Have you been distracted by a targeted ad on Instagram that just happened to know exactly what you were looking for? Suddenly, before you know it, you’re checking out and looking forward to that new washable rug or special white wine headed to your doorstep.

Selling on social media works. Instagram especially is a powerhouse and especially more important during this pandemic. Our store partners have shared how they have been able to adapt and grow during this time by shifting how they do business in-store to on Instagram. If you’re new to Instagram, we’ll walk you through 10 easy ways to grow your business on Instagram. But let’s start with the basics.

Why Instagram?

According to Instagram, 130 million users tap on shopping posts per month. 62% of users say they’ve become interested in a product or service after viewing it on Instagram Stories. Meanwhile 11% of users shop on Instagram and 1 in 10 use the platform to find, view and research products and services before making a purchase.

People are shopping on Instagram and now it’s easier than ever with shoppable posts. According to eMarketer in July 2019, by 2022 there will be approximately 135.2 million people using Instagram in North America every month. That’s a huge number of potential shoppers for your business.

Shoppable posts simplify the buying process on Instagram by allowing the shopper to click on the product you’ve tagged in a post. Then, the name of the product along with the price will pop up. If they click on the product popup, they’ll be taken directly to a product page where they can make the purchase. It’s convenient, easy, and very satisfying.

You can also add product tags to your Instagram stories so shoppers can see them in action and buy from there too.

Want to get started selling on Instagram?

We asked our store partners what works for them and here’s what they’ve shared:

• Be consistent with posts: Schedule regular posts so your followers get into the habit of checking your account for new products and updates. Bosting consistently at least once per day and posting in Instagram Stories will keep your audience engaged.

• Create behind-the-scenes posts: Leverage Instagram Stories to let your community see the process behind the closed doors, such as photoshoots, model calls, influencer meetings, and more.

• Show off your stock:: Include different products, brands, sizes, shapes, colors, materials, and price points. You can also create Instagram-only sales and deals that are exclusive to IG shopping.

• Create story highlights Even though the posts disappear in 24 hours, an Instagram story is the perfect place to bring awareness to your products.

• Perfect your photography: Think about what color combination or backdrop will make your product pop. Use customer and influencer photos where they’re promoting and featuring the product. Feature multiple products at a time with a flat lay.

• Share customer photos and videos: When customers tag your product in photos and videos, ask permission to share it on your account then share away.

• Create tutorials: Show your customers how to do certain things; like create a mask out of a silk Pucci scarf or get your over-the-knee boots to stay up.

• Encourage interaction: Whether that’s from a Q&A session on Instagram Live, responding to comments or posting an poll on your Instagram story, it’s good to interact with your customers.

• Test new features: Instagram just came out with a new feature called Reelz. Anytime Instagram launches a new feature, the Instagram algorithm places more weight on accounts these new features.

• Add a CTA in your bio. People who discover your Instagram will check out your bio. Add a simple CTA link to your bio and make it shoppable.

Ready to start selling on Instagram?

To see if you’re eligible to sell on Instagram, click here to learn more. Once you’re ready, let your customers know they can shop your products directly from Instagram. Share it in your emails, in-store, and of course on your own personal social media.

Have fun and stay tuned for Part II!

Looking for more tips on how to survive and thrive during the pandemic? Check out our blogs for the latest tips on how to navigate this time.

*LePrix is not affiliated with any brands in any manner. All items are LePrix Vetted and Approved: LePrix’s team of specialists inspect every item before it’s listed and sold on LePrix Wholesale.