“Connection! It’s the name of the social media game!”

CONNECTION! It's the name of the social media game. While it's tempting to click away mindlessly on platform after platform, as business owners we should be striving to connect to the people around us on these amazing platforms we've been given. Never before have we had such an open ability to connect with ideal clients in our markets and around the world the way we can today. But how do we connect on Instagram? Here are 5 creative ways to connect with your audience (or potential audience) on this powerful platform.

1. GO DOWN THE HASHTAG RABBIT HOLE!

Sure, you're using hashtags... but are you FOLLOWING them and CLICKING on them? Spend some time clicking on hashtags related to your industry or service and COMMENTING on posts that are also using those hashtags! Find a new interesting hashtag? Click on that one too! Go down the hashtag rabbit hole and connect with others along the way!

2. DON'T BE AN INSTAGRAM STORIES CREEPER!

We know you're watching... I mean, literally. People can SEE who has watched their Instagram Stories! So why not connect in comments? Respond to the Instagram Stories you are following! Encourage others, sympathize, be a good human! This is an amazing way to connect... and stop being a lurker.

3. FIND COMMON INTERESTS

You're trying to reach your ideal client on Instagram right? Make them into happy users of your product or service? Then go where they are! If you ideal client is interested in COFFEE, hang out on coffee related Instagram accounts and connect (AKA COMMENT) with the people there!

4. CONNECT BASED ON LOCATION

Have you always wanted to work in Paris? Perhaps there's a gorgeous wedding venue you're dying to photograph. An amazing restaurant? Find location tags related to places you'd like connect to and engage with posts tagged at those locations! Chat on related topics... don't pitch your products or services. You are there to CONNECT!

5. ENCOURAGEMENT IS THE NAME OF THE GAME!

How often are you OFFENDED by a compliment? Do you easily forget encouraging words? I didn't think so... so pay it forward! See something beautiful on Instagram? TELL THEM! Feeling inspired by someone's work? TELL THEM! Love someone's killer jacket or amazing shoes? TELL THEM! The surest way to make a lasting connection is through AUTHENTIC and kind communication.