When you, as a brand talk on a social-media platform like Instagram, make sure that what you say resonates with your audience. The best content is often simple, fun, news-worthy and comes across as a word from one’s peers, rather than something imposing that a brand itself is talking about.

• Experience what your users do, by having a personal account.
• Be bold and share unique generic images that are share-worthy, as against being too sales-centric.
• Cultivate a distinct visual aura around your images, that go well with your brand.
  
• Make sure that your view of the world reflects in your images.
  

Here is an example of how Shwoodshop market their sunglasses with quite a literal view of the world!

With an overwhelming surge of images taking over social media platforms, your ability to be  novel is very essential to leave a mark. More so, while dealing with the sea of images on social media. Your photographs must tell your own story in a subtle way and yet be able to connect. While every image cannot make the mark, on the whole your images must break-free from clutter and be true to the brand-personality that you wish to build.

• Use image analytics and see what sort of images work the best.
• Acknowledge the contribution of your staff and showcase loyal patrons/contest winners.
• Share candid photographs/ videos of special brand moments.
  
• Give your followers a visual treat with a balance of business and fun images.
  

Beaucoup Bakery is well known for appreciating their staff with interesting images and triva

Make your instagram presence felt on other social media platforms and vice-versa. This will not only build a strong base of followers, but also multiply the likelihood of your images going viral. Also, this a great way to tell the world about your grand entry into the world of instagram and quickly enhances your exposure.

• Link instagram with platforms like Facebook and Twitter.
• Embed the videos on your blog.
• Make the most of apps that let you print images, find hashtags and keywords.
  

Almond Surfboards & Designs aptly used this breath-taking image to let users know more about their new website.

Make your content dynamic and always easy to share. Post questions and answer queries. Accept both positive and negative feedback with grace. Comment brand centric content on a personal level. It helps if you are fast and fair with your contests.

• Make contests true to daily life.
• Be reliable and consistent with your content.
• Engage with local instagram groups and meet up groups.
  
• Encourage users to hash tag your images.
  

The WhyILoveMyDad contest from NBC’s News hashtag collection set a benchmark in Instagram’s ability to engage and inspire followers.