Stop using Instagram like it’s 2019 (and how to use Instagram in 2023)

Instagram has changed so much since it came out in 2010. No longer the photo-sharing app, it’s a staple to nurturing your customers and building a community.

Things changed for the app during the pandemic when we were thrust onto social media for social interaction to connect with brands who suddenly needed to be more online. Then TikTok became less about dancing and more about thought leadership and authenticity. 

With competition from TikTok, Instagram stepped it up by adding features like Reels and Threads and changing what you can see based on what you’re interacting with (a.k .a, the algorithm).

quick reference list of the areas on Instagram and how to use them:

Home Feed: 

Instagram has changed so much since it came out in 2010. No longer the photo-sharing app, it’s a staple to nurturing your customers and building a community.

Things changed for the app during the pandemic when we were thrust onto social media for social interaction to connect with brands who suddenly needed to be more online. Then TikTok became less about dancing and more about thought leadership and authenticity. 

With competition from TikTok, Instagram stepped it up by adding features like Reels and Threads and changing what you can see based on what you’re interacting with (a.k .a, the algorithm).

Story Feed:

The Story feed on Instagram is your gateway to engaging with your followers and sharing captivating content. It’s where you can view the Stories of your followers and those you follow, creating a direct interaction channel. The content you post here should be both behind-the-scenes and newsworthy, as it has a fleeting lifespan of just 24 hours. Use this feature to pull back the curtain on your brand, offering a sneak peek into your daily operations, exclusive announcements, or timely updates. This temporary content encourages real-time engagement and keeps your audience eager to tune in and stay connected.

Reels Feed: 

The feed can be found by clicking the Reels icon at the bottom of the app. Instagram Reels isn’t just about sharing entertaining videos; it’s your gateway to exploring new horizons and expanding your reach. With Reels, you can captivate fresh eyes, elevate your brand’s awareness, and invite a unique community of followers to join your journey. 

However, once your Reels are showcased to your dedicated followers in their feeds, the real adventure begins when the Instagram Reels Algorithm takes over. This algorithm opens up two critical avenues for users to discover Reels from new creators.  

The bottom line: reels feed is a place to post if you want to grow your following.

The content showcased here is often mainly shown to new users, meaning your call-to-action should reflect not selling but following for more or an engaging question.

Profile Feed

The Profile Feed is the centralized hub for all your content, easily accessible by clicking on your profile image. In the past, meticulous attention was devoted to crafting our clients’ Instagram content, emphasizing maintaining a consistent branded or aesthetic appearance. However, the landscape has evolved, and while we continue to infuse your content with brand identity, less stress is placed on avoiding consecutive graphics or photos. Why? Well, because the assumption that everyone visits your profile to explore your content and follow your account is changing. Instagram has introduced a convenient follow button right next to our username in Reels, simplifying the process for users to connect with your content without necessarily delving into your profile. It’s estimated that merely 1% of your users will venture into your profile section, underlining the evolving dynamics of user engagement on the platform.

Explore Feed

Much like TikTok’s For You Page (FYP), Instagram’s Explore Feed is a personalized gateway to a diverse array of public content, including captivating photos, engaging videos, entertaining Reels, and captivating Stories. It operates on a unique principle: there isn’t a single, universal Explore page for all users. Instead, the Instagram algorithm meticulously curates a distinct Explore page tailored explicitly to users’ preferences and interactions. If you frequently admire adorable photos of French Bulldogs like me, your Explore feed will soon be teeming with charming content featuring these delightful pups. It’s a testament to Instagram’s commitment to delivering a truly customized experience, ensuring that your scrolling journey is brimming with content that resonates with your interests and passions.

Wondering what to do next? Stay tuned for next week’s post!