How to Use Instagram in the Financial Services Industry

Instagram was launched in 2010, and the growth of this new social networking site has been amazing. The platform went from 1 million users during the first two months on the market to over 800 million users by September 2017. According to Business of Apps, as a brand, Instagram is increasingly the most successful of all of the other major social platforms.

We know that Instagram is used by young people and adults alike, but how are businesses using it to successfully market themselves? Considering that the average user follows between 400-500 accounts and 95 million photos and videos are uploaded and shared daily, that is a lot of content for users to look through everyday.

An estimated 71% of US businesses use Instagram

We get this question a lot when helping advisors with their social media strategies – what about Instagram? Should I be on that platform as well? According to recent Sprout Social statistics, an estimated 71% of US businesses use Instagram. Additionally, small businesses currently make up the majority of Instagram advertisers and business profiles. When it comes to Instagram in the financial sector, it becomes a handy tool for firms to really show (not tell) how relatable they are and gives them much more flexibility in their storytelling.

We understand that adding yet another social media platform to the mix can be a headache but even more importantly – what’s the return on investment and how can the potential of it be maximized? Today we’re covering six tips on how you can best use Instagram for your financial planning firm.

1. SHOW, DON’T TELL

Images do a much better job of telling a story than just writing about it. Rather than saying your employees participated in a volunteer effort, you can show a picture of them doing this activity along with a small caption.

The below is an Instagram example from Twenty Over Ten client, Financial Strategies Group. Their employee is pictured dropping off supplies to Child and Family Charities. This is a fun and easy way to showcase the great things that their firm is doing as a way of giving back to the community.

instagram for financial planners

2. USE HASHTAGS THE RIGHT WAY

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Written by: Blair Kelly