Social Media may seem scary and impossible to use, with constant updates and confusing changes. However, it is a great opportunity to engage with current clients, and get your treatments in front of new ones. If you are already using platforms such as instagram, and not getting anywhere, you may need to consider the content ratio of your salon instagram posts.
Instagram Algorithm
To understand why post sizing is important, it is first necessary to understand what an algorithm is. Put simply, the Instagram algorithm is a set of rules that ranks content across the platform. It analyses everything you post, and decides how to distribute your content. When your posts work with the algorithm rules, your content will be put in front of users that are most interested in what you have to offer. One of the best ways to ensure your reach is not limited is to post the correct sized content. Check out @skinbase_facial on Instagram to see examples of good practise.
Content Ratio
As instagram is a multimedia site, with accounts each able to communicate through stories, posts and reels, it is important to understand how the recommended sizing of each content type differs. As you move forward with your social media marketing, ensure you are following these new content ratio suggestions. Let’s take a look.
Instagram Posts
Instagram posts that are at a 4:5 ratio are now favoured by the algorithm. Therefore, if you are still using the 1:1 squares that Instagram originated with, you might be affecting your own reach. The slightly longer ratio offers greater impact when showing up on your followers feed, allowing for increased engagement. It is important to note that the posts will still appear square on the grid, so it is a good idea to put the most important information in the centre.
Instagram Stories
Instagram stories are a great way to check in with your followers on a day to day basis. Encourage engagement by asking questions, and easily tell clients any important business announcements you have. As stories are shown on the full screen once clicked on, all stories should be produced at a 9:16 ratio. Try to avoid placing important information at the very top of the screen, where it can become obscured by your username. Uploading square or horizontal content to your story will affect reach, as the algorithm will know the content is not a suitable ratio.
Instagram Reels
Instagram reels are a great method of connecting with new users on instagram who are potential clients. Reels show up in everyones feed, regardless of following. Reels content is immersive and engaging, and as with stories, should be produced at a full screen, 9:16 ratio. If you can, avoid uploading landscape videos or square videos with borders, as the algorithm will decrease the reach of your reels, and minimise your opportunity to find potential clients. Reels are a fabulous way to grow your account – so use them wisely!
Instagram Content
Find out how colour can affect your social media marketing in our blog: The Impact of Colour
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