Instagram Tutorial
Website designed and ready to launch….Check. Post a few blog posts so the website isn’t lonely….double check. The next step is to start getting the word out that this little gold nugget exists! As I mentioned in my first blog post in this series, I would focus my efforts on creating and using Instagram. I’m starting from a blank canvas and wanted to take this opportunity to share with you how I set up my account. I’m not going to lie, I was a bit mesmerized by the prospect of a clean slate coupled with a paralyzing fear of what would grab my audience's attention. What better way to set up an Instagram account than to do it together! I will walk you through step-by-step on how I set up my page. Plus, provide you with content ideas that may be helpful for your business. Now, let's begin:
Step 1: Create an Instagram username
When choosing your Instagram name, if you find that the name you picked is unavailable, don’t lose heart. Try adding “the”, or “a” or adding a period between each word.
Step 2: Start adding more information in your “Edit Profile” section
Add a picture of yourself or your logo.
Step 3: Add your name so people can discover your account by using your name
Step 4: Add links to your website, YouTube channel, TikTok, affiliate links, etc.
Step 5: Select a category that best describes what your page is about. By choosing blogger I am letting my audience know that I create content that can be viewed on my website.
Step 6: Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. I would suggest adding one sentence about who you are or what your business is about. Then add a fun fact that catches your audience attention. Then add where you’re based out of or if you’re a brick and mortar, your store location. Have fun and be creative in this section!
Whew, great start! Now it’s time to add your posts. A good rule of thumb is to add nine posts when you start your Instagram page. When someone lands on your page it is best to have all nine grids filled, that way your account will look active to your audience and it’ll entice them to follow you.
Step 7: Post your content
Here is an example of my nine post filling up my grid. Remember, it doesn’t have to be perfect, you just need to start!
Pro-tip: Don’t forget to use hashtags in your post. This will allow your content pieces to be searchable.
Congrats, you set up your Instagram account! Now you can continue to connect with your audience and share content that they can’t get enough of.
If you are struggling with ideas on what to make your first 9 posts on, here are some ideas:
Bakery content ideas:
Introduce yourself & how you got started baking
A photo of your favorite item you make and explaining why you love it
Behind the scenes of making the baked goods
A photo of an order you’re filling
Your favorite baking tool
A photo with your collection of bakery items you sell
A photo of your bakery case
If you have a team, showcase them
A photo of your favorite coffee or tea drink that helps fuel your day
Bonus: Behind the scenes fulfilling orders
Are you setting up your Instagram account and searching for content ideas? Comment below, I would love to brainstorm with you.
