Instagram Tips – What NOT to do on Instagram

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Introducing to you, the ultimate list of what NOT to do on Instagram!

We’ve heard all the Instagram complaints, we know you’re trying the hashtags and posting great photos… But do you know what NOT to do on Instagram?!

Here’s a list of things that could be hurting your Instagram engagement…

Make sure if you want to start boosting your engagement on Instagram, head over here to see our top tips for boosting Instagram engagement!

There are so many Instagram tricks and tips out there it is so easy to spiral into an Instagram research-fest. Instagram has been our jam over the last few years in the online world. Andrew and I both love photography so much. So of course we love a platform to share content via imagery!

We have successfully grown our following on Instagram to 37K+ (awesome) followers! And we have seen the good, the bad and the annoying Instagram etiquette.

So are you excited to build up your Instagram following and create an epic Insta-tribe! We shared last week how to boost your engagement, check that out here!

Stick with us to learn Instagram Etiquette on what NOT to do!

What NOT to do on Instagram tip #1:

Tagging random, irrelevant people in your photos

This is a number one complaint we hear from the Instagram community. Tagging people is a yes, but only when it is relevant.

So say you post a photo on a hike in Costa Rica; tag the CR tourism board, tag that national park if they have a page, tag the hiking gear company that you used, tag any clothing brands that you loved during your hike, tag people that do shout-outs for nature shots.

Do not tag your favorite travel blogger, irrelevant brands, or new people that have followed you.

This does nothing to boost your engagement, and quite honestly it annoys people when they get tagged in random photos. Want them to check out your page? Send them a DM and say that you thought they would love your content!

What NOT to do on Instagram tip #2:

Using just any hashtag

Hashtags rock! They are essentially used like a search engine. But they do require a little research and a little trial and error.

Don’t just throw together any hashtags and expect AMAZING response. You have to look for a combo of big hashtags with smaller hashtags and find your sweet spot.

Big hashtag example: #travelblog (broad)
Smaller hashtag example: #passionpassport (more narrowed down)

Don’t even know where to begin?! Check out our top hashtags for travelers here!

What NOT to do on Instagram tip #3:

Being non-responsive

You know what social media is used for? Being SOCIAL.

Meaning when someone comments, notice it and respond! People notice that and like following you when you engage.  Don’t ignore comments and messages because that takes up time. It takes less than a minute to give a response and will leave you with more loyal followers.

What NOT to do on Instagram tip #4:

Using an automated DM with a company tag at the end

We love all things automation! Automated DM’s can work. They are great for engagement if they are used in the right way. The goal of an automated DM is to reach out to your followers in a more intimate way. So when the end of a direct message has a company tag on it, it automatically takes that intimacy away.

There are plenty of programs you can use for DM’s that will not include the tag at the end. We love automation, it saves so much time in the back end of our businesses. But they have to be personal and you have to set aside time to interact with the responses.

What NOT to do on Instagram tip #5: 

Spammy bios!

Your Instagram bio is your first impression. This is the first thing that someone sees when they head to your profile. It should have your core message and niche all bundled up into one small paragraph. So do not ever lose your core message, or your authenticity for a shoutout or promotion you are working with.

We see so many fabulous brands spam their bio with promotions and you totally lose sight of who they are as a brand. There is a better way to do shoutouts and promotions, using your bio’s message is not the way.

There you have it!

5 Not-to-do’s on Instagram if you want to build an engaged following, and especially if you want to use it as a business tool!

Tell us in the comments… What is your number one not to do on Instagram?

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