Since purchasing Instagram for $700 million, Facebook continues its trek to add new features to its abundant repertoire of social media fun and functionality. Its newest product, Instagram Direct, is no exception. The new direct messaging social media management tool allows you to send photos and videos directly to 15 of your followers per message and measure real time customer engagement and satisfaction. Your business is now able to reach your fan base directly through a photo and/or video post; that’s awesome! To get you started with this new social media management feature, here are a few tips and ideas from companies already using it.
Are you ready for Instagram Direct?
1. Contest
The Gap posted a photo and stated that the first 15 commenters would be eligible for a photo contest. These submissions were sent directly to the Gap inbox and the winner received a tablet case made of denim. Thanks to direct messaging, people felt more comfortable submitting a picture and the Gap could easily manage the social media response.
2. Say Thank You
It’s been easy in the past to simply post a general thank you across social media platforms. Now, with Instagram Direct, you can target your Instagram followers (this is a different audience then Twitter or Google+) with a fun photo or video post. Hyatt Hotels sent around this photo wishing their followers happy holidays.
3. Feedback
Want to try out a new logo? What about a slogan or brand interface? Posting a photo or video of a new look for your brand and messaging your followers is a great way to let them know that their opinion matters.
4. Text-Only Messages
You might not have a photo or video post prepared yet, but simply sending a direct text to your followers gets their attention. Use this feature to send a quick shout out message to your fans.
5. Evergreen Content
Unlike SnapChat, your photo or video post won’t disappear into thin air. That means you have solid content that you can use in other places.
Instagram Direct is just starting out, but don’t be afraid to dive in and try it. Let us know what you think about it in the comments below!
Photo Credit: beta75.se
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