Here's what you need to know...
Instagram has now reached 800 million users (and counting).
For many influencers and brands, Instagram is the most important social media platform.
Whether you’re looking to promote your YouTube channel or develop yourself as an “Instagram blogger” influencers won't be shunning the photo sharing app any time soon.
Here's what we predict you can expect to see from Instagram in 2018...
Sandwiching and Other Attempts at Beating the Algorithm
Some big name brands are utilizing this method in an attempt to outsmart the elusive Instagram algorithm.
For example, say you’re an influencer looking to increase the engagement of a particular post. You could try “sandwiching” this post on your Instagram in between two posts you know your followers will enjoy and interact with (like a contest-related post, giveaway, etc.)
Shopping on Instagram
If you have 10 000 followers or more on Instagram, you can now make use of Instagram’s Shop Now feature. It allows users to include links to their products or store pages, providing they have enough followers and are using an Instagram business account.
Get ready to start spending your dirhams with the help of Instagram, in 2018.
The Rise of Video and Instagram Live
If you’re an influencer, start getting comfortable in front of the camera.
Video features and Instagram Live won’t be going anywhere, anytime soon. The popularity of video content has only been increasing the past few years and it sure won’t be slowing down in 2018.
Instagram Stories = The Main Story
Instagram has been working hard to keep its stories feature interesting for its users, and distinct from its competitors.
While Snapchat had a less-than-stellar year, Instagram worked hard to improve their stories by adding in new features. Stories can now be saved and reposted as “Highlights” on a user’s profile. Instagrammers can also share live video on their stories. New stickers and fun features (like “Rewind” and “Superzoom”) were also rolled out this past year
More Crackdowns On Rule Breakers
This includes lowered engagement for those influencers who purchase followers, participate in comment pods or use third-party Instagram growth service to drive users to their account.
We expect in 2018 Instagram will keep playing hard ball with those influencers that are looking to cut corners when it comes to showcasing sponsored content and nabbing engagement.
Let us know your thoughts 2018's Instagram Trends in the comments below!