a significant following and share your firm's values.
Collaborate with them to create content, conduct interviews, or host live discussions to share insights and expertise.
Run Targeted Instagram Ads
Instagram advertising can help law firms reach a more specific audience and generate leads.
Use Instagram's ad targeting features to tailor your ads to specific demographics, locations, or interests relevant to your target audience.
Promote content like legal guides, webinars, or upcoming events to actively engage potential clients. Make sure to regularly monitor your ad performance and make adjustments to optimize their effectiveness.
Instagram has evolved into a valuable marketing platform for law firms, offering a unique opportunity to connect with clients, showcase expertise, and stand out from the competition.
Now that we've talked about how to get started on the platform, let's dig into one of the most valuable ways your firm can use Instagram: as a tool for recruiting and retention!
How Law Firms Can Use Instagram for Recruiting and Retention
In addition to its marketing potential, Instagram can be a valuable tool for law firms when it comes to recruiting and retaining top talent, especially among the younger generation who are active users of the platform.
By leveraging Instagram's features and engaging with potential candidates, your firm can enhance its recruitment efforts and use the platform to showcase a positive and engaging work environment that fosters employee satisfaction and retention.
Not sure how to get started? Try these tips:
Showcase Firm Culture and Values
Think about the best aspects of working at your firm and use them as the pillars of your content strategy on the platform.
Share photos and videos highlighting team-building activities, social events, community involvement, and any unique perks or benefits that set your firm apart.
You can attract candidates who resonate with your firm's values by portraying an inclusive, collaborative, and supportive work atmosphere.
Share Attorney Spotlights and Success Stories
Highlighting the accomplishments and stories of your attorneys can be an effective way to attract talent and establish your firm's credibility.
Create regular attorney spotlights that delve into their professional achievements, career progression, and notable cases.
Showcase diverse career paths and success stories to demonstrate growth opportunities within your firm. This type of content appeals to potential candidates and reinforces a sense of pride and loyalty among existing employees.
Engage with Law Students and Young Professionals
Law students and young professionals often turn to Instagram for networking and career insights.
Engaging with this demographic by sharing valuable resources, hosting Q&A sessions, or providing career advice can help your firm build relationships and attract promising talent.
Consider partnering with law schools, legal organizations, or influential legal professionals to provide internship opportunities, mentorship programs, or educational content. This proactive engagement demonstrates your firm's commitment to fostering the growth and development of aspiring legal professionals.
Share Employee Takeovers and Behind-the-Scenes Content
Empower your staff to take over your firm's Instagram account for a day to provide an authentic look into their roles and workdays.
This behind-the-scenes content gives potential candidates a firsthand glimpse of the firm's work dynamics and helps them picture themselves as part of the team.
Encourage employees to share their experiences, challenges, and achievements, showcasing the diversity of roles and the rewarding nature of working at your firm.
Share Employee Testimonials and Reviews
Like client testimonials, featuring employee testimonials and reviews can be a powerful tool in attracting top talent.
Encourage your team members to share their experiences, growth opportunities, and job satisfaction through Reels.
These testimonials and stories should highlight their personal and professional development within the firm and emphasize your law firm's supportive and nurturing environment.
Seeing happy, engaged team members can significantly influence the decision-making process of potential candidates and enhance employee retention by reinforcing a positive company culture.
Showcase Professional Development Opportunities
Attract ambitious and growth-oriented candidates by highlighting ongoing professional development initiatives, like training programs, workshops, or conferences.
This showcases your firm's commitment to investing in its employees' continuous learning and skill enhancement, shows that your firm values professional growth, and is willing to provide opportunities for career advancement.
Start Sharing Your Law Firm's Content on Instagram Today
As we've seen, Instagram can be a valuable tool for law firms to stand out from the competition, attract diverse and ambitious new team members, and create cross-promotional opportunities by partnering with law schools, legal organizations, or influential legal professionals.
Incorporating Instagram into your firm's marketing and recruitment strategy can help you create lasting connections with your ideal clients and with talented individuals who will contribute to your firm's growth.
Looking for more guides and insights to help your law firm think differently about your digital marketing? Subscribe to our weekly digital marketing newsletter or contact us today to talk about how we can partner with your firm to stand out online.
29 Blog Post Ideas to Attract Your Ideal Customers
Blogging consistently is…hard. Carving out the time to write, sourcing (or taking) photos, unscrambling your thoughts, researching your topic, writing new versions of the blog to promote on your other channels, and possibly the hardest part: deciding on a topic.
Blogs are also a powerful tool for small businesses. They can reduce overall marketing costs, build trust with potential customers, boost SEO, generate leads, and gain exposure. When you demonstrate your expertise through blog posts, you establish yourself as an expert in your field.
By creating a blog that resonates with your target audience and delivers valuable information, you can establish your brand as a trusted resource and attract more customers who are interested in your products or services.
We like to look at blogs as an opportunity to create buzzworthy content that can gain exposure on social media. Plus, itâs a great way to force yourself to stay up-to-date with industry trends.
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So, if youâve told yourself 100 times that youâre going to commit to blogging this year and youâve come down with a case of the quiet cursor — weâve been there. And weâre betting thatâs pretty high on the list of reasons why you arenât blogging. Weâve got your back. Read this list of 29 blog post ideas to attract your ideal customers. Itâll help.
Thought Leadership Posts
1. Industry News and Trends
When you are swamped with work, the last thing you have time to do is look for new trends. Blogging about industry trends forces you to do your research and share your insights and opinions on how these changes could impact your customers.
2. Industry Event Coverage
Turn the last industry event you went to into a blog. Cover your takeaways, key learnings, and stories from the day with your readers. This also doubles as a journal for yourself to remember the event in the future. Make sure to write it while itâs still fresh in your mind and timely for your readers.
3. Pros and Cons
Choose a subject that resonates with your audience. Walk them through the advantages and disadvantages, enabling your readers to make an informed decision.
4. Industry Predictions
Predict future trends or changes in your industry, positioning your business as a thought leader and influencer.
Practical Posts
5. FAQs
Letâs start with an easy one that can probably be repurposed into several blogs. Think about all the questions you are frequently asked and answer them in a blog — these should also live on a special spot on your website.
6. How-To Guides
These are so helpful! Provide your readers with practical, step-by-step guides that help them solve problems or accomplish specific tasks related to your products or services. Plus, making a TikTok or Reel to accompany this blog is easy.
7. Case Studies
Show off your skills! Demonstrate how your products or services have helped your customers achieve their goals.
8. Product Reviews
Review products related to your industry. Provide value to your readers with an in-depth analysis of the pros and cons of new products and whether they're worth the investment.
9. Infographics
If you — or your customers are visual learners, then use an infographic to tell your information. Canva makes that super easy. Plug in your fonts, colours, and logos and choose one of their many templates. Just fill in your own information and download!
10. Q&A Sessions
Turn an Instagram Live/TikTok Live, etc. session into a blog. Compile a list of questions from your customers, giving your readers the opportunity to ask questions and get answers.
11. Myth Busters
Compile a list of misconceptions about your industry and clear them up for your audience.
12. Lists
Anything. People love a list. Top 10s. Best of X.
13. Pick a Pop Culture Moment and Tie It To Your Biz
We do this a lot in the form of memes, but it works in blog format too.
Personal Posts
14. Behind-The-Scenes Look
Give your readers a sneak peek into your biz when you share BTS stories about your team, processes, and operations. We love this one because it also adds human connection to your brand.
15. Life or Career Hacks
You have a unique perspective on your business. Whatâs something you live by that makes a big difference in your business?
16. Things You Wish You Knew When You Started
Something most business owners can relate to is that they have failed. Probably a lot. If you could go back in time and tell the little you that was just starting out a little bit of advice, what would it be?
17. Motivational Tips
Times are tough. Sometimes a little guidance goes a long way. Share tips people can use to get them through challenges. Bonus points if you add personal experience.
18. History Lesson
Is there a particular history behind something you do? How about the building you work in or a product you use? Share it with your readers.
19. Feature Your Team
Give your audience a chance to connect with your team members. This blog can be a great way to show your team that they are appreciated.
20. The Why Behind What You Do
If you are passionate about your business, let your audience know why. When your audience knows they are supporting someone who loves what they do, it makes them want to support you more. Itâs a win-win!
21. Book Suggestions For Your Industry
Who doesnât love a good book?! Include key takeaways, quotes you loved, and maybe even a link to a local bookstore. ) (1).png)
Strategy Posts
22. The Ultimate A-Z on XYZ
Create a comprehensive guide covering all aspects of a specific topic in your blog post, ensuring that your readers can get all the information they need without looking elsewhere. Nowadays, you can find almost anything on the internet if you look in the right places. Donât worry about giving away too much information because itâs likely already out there. People may as well find it on your page. Make the post as extensive as possible to provide a one-stop resource for your readers.
23. Seasonal Content
Do you have new products in the summer? How about holiday gift guides? Back-to-school tips? Make a list of content ideas you would like to share over specific holidays, and your future self will thank you!
24. Guest Posts
Invite industry experts or thought leaders to contribute to your blog, providing your readers with fresh perspectives and insights.
25. Share Your Vision/Mission Statement
Transparency in business is key. If youâre just in it to âmake money,â thatâs boring and unlikely to fulfill your life — or your teamâs. Get everyone on the same page so you can work toward a common goal. You can use this as your yearly goal-setting guide too!
26. Ask Your Readers What They Want
You can do this in a social media post, over the phone, or with a customer you are emailing. They probably will come up with something tey are curious about in your industry right away!
27. Ask Your Team
Your team is your most precious resource — if you have one. They probably have great ideas about what to post, or at least can share their insights on their expertise!
28. Explain an Idea in a New Way
Did you have a blog post that performed really well? Why donât you share the same information in a new way? Be sure to space it out from the last similar blog, but this is a great way to get new eyes on your page with the content you know people enjoy!
29. Research Your Competitors
Donât copy them, but … get some inspiration.
You can boost your blog's following by producing content that strikes a chord with your target audience. Maintaining consistency with your brand's tone and message is crucial while providing content that enriches your readers' lives.
Having said that, we get it. When you're busy running your business, finding the time to brainstorm new ideas and craft high-quality blog posts is tough. The good news is that we can do it for you. Send us an email to get started on your marketing efforts with Starling Social today!
How to Write Scroll-Stopping LinkedIn Posts
LinkedIn has become an invaluable tool for B2B businesses looking to reach and engage with their target audience.
With over 750 million members worldwide, the platform gives businesses a unique opportunity to connect with professionals in their industry, share valuable insights, and build relationships that can lead to new customers and increased revenue.
In this blog post, we'll be sharing how to write LinkedIn posts that convert customers, and providing you with tips and strategies to create engaging content that resonates with your audience and drives conversions.
Why LinkedIn Is a Valuable Tool for B2B Businesses
LinkedIn is the go-to social media platform for professionals, making it an ideal platform for B2B businesses to connect with potential customers.
Unlike other social media platforms, LinkedIn is designed specifically for networking and professional development, making it an ideal platform for businesses to build relationships with other professionals in their industry.
LinkedIn provides businesses with several tools and features to help them reach their target audience, including creating and sharing content, joining groups and communities, and connecting with other professionals.
With so many professionals using LinkedIn every day, it gives businesses a unique opportunity to reach a highly engaged and receptive audience.
As one of the largest professional social networks, LinkedIn offers an effective way to connect with like-minded individuals, grow your network, and share your ideas with the world. One way to do this is through timeline posts, which are short updates on your profile and your connections' timelines.
Whatâs the Difference Between a LinkedIn Timeline Post and a LinkedIn Article?
LinkedIn timeline posts are short updates that you can share with your network. They are typically several sentences long and include text, images, videos, or links.
These posts appear on your profile and the timelines of your connections.
In contrast, LinkedIn articles are longer-form content you can publish on the platform. They are similar to blog posts and can include images, videos, and other media. LinkedIn articles are published on your profile and can be shared with your network.
How to Write Effective LinkedIn Posts
To help you navigate the LinkedIn algorithm and get the most out of your timeline posts, here are some timeline best practices:
Be Personable
Nobody wants to read stuffy business updates all the time. Write timeline posts that are thoughtful, relatable, and help your followers get to know you better.
Know Your Audience
To write a compelling LinkedIn timeline post, you need to know your audience. Think about who your connections are, what they're interested in, and what kind of content they're likely to engage with. Use this information to craft posts that resonate with your audience.
Donât bury the lede
The first 140 characters of your post is what people will see when theyâre scrolling. Use attention-grabbing text and emojis to entice people to click to expand your post and read more.
Keep It Short + Sweet
LinkedIn timeline posts are meant to be short and to the point. If you're writing a longer update, use bullet points or numbered lists to break up longer text.
Include Visuals
Visuals are a great way to grab people's attention and make your posts more engaging. Use high-quality images, videos, or infographics to illustrate your points and make your posts more visually appealing.
Use Hashtags
Hashtags are a great way to make your posts more discoverable. Use relevant hashtags to help people find your posts when they search for specific topics.
Engage With Your Audience
Finally, make sure to engage with your audience! Social media isnât a soapbox, so donât sleep on responding to comments and questions, and use your posts as an opportunity to start conversations with your connections.
LinkedIn Timeline Post Best Practices
To help you navigate the LinkedIn algorithm and get the most out of your timeline posts, here are some timeline best practices:
Create Engaging Content
The LinkedIn algorithm favours content that generates engagement. The more likes, comments, and shares your post gets, the more likely it is to appear in people's timelines.
To create engaging content, focus on topics that are relevant to your audience and provide value. Pay attention to the posts that do well and lean into topics and themes that get the most engagement.
Post at the Right Time
Timing is critical on LinkedIn. You want to post when your audience is most active. According to Hootsuite, the best times to post on LinkedIn are Tuesday through Thursday between 8 am and 2 pm. However, testing different posting times is important to see what works best for your audience.
Use Hashtags
As I said before, hashtags are a powerful tool on LinkedIn. They make it easier for people to discover your content and join relevant conversations. When you use hashtags, make sure they are relevant to your post and your audience.
Engage with Your Audience
Engagement is a two-way street on LinkedIn. If you want people to engage with your content, you need to engage with theirs. Take the time to respond to comments and start conversations. You can also tag people in your posts to encourage them to engage with your content.
Build Relationships
LinkedIn is all about building relationships. Connect with people in your industry and engage with their content. You can also join groups and participate in discussions to expand your network. Building relationships takes time, but it's essential for long-term success on the platform.
Start Creating Scroll-Stopping LinkedIn Posts Today!
LinkedIn timeline posts are a great way to share updates, thoughts, and insights with your network. To create compelling timeline posts, know your audience, use attention-grabbing headlines, keep it short and sweet, include visuals, use hashtags, and engage with your audience.
By following these tips, you can create scroll-stopping LinkedIn timeline posts that will help you grow your network and share your ideas with the world.
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How to Do a SWOT Analysis for Your Digital Marketing
Looking for ways to build a better digital marketing strategy? Consider doing a SWOT analysis!
A SWOT analysis is an invaluable tool for businesses looking to maximize their digital marketing efforts and increase their ROI.
By developing a deeper understanding of whatâs working (and what isnât), you can make more informed decisions about how to optimize your campaigns and reach your growth goals.
What is a SWOT Analysis?
A SWOT analysis is a strategic planning tool whose acronyms stand for:
- Strengths
- Weaknesses
- Opportunities
- Threats
Itâs a great way for companies to take a step back, analyze their current situation, and identify areas for improvement and growth.
A SWOT analysis can be applied in a variety of settings, but when it comes to digital marketing, it can be used to understand the current digital environment better, and identify areas where the business may have an advantage or disadvantage.
This analysis can help businesses figure out which digital marketing channels are most effective, and which need improvement.
It can also be used to identify potential opportunities and threats that could affect the success of the current digital marketing strategy.
SWOT Protip
When doing your SWOT analysis, start with Opportunities and Threats, then take what youâve learned and apply it to your Strengths and Weaknesses
A lot of people start by just looking at Strengths and Weaknesses because it comes first in the acronym, but doing it in this order allows you to respond to the opportunities and threats with data and strategy!
How to Do a SWOT Analysis for Your Digital Marketing Strategy
Step 1: Identify Your Strengths
The first step in conducting a SWOT analysis is to identify the strengths of your digital marketing strategy.
This includes looking at things like your website, content, social media presence, SEO efforts, and any other digital marketing activities youâre currently engaged in.
Ask yourself questions like:
- What advantages do I have over my competitors?
- What digital marketing activities are working well for me?
- What resources do I have that my competitors donât?
- What unique skills or expertise do I have that gives me an advantage?
Step 2: Identify Your Weaknesses
The next step is to identify the weaknesses of your digital marketing strategy.
This includes looking at things like website design, content quality, social media engagement, and any other digital marketing activities youâre currently engaged in.
Ask yourself questions like:
- What areas of my digital marketing strategy are lacking?
- What resources do I need to improve my digital marketing efforts?
- What skills or expertise do I need to develop?
- What areas of my digital marketing are not performing as well as they should be?
Step 3: Identify the Opportunities
The third step in a SWOT analysis is to identify the opportunities available to you.
This includes looking at things like new digital marketing channels, emerging technologies, and any other opportunities that could help you improve your digital marketing efforts.
Ask yourself questions like:
- What new digital marketing channels could I use to reach my target audience?
- What new technologies could I use to improve my digital marketing efforts?
- What partnerships or collaborations could I pursue to further my digital marketing goals?
- What trends or developments could I capitalize on to further my digital marketing efforts?
Step 4: Identify the Threats
The last step in conducting a SWOT analysis is to identify the threats to your digital marketing efforts.
This includes looking at things like competitors, changing digital landscapes, and any other threats that could impact your digital marketing strategy.
Ask yourself questions like:
- How are my competitors using digital marketing to their advantage?
- What changes in the digital landscape could affect my digital marketing efforts?
- What new technologies could disrupt my digital marketing strategy?
- What new regulations or policies could limit my digital marketing efforts?
SWOT Analysis: Your Key to Digital Marketing Success
A SWOT analysis is a great way to gain a better understanding of your digital marketing strategy and identify areas for improvement and growth.
By taking the time to identify your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats, you can develop a more effective digital marketing strategy and maximize the success of your digital marketing efforts.
Still not sure where to start? Drop us a line and letâs talk about how a digital marketing audit can benefit your business!
8 Thoughtful Ways to Celebrate Pride Month 2023
The sun is out, the flowers are blooming, and thatâs the first signal that Pride month is just around the corner.
Canadaâs Pride is a celebration of the LGBTQ2S+ community and their achievements, struggles, and contributions to our society. Toronto held the first Pride event in Canada in 1971, and since then, itâs become louder and prouder. June is filled with parades, marches, rallies, parties, drag brunches, and other cultural activities that bring together LGBTQ2S+ individuals, allies, and organizations — it might be our favourite month of the year!
Whether you're an LGBTQ2S+ individual, an ally, or someone who just wants to show support, weâve put together a list of 8 ways you, or your business, can get involved — and 4 things to avoid.
Attend a Pride Parade
Do you like bright colours, music, dancing and floats? Attending a Pride parade is a great way to show your support for the LGBTQ2S+ community and immerse yourself in Pride's joyful, celebratory spirit.
Invest in DEI Training
If you're an employer or a business owner, consider investing in employee diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) training. DEI training can help create a more inclusive and supportive workplace for LGBTQ+ individuals and other marginalized communities.
Educate Yourself
This is your excuse to buy more books. Plenty of books, documentaries, and podcasts explore the LGBTQ2S+ experience, from the Stonewall riots to the fight for marriage equality. Learning about the struggles and achievements of the LGBTQ+ community can help you better understand and appreciate the diversity and resilience of this community. One of our favourite spots in Winnipeg is Willow Press, an LGBTQ2S+author-owned book store. Meghan also has a background in gender and sexuality education, which they use to find the best and most inclusive and empowering resources and stories for all ages.
Include Pronouns in Email Signatures
Including pronouns in email signatures is a small but important step towards promoting inclusivity. When you include your own pronouns in your email signature, you're signaling that you recognize and respect the gender identity of others, and you're making it easier for people to communicate their own pronouns. Itâs a really simple and free action to take that makes a big difference in how you show up for the people around you.
Support LGBTQ2S+ Owned Businesses
Winnipeg is full of amazing LGBTQ2S+ businesses in your community. Unfortunately, these
small businesses often face discrimination and challenges that other businesses don't. By shopping at LGBTQ2S+ businesses, you can help support the community and promote inclusivity. Luckily, all of these businesses are incredible and The Rainbow Pages has an up-to-date list of Queer-owned businesses in our community, which you can find here.
A few of our absolute favourites are:
Volunteer for an LGBTQ2S+ Organization
There are many organizations that support the LGBTQ+ community, from advocacy groups to youth centres to health clinics. Volunteering for one of these organizations is a great way to give back and show your support for the community. You can find LGBTQ2S+ organizations in your community through a quick online search or by reaching out to your local LGBTQ2S+ centre. If youâre based in Winnipeg, the Rainbow Resource Centre is currently looking for volunteers.
Share and Review Your Favourite LGBTQ2S+ Art, Music and Movies
The list of LGBTQ2S+ artists, musicians and actors that have made important contributions to their respective fields feels endless. Listening to their work, watching their movies or viewing their art can be a powerful way to connect with the community. Any time you feel like youâve found something awesome from a member of the Queer community, share it on your social platforms, show your friends, and even leave a Google Review. It all counts!
Celebrate with Friends and Family
Whether you're LGBTQ+ or an ally, Pride is a time to celebrate love, acceptance, and inclusivity. You can host a Pride-themed party, cook a rainbow-coloured meal, make a playlist that embodies the theme, or simply spend time with the people you love and appreciate.
You know weâre not all talk and no action. This year, Starling Social, Alyson Shane, is sending the team $100 in Skip the Dishes credits to spend on their favourite queer-owned businesses throughout Pride Month — keep an eye on our social pages to see their favourite spots!
We know that actions speak louder than words. And even if youâre well-intentioned, we often see businesses making big mistakes during Pride that cause harm to the LGBTQ2S+ community, and really just isnât a good look. On that note, hereâs what we are absolutely not doing in June and what you should also avoid.
Pinkwashing
While this sounds like it would be a fun thing, itâs a really lame move.
Pinkwashing refers to companies using the rainbow flag and LGBTQ2S+ themes to market their products without supporting the LGBTQ2S+ community. This can include everything from selling rainbow-themed merchandise to using LGBTQ2S+ imagery in advertising campaigns without actually donating to LGBTQ+ causes or supporting LGBTQ2S+ employees. Businesses should avoid engaging in pinkwashing and instead focus on making meaningful contributions to the LGBTQ+ community.
Treating Pride as a Marketing Opportunity
On a similar note, Pride Month is not a marketing opportunity. Donât use Pride as a way to promote your brand or products unless you have a genuine commitment to LGBTQ2S+ causes. Instead of using Pride as a way to sell products, businesses should focus on ways they can support the LGBTQ2S+ community — like using any of the ideas above.
Ignoring LGBTQ2S+ Issues Outside of Pride Month
While Pride Month is an important time to celebrate and support the LGBTQ2S+ community, it's important for businesses to remember that these issues and challenges exist year-round. Businesses should strive to promote inclusivity and support for the LGBTQ2S+ community beyond June and commit to creating a more inclusive workplace and society.
Using Stereotypes
Donât use stereotypes or caricatures of LGBTQ2S+ individuals in your marketing campaigns. This includes using phrases like "gay best friend", which can be offensive and dismissive of the experiences of LGBTQ2S+ individuals. Focus on celebrating the diversity of the community and promoting inclusivity.
As we approach another Pride Month, think about a few of the ways you or your business can commit to supporting the LGBTQ2S+ community, and re-evaluate if your current practices are still appropriate — weâre looking at you, companies who change their social media icons to a rainbow, yet make no contributions to the LGBTQ2S+ community!
Let's all celebrate Pride Month thoughtfully and respectfully, showing our support and appreciation for the community.
What North American Companies Can Learn From Japanese Ad Campaigns
If youâve ever seen a Japanese ad or commercial, youâve probably watched it and said, âwtf is thisâ — and youâre not alone.
Having just spent a month in Japan, I was struck by the stark difference between Japanese and North American advertising. Their ads often feature people in costumes, anthropomorphic items and animals, and characters making silly or exaggerated faces and sounds.
Aka, it's the complete opposite of most of the marketing campaigns I've seen here in North America.
As someone obsessed with marketing and storytelling, I loved being immersed in a different culture and seeing how Japanese brands market their products and services.
In this post, Iâll explore how North American companies can find more engaging and memorable ways to connect with their audiences by embracing silliness and being weird the way Japanese brands do.
Letâs start by comparing some ads:
Cup Noodle Japan
Predictably, Cup Noodle is a brand of instant noodles popular in Japan. I saw ads for these on subway trains all over the country, and they often involved people in weird situations interacting with a life-size cup of noodles.
Letâs start with a Japanese Cup Noodle commercial:
Now letâs take a look at an ad for instant noodles from another Japanese company thatâs targeted at North Americans, Ottogi America Inc.:
Night and day, right? While some aspects of the Japanese commercial might not necessarily land with a North American audience (the grandpa being held by a Cup Noodle angel at the end is a weird vibe), the ad is fast-paced and unpredictable and basically the opposite of what youâd expect from a company selling cups of noodles.
God of War: Ragnarok
I didnât actually see it while I was in Japan, but I wanted to include it because it does a great job of showcasing the contrast between how North Americans market something and how they do it in Japan. Check it out:
I read the Google Translate description of the video, and Iâm still not 100% sure whatâs going on here.
Now letâs compare it against the American trailer:
I actually love both versions of these ads, but the contrast is pretty stark: the North American version relies on celebrities. It comes across as more satirical (and tame) than the Japanese version.
It also portrays playing the game and dressing like Kronos as the men are trying to be better dads to their kids — framing GoW, Kronosâ beefy physique, dressing like a Viking, and playing a violent videogame as âmasculine.â
The Japanese version, by comparison, contrasts what arguably sounds like a childrenâs song against a violent, pretty macho video game.
SoftBankâs âWhite Familyâ
I donât remember where or how I discovered this series of ads back in the early 2000s, but these weird, quirky commercials stole my heart and probably set me up for the love of Japanese marketing that I still hold today.
The long-running campaign, which focused on the (Shirato) White Family headed by Otousan (âFatherâ), who is a white dog, was one of the most successful and long-running ad campaigns in the countryâs history.
As of 2012, the campaign had reached 133 âepisodes,â but here are a few to give you a sense of what theyâre like:
(Also, donât sleep on the Tommy Lee Jones cameos!)
As you can see, very few of these commercials actually talk in detail about the phone company or the plans themselves. Mostly theyâre little vignettes about the family and the things theyâre doing.
The commercials are weird, but theyâre also charming and memorable.
Now letâs look at a North American ad that also features a talking animal:
Did you notice that Geicoâs ad followed a lot of the same tropes that the SoftBank ads did?
By featuring an unusual animal who talks (and who is kind of abrasive to the humans around it, just like Otousan), they can create a quirky, memorable ad that promotes their offerings without being too heavy-handed about it.
Differences Between Japanese and North American Ads
Now that weâve looked at a few examples, letâs break down the key differences between ad styles according to research:
Style Differences
- Japanese commercials are less informative than American commercials.
- Japanese commercials emphasize product packaging and availability, while American ads emphasize price, quality, and performance.
- Japanese commercials use a soft-sell approach with short messages, songs, celebrities, female voice-overs, and still graphics.
- American commercials use a hard-sell approach with long messages, animation, male spokespeople, and humour.
Cultural Differences
- Japan is a âhigh-context societyâ whose communication needs are answered through familiar symbols and icons rather than logical recommendations.
- The US is a âlow-context cultureâ requiring Western rhetoric and logical tradition to communicate thoughts and actions.
What Can North American Brands Learn?
Be Weird
As you may have noticed, a key element of Japanese advertising is being silly and weird.
Japanese ads often feature bizarre imagery (see below for an example), unusual characters, and unexpected scenarios. By embracing the unexpected and breaking away from traditional advertising tropes, companies can create more memorable and engaging ads. Weirdness can also help companies stand out in a crowded advertising landscape.
Key takeaway: Donât be afraid to lean into weird, memorable characters or make them a bit annoying or unlikeable for the sake of the joke.
Why is that pistachio so smarmy?!)
Use a âSoft Sellâ Approach
Japanese commercials often use a soft-sell approach with short messages, songs, celebrities, female voice-overs, and still graphics.
This approach can be more subtle and less aggressive, which can be more appealing to some audiences.
Key takeaway: Avoid being too heavy-handed. Tell a story that resonates or excites your audience where the product youâre promoting comes second to a memorable ad.
Use (and Create!) Familiar Symbols and Icons
As we saw in the SoftBank ads, Otousan became something of a cultural icon in Japan. By incorporating or creating characters who can become cultural symbols (think the polar bears for Coca-Cola), campaigns become more easily recognizable and familiar to audiences.
Experiment with Pattern Interrupts and Pacing
As we saw with the Cup Noodle commercial and how a few SoftBank commercials cut between scenes, the Japanese arenât afraid to jump around.
Cutting frequently between scenes is called a âpattern interruptâ and is an effective tool (also employed by YouTubers) to keep the audienceâs attention focused on whatever theyâre watching.
Many Japanese ads also end abruptly or in weird and unexpected ways. Not knowing where the plot is going is another way of keeping viewers engaged right until the very end.
Key takeaway: Donât be afraid of experimenting with pacing and surprising your audience with a twist at the end of your ads.
Play With Satire
Although both the God of War: Ragnarok examples played with satire, the North American one played it safe by linking the GoW series to âmanlinessâ and easily identifiable gender norms.
The Japanese ad, on the other hand, threw gender norms right out the window and went with an ad that could have easily been mistaken for a kidâs commercial.
While the North American ad is fine (I liked it, personally), the Japanese sing-song ad stands out more because it almost feels like itâs making fun of the ultra-macho GoW series instead of leaning into a predictable masculine theme.
Key takeaway: Donât be afraid to lean into satire and juxtapose different elements of an ad against the product youâre promoting.
Get Inspired for Your Next Ad Campaign
Japanese advertising offers a refreshing alternative to traditional advertising, and North American companies can look to these types of ads for inspiration.
So, the next time youâre creating an ad campaign, consider adding a little bit of silliness, embracing the unexpected, and making fun of yourself and your product. Who knows, you might create an ad that people will remember for years to come.
Native Content 101: What Is Native Content, and Why You Need It
Want to increase engagement and boost your brand perception? Let's explore this impactful advertising approach: native content.
In advertising and marketing, businesses can use many strategies and techniques to promote their products and services. The largest social media platforms, like Twitter, Facebook and Instagram — as well as the publishing industry — think Wall Street Journal, New York Times, and USA Today, all integrate native ads into their platforms. And you possibly didnât even notice it!
What is Native Marketing Content?
Native content is all about blending in. We're talking seamless integration into the content your audience is already engaging with. The goal is to create an advertisement that looks and feels like it is part of the organic content rather than something that is clearly marked as an advertisement.
You can find native content in things like articles, videos and social media posts. These ads are typically labelled as sponsored or paid content, but the labelling is often subtle and may not be immediately obvious to the reader.
The host site determines how the content is displayed and where it is placed. Based on the algorithm, the host site may recommend the content to readers, which appears in the footers and sidebars of the website.
Other Names for Native Content
While native content is the most common term for this type of advertising, you might find other people referring to it as:
- Native advertising
- Zero-click content
- Sponsored content
- Promoted posts
- Branded content
- In-feed ads
- Custom content
- Paid social media
How Native Content Works
The key to native content is that it is designed to blend in with the organic content on a website or social media platform. This means that the ad must be crafted in a way that fits seamlessly with the surrounding content.
For example, a native content piece on a news website might take the form of an article or opinion piece. The article would be written like the rest of the content on the website, with an attention-grabbing headline and an engaging story.
The article might mention the promoted brand or product, but these mentions would naturally be woven into the narrative unobtrusively. The goal is to create an ad that provides value to the reader while subtly and effectively promoting the brand.
Example
This sponsored ad appeared in the platform's regular newsfeed, leading users to a unique page on the NYT's website. It highlights the importance of birds in our environment and their vulnerability to climate change, which resonates with the shoe company's sustainability mission and name. This illustrates how native content can be relevant to your brand without necessarily being about it.
Why Use Native Content?
Thereâs some pretty strong science behind native content. Even the highest-performing mobile ads have a click-through rate of 1-5%. The unconscious part of your brain (95% of your brain is unconscious, actually) is responsible for decision-making. Native ads tap into your subconscious by blending in when your brain seeks relevant content through reading. Your mind will see something like a banner ad, but your focus will be engaged with a native ad embedded into an article.
This results in some pretty interesting and persuasive (IMO) reasons to use native content.
Increased Engagement
Consumers looked at native ads 2X more than editorial content and spent the same number of seconds viewing them. Because native content is designed to blend in with organic content, itâs often more engaging and effective than traditional banner ads or pop-ups. Readers are more likely to read and engage with an ad that is seamlessly integrated into the content they are already interested in.
Improved Perception
Native marketing content can also improve the way that consumers perceive your brand. Because these ads are designed to provide value to the reader, rather than just pushing a product or service, they can create a positive association with your brand in the mind of the consumer.
Better Targeting
25% more consumers looked at in-feed, native ad placements more than standard banners. Many native content platforms offer advanced targeting options, allowing businesses to reach specific audiences based on location, interests, and demographics. This can help ensure that your ad is being seen by the people who are most likely to be interested in your product or service.
Cost-Effective
While creating high-quality native marketing content can be time-consuming and expensive, the cost per click or impression is often lower than other types of advertising. This can make it a cost-effective option for businesses that are looking to reach a wide audience on a limited budget. And in this economy, we all need ways to save some coin!
Improved SEO
Native marketing content can also help improve your search engine rankings. By creating high-quality content that readers share and engage with, you can improve your visibility on search engines like Google.
Unblocked Ads
We love ad-blocking features, but as marketers, we also hate them. Native content is difficult for ad-blocking tools to detect and block. Traditional ads are often intrusive and irrelevant, whereas native content is more engaging and less likely to be perceived as annoying. In fact, 32% of respondents said they would share a native ad with friends or family, compared to only 19% for banner ads.
So what's the bottom line? If you're not using native content, you could be missing out on a valuable tactic to increase conversions. And lucky for you, Starling Social is here to help. Our team of social media gurus can create killer native content that blends seamlessly with organic content on any platform.
Trust us, we know how to make an impression. So why not let us help you take your brand to the next level with some native content? Get in touch with us today, and let's get to work!
How to Develop a Google Ads Strategy That Gets Results
Have you ever looked at a Google Ads campaign and immediately gotten the urge to slam your laptop shut? Youâre not alone!
Pay-per-click (PPC) advertising is among the most powerful types of online advertising, but understanding how to build a Google Ads strategy is key to getting the best results from your campaigns.
However, this is easier said than done. To create the most effective campaigns possible, youâll need to understand:
- How the Google Ads platform works
- What types of campaigns are available
- The various tools and strategies you can use to optimize your campaigns
- … and more!
In this blog post, weâll provide an overview of the Google Ads platform, discuss the different types of campaigns available, and provide tips and strategies for developing a successful Google Ads strategy.
What is Google Ads?
Google Ads (formerly known as Google AdWords) is an online advertising platform developed and managed by Google which allows businesses to create and manage pay-per-click (PPC) campaigns to reach their target customers.
These campaigns can serve a variety of purposes including promoting products and services, generating leads, and driving website traffic.
Types of Google Ads Campaigns
Google Ads allows businesses to create various types of PPC campaigns, each with its unique purpose and goals.
Letâs explore some of the most popular types of campaigns:
Search Campaigns
Search campaigns target users based on the keywords they type into Googleâs search engine. Ads are triggered when a userâs search query matches the keywords set in the campaign.
Best for: Search campaigns are best suited for businesses looking to attract new customers or generate leads.
Display Campaigns
Display campaigns use a variety of visual media, like images, video, and text, to promote products and services. Ads are triggered when a user visits a website or interacts with an app.
Best for: Display campaigns are best suited for businesses looking to increase brand awareness and reach a wider audience.
Video Campaigns
Video campaigns use video ads to promote products and services. Ads are triggered when a user watches a video or interacts with an app.
Best for: Video campaigns are best suited for businesses looking to engage with a large audience and increase brand awareness.
Shopping Campaigns
Shopping campaigns use product images and descriptions to promote products and services. Ads are triggered when a user visits a website or interacts with an app.
Best for: Shopping campaigns are best suited for businesses looking to increase sales and reach targeted customers.
App Campaigns
App campaigns (surprise, surprise) promote apps and mobile games. These ads are triggered when users interact with an app or visit a website.
Best for: Not surprisingly, app campaigns are best suited for businesses looking to increase app downloads and engagement.
Tips for Developing a Successful Google Ads Strategy
Now that you know some of the different types of campaigns that are available, letâs look at a few tips and insights for developing a successful Google Ads strategy:
Set Clear Goals
Before you start creating a Google Ads campaign, itâs important to set clear goals to make sure that your campaigns are focused and effective.
Your goals should be specific and measurable, like increasing website traffic or generating leads.
Choose the Right Campaign Type
Once youâve set your goals itâs time to choose the best campaign type to help you reach them.
For example, a search campaign is often the best option if your goal is to increase website traffic.
On the other hand, if your goal is to increase brand awareness, a display campaign might be more effective.
Create Relevant Ads
To maximize the effectiveness of your campaigns, itâs important to create ads that are relevant to your target audience.
Your ads should be optimized to target the right users, with the right message, at the right time. This can take some time to figure out, though!
Test Different Ad Variations
Itâs important to regularly test different ad variations to find out which ones are the most effective.
You can test different ad copy, images, and call-to-action phrases to see which ones are most successful and âswapâ them in to replace ads that are under-performing.
Monitor and Optimize Your Campaigns
Spoiler alert: you should never âset and forgetâ your ads!
Itâs important to monitor and optimize your campaigns on a regular basis to make sure that theyâre performing as expected. You should regularly check your campaigns to see whatâs working, and whatâs not, and adjust your campaigns accordingly.
Start Running Google Ads Today
By understanding the platform, setting clear goals, choosing the right campaign type, creating relevant ads, testing different ad variations, and regularly monitoring and optimizing your campaigns, you can create a Google Ads strategy that gets results.
If this feels like a little too much effort (we feel you), never fear! Weâve got a Google Ads expert with +20 years of experience running PPC campaigns ready to help — drop us a line and letâs chat.
17 of The Hottest Reels Trends Your Business Can Recreate
With the rise of short-form video content, Instagram Reels have quickly become a go-to platform for creators looking to share engaging and entertaining content with their followers. However, as with any social media platform, staying relevant and up-to-date with the latest trends is crucial to maintaining your audience's interest and expanding your reach.
Following Instagram Reels trends is a great way to achieve this. By staying on top of what's popular and in demand, your content will remain fresh and engaging to your followers. Not only does this help you stay relevant and connected to your audience, but it also increases your chances of going viral or gaining more followers, as users are more likely to engage with current trending content.
But there's more to following Reel trends than just staying current. Participating in trending Reels can also inspire creativity and help you develop new ideas for your own content. Itâs also an excellent way to connect with other creators and build a sense of community within the platform.
Letâs take a closer look at some of the most popular March Reel trends and discuss how you can leverage them to create successful content that resonates with your audience. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting with Instagram Reels, these trends will help you stay ahead of the curve and make the most of this dynamic platform. So let's dive in and explore the March Reel trends together!
Three Ways to Find Trending Reels
Scroll Your Reels Feed
As you spend time scrolling through Instagram Reels, it's easy to keep up with the latest trending sounds. Just keep an eye out for the small arrow in the bottom left corner of your Reels explore page.
Once you tap the sound, you'll find out where it originated, how many other Reels are using it, and which creators have already worked their magic with it.
If you're not feeling camera-ready just yet, no biggie. You can save that sound for later and come back to it when you're feeling inspired.
Get Inspired By TikTok
Instagram will hate that we are saying this, but trending TikToks tend to become trending Reels a few weeks later. And itâs much easier to find trending TikToks — you can literally just type in âtrending soundsâ in the search bar. But, remember to find the sound on Instagram before you post and donât upload it as an original sound.
Follow @Creators for Weekly Trending Reels
The @creators account is a goldmine of insider info and valuable resources for creators.
Pro tip: every Friday, the Instagram team themselves share the hottest Reels trends of the week. They also post tips and facts about the ever-changing algorithm. However, we find these are often geared towards creators and not businesses.
Trending Reels This Month
We know, coming up with Reel ideas and then executing those ideas can seem like a lot. But, you donât need to overcomplicate them. Weâve compiled 18 currently trending reels that you can quickly adapt for your business. Take a look!
Reels to Share Tips
These reels are short and easy to recreate with your own spin. We might even try some of these ourselves!
Reels for people who donât want to lip-sync
There are always a ton of trending sounds you can use with âb-rollâ, like footage from an event, production of your product, or even as simple as your feet on a walk!
Reels to Show Off Your Products
If you have a product-based business, there are endless Reels on Instagram you can recreate. These are as simple as holding your product in your hand, packing an order, and our favourite: telling your audience how your product/service can solve their problem.
Reels to Celebrate
Have you hit a milestone? Finished your work early for the week? Signed a new client? These Reels are quick to recreate and allow you to share your success with your audience. Try them!
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Amber | Content Strategist, Educator + Speaker (@a_creativeco)
Reels That Show What You Do
These Reels are the easiest ones to film, IMO. Simply prop your phone in a place that can record you while you work and record a time-lapse over trending audio. We also love the idea of sharing your favourite tools you use at work, an office reorganization, or a compilation of anything important to your business.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by annekabeee - habits | routines | self-growth (@annekabeee)
View this post on InstagramA post shared by MARIE | BUSINESS MENTOR FOR ONLINE COACHES (@marieewold)
Reels That Transition
Do you feel like getting fancy? These Reels are a step up from easy, but they are still doable and work for a diverse range of products and services.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Print Collective by Fiorella (@printcollectivebyfiorella)
Reels For Re-Introductions
Donât forget new followers may not know much about you. Try to re-introduce yourself at least quarterly. As you can see, there are several different ways to do it! Tag us if you give it a try — itâs a guaranteed like and comment from us ;)
There's no shortage of ways to make your brand stand out on social media when using Reels. So why not start experimenting with these trends today?
If youâre looking for help creating content for your social media platforms, drop us a line! We have over 22 years of experience publishing content online and would love to help.
Why Brands Shouldn't Delete Their Instagram Timeline History
- by Alyson Shane
Picture this: you just spent months working with a branding specialist to develop a shiny new brand identity.
Youâre excited about showcasing your new âlook and feelâ to the world, so you ask your marketing specialist about the best approach to re-introducing your brand to your Instagram audience. They reply:
âLetâs wipe your Instagram Timeline history and start from scratch.â
This might seem like a great idea — after all, the idea of a âclean slateâ to showcase your new brand sounds great, right?
Wrong. Deleting your Instagram Timeline content is one of the biggest mistakes you can make on the platform.
Today weâre going to dig into why deleting your Timeline content hurts your brand, the benefits of keeping your old content, and some strategies to introduce your new look and feel to your followers:
Why Your Instagram Timeline Matters
In the age of ephemeral content, it can be tempting to overlook your Instagram Timeline and the value it can add to your brand identity, but your IG Timeline acts like a visual resume for your brand.
When a new potential follower comes across your content, your Timeline (and the quality of the content there) will ultimately determine if they decide to follow you.
Your Timeline content also amplifies your brand on the platform and helps new followers find you without resorting to paid ads, making it an integral part of any Instagram strategy.
How Deleting Instagram Timeline Content Hurts Your Brand
The idea of a âclean slateâ sounds good, which is why a lot of marketers advocate for it, but people who do fundamentally donât understand how Instagramâs algorithm works or the benefit that your older content has for your performance on the platform, or for your audience.
Letâs dig into why deleting your Timeline content hurts your brand:
You Lose Your Historical ROI
On Instagram, your content and how it performs compounds over time, meaning that the more high-quality content you share that gets Likes, Comments, Shares, etc., the more Instagramâs algorithm views your content as âvaluableâ and amplifies newer posts you share.
So when you delete your Timeline history, youâre erasing all the work youâve done to increase your rankings with Instagramâs algorithm and reducing the reach your new posts will have on the platform.
(This is also why poorly-planned Instagram giveaways can kill your growth.)
It Can Damage Your Reputation
People increasingly use Instagram to get to know a companyâs brand and values. If a company deletes its entire timeline history, it can appear to be trying to hide something or be ashamed of its past.
This can lead to a loss of trust and credibility, which can be challenging to recover from.
It Can Confuse and Upset Your Followers
Instagramâs Timeline history serves as your brandâs story. If you delete it, it can be difficult for followers to understand the context of current posts since they have no reference point.
Deleting older content also means that anyone who re-shared a piece of your content can no longer access or reference it, which hurts their interactions with your brand.
Also, consider all those posts you shared that encouraged followers to âsave this post for laterâ — if they saved it and canât access it anymore, they may feel betrayed by you and stop following you or engaging with your new posts.
Itâs Harder to Build Relationships with New Followers
Deleting your Instagram timeline history can make building relationships with new followers even more difficult.
Like we said earlier: your Timeline acts as your company history and is how new followers can learn about your brand, what you do, and how youâve grown over time.
If this history is deleted, followers may not fully understand your brand, making it harder to build relationships and loyalty.
It Can Lead to a Loss of Visibility
Deleting your Instagram timeline history can lead to a serious loss of visibility. Instagramâs algorithm favours timely and relevant posts, so if you delete your timeline history, youâre essentially starting from scratch.
This can make it difficult to get your posts seen by your audience since the algorithm has to work harder to identify relevant posts.
You Lose Access to Historical Data
One of the biggest reasons to keep your old Instagram Timeline content is that you have analytical data you can look back on to measure and understand success.
By deleting your Timeline history, youâre literally erasing valuable data that can be used to inform future strategies and increase engagement with your new brand identity.
Benefits of Keeping Old Timeline Content
Now that weâve talked about the downside of wiping your Timeline content, letâs cover the benefits of keeping that historical content around:
Old Content Showcases Your Brandâs Evolution
One of the biggest benefits of keeping your Instagram timeline history is to show off your brandâs evolution over the years.
Keeping your Instagram timeline intact gives potential customers a visual timeline of your brandâs journey. This can help foster a sense of loyalty and trust since they can easily identify with your brandâs story and journey.
Old Content is Nostalgic
Another benefit of keeping your Instagram timeline history is that it can create a sense of nostalgia for your followers. By keeping your timeline history, you can remind customers of the moments that shaped your brand â from the day you launched to the day you released a new product or offer, and more.
This can help to create an emotional connection with your followers, as theyâre likely to remember these moments and feel a sense of nostalgia when they see them on your Timeline.
Old Content âHumanizesâ Your Brand
By keeping your timeline history, you can show customers how your brand has grown and changed over time.
You can also use it to share stories about the people behind your brand and the impacts theyâve had on its journey. This can help to create a deeper connection with your followers and make them feel more connected to your brand.
How to Introduce Your New Branding (Without Deleting Your Content)
Hereâs the tea, folks: your followers donât care about your rebrand as much as you do, so donât overthink or complicate this process!
When prepping to launch your rebrand, make sure you have the essentials lined up (introductory posts and Reels, new icons for your profile and Stories, etc.) and just roll it out.
If you want to get creative and create a visual âbreakâ between your old and new branding, we suggest lining up three posts to introduce the new look and feel with post captions digging into the new change.
Three posts work well because your Instagram Timeline is organized into rows of three posts, which creates a visual âline breakâ (for lack of a better term).
This way, you can keep all that valuable historical content while separating it from your shiny new branded content!
Conclusion: Never Delete Your Instagram Timeline Content
Brands should never delete their Instagram timeline history. Doing so results in a loss of long-tail ROI, damages their standing with the algorithm, and hurts their reputation with existing customers.
Keeping a timeline of posts and stories helps brands to create a larger impact, build relationships, and increase their reach.
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