Instagram is a great branding and marketing opportunity for small businesses. However, growing a large and engaged following can take a while. These Instagram hacks for businesses will help you build your Instagram profile and engage your followers more effectively. Whether you want to gain traction fast or simply want more consistency, this guide breaks down small business Instagram tricks and hacks you can start using today.
- Instagram combines photo, video and live features that encourage discovery, and reward creativity and consistency, making it a top platform for visual storytelling and ideal for brand visibility.
- A mix of different Instagram content styles, such as reels, memes and Stories, helps boost your visibility and connects with different audiences.
- Instagram hacks include hashtag strategies, smart scheduling, profile optimization, consistent branding and strong call to actions, turning users into followers and followers into loyal customers.
- AI tools can support small businesses on Instagram by improving content creation, writing captions and tracking performance.
Content creation hacks
1. Create eye-catching content that your audience will love
Make your account stand out from the crowd with eye-catching content. Focus on Instagram’s built-in tools, like using trending audio in Reels, or find engaging ways to make long-form content more digestible, like turning FAQs into Stories.
To expand your reach, try the Instagram Reel hack of remixing top-performing posts into short videos using trending audio.
Instagram content creation
Find Instagram success by analyzing top-performing posts, understanding your target audience’s preferences, experimenting with formats and doubling down on what drives the most shares and engagement. Research accounts with similar audiences and see what kind of content is working for them, then create similar content. AI content tools like Canva’s Magic Writexan help you brainstorm post ideas, draft captions or turn blogs into visual Reels or Stories, saving you time while keeping your content on-brand.
Research social media content ideas to help plan engaging visuals and copy for your Instagram.
Pubity, a British social media publisher that began as a meme page in 2014, now has over 40 million Instagram followers thanks to its fast turnaround and highly shareable content formats: memes, short videos and news snippets. Its Instagram strategy highlights the importance of consistency, relevance and audience insights in driving viral-level engagement.
Algorithm hacks
Understanding Instagram’s algorithm, using AI-assisted planning and posting consistently, is the trick to getting noticed in 2025.
2. Understand the Instagram algorithm
The Instagram algorithm is designed to prioritise content that keeps users engaged and on the app for longer. It looks at how quickly users interact with posts, how long they spend watching videos and how often they share or save content. That means content that sparks conversation, uses engaging visuals and encourages interaction is more likely to be pushed to new users.
Captions, alt text and even your DMs can now influence reach, as Instagram AI analyzes language to deliver more relevant content to users. AI tools like Predis.ai or Lately can help you optimize your post timing, identify top-performing content themes and generate captions that align with algorithm trends and your brand voice.
3. Boost your content’s visibility
Hashtags were once the main way to discover content on Instagram, but now the algorithm leans more on machine learning to serve content in Explore, Reels and Feeds. Try Instagram growth hacks like remixing top-performing Reels, using CTA stickers in Stories and a consistent brand aesthetic across formats.
Use data from Meta Business Suite or Buffer to understand when your audience is most active and post then.
Engage with comments, encourage saves and shares, and experiment with content types to show value to the algorithm. AI content scheduling tools like Later and Hootsuite allow you to A/B test post formats and timings to continuously refine your visibility strategy.
Source: Instagram engagement hacks via Instagram
Hacks to gain Instagram followers
4. Attract competitors’ followers
For Instagram growth, you need to get the attention of your competitors’ followers. Because these users are already interested in similar content, the strategy of stealing followers is highly targeted. To get the most out of your efforts, employ a Like + Comment + Follow strategy. Instead of just following users or liking posts, you would follow a user, like one of their pictures and then leave a comment.
Instagram posting hacks
5. Post consistently
An easy Instagram posting hack to grow your business’ following is to post consistently. But rather than the old rule of two to three times a day, according to recent Hootsuite data, businesses across industries are now averaging about 9.3 Instagram posts per week, including Reels, carousel posts and Stories.
Dash Social analyzed over 1.2 million Instagram feed posts from 3,000 brands and found that those posting just 2-3 times per week achieved higher engagement rates than those who posted more or less frequently.
Aim for 2-3 feed posts per week plus daily Stories, and schedule consistently using tools like Buffer or Later to make sure your content is seen and clicked.
Instagram posting hacks
Instagram posting hacks that help you stay visible include batching your content or posting during peak engagement times. AI-powered tools like Lately can analyse your past posts to suggest optimal posting frequency, content formats and caption styles based on what’s worked best for you before.
6. Automate and schedule your posts
As a small business owner, you likely don’t have the time to manage your Instagram account on a daily basis. Post scheduling is essential to growing your Instagram and freeing your time to focus on other aspects of your business. Scheduling platforms such as Hootsuite and Schedugram make it easy to schedule your posts well in advance, ensuring you consistently have fresh content to share. If you have a business account, you can schedule posts on Instagram directly.
Pair scheduling platforms with AI tools like ChatGPT, Jasper or Copy.ai to generate engaging captions, brainstorm post ideas or rewrite product descriptions in your brand voice to save you hours weekly.
Instagram engagement hacks
7. Engage with your followers
Ask engaging questions in captions or use polls in Stories to encourage interaction. Replying to comments quickly or resharing user-generated content can also help connect meaningfully with followers. AI tools like ChatGPT or Jasper can help write conversation-starting captions, create reply templates and brainstorm engagement-focused Story ideas in seconds, perfect for busy business owners.
Source: Instagram growth hacks via Instagram
8. Automate engagement
Most large Instagram accounts use software to handle their likes, follows and comments. Services such as Kicksta and Archie will engage with other Instagram accounts based on the parameters you set. These tools are very powerful for growing small business’ Instagram followers quickly. To automate engagement, tools like ManyChat help guide users through DMs or Story replies. Pair this with AI writing tools like Copy.ai to personalize your welcome messages or create FAQ-based responses using your brand voice.
However, it’s important to make sure you stay compliant with Instagram’s terms and not engage with too many users too quickly, which can get your account marked as spam. Instagram’s algorithm can detect non-human behaviour and penalize accounts, so use these tools with caution.
You might prefer to focus on smart growth strategies like these insights from real marketing experts.
9. Use strong calls to action
Nearly all Instagram content you post should have a strong call to action (CTA). CTAs increase engagement by encouraging sharing or commenting, getting more eyeballs on your posts. Often, getting users to do what you want them to via Instagram is as simple as asking them to do it. Popular calls to action on Instagram for small businesses include asking followers to “double tap” if they like a post or to “tag a friend” in the comments. You can also direct followers to sign up for your email list or purchase your product.
10. Run contests to market your business
Contests are an excellent way to increase engagement on Instagram and can result in thousands of new followers. Types of contests you can run on Instagram include photo contests, where users share themed images using a branded hashtag, follow or comment-to-win giveaways or Story-based quizzes with a prize for correct answers.
Pair giveaways with timely promotions and cross-post them on other channels like Facebook. Find out more about cross-channel marketing in our Instagram vs Facebook marketing guide.
Regardless of the type of contest you decide to run, the entry should be any combination of liking a post, following you and tagging a friend (or another action that will expand your reach and increase engagement).
Source: Instagram giveaway hack via Instagram
11. Work with influencers
Today, successful Instagram growth hinges on well-aligned influencer collaborations that feel authentic to audiences. Instead of a one-off mention through paid shout-outs, small businesses should look for micro or nano-influencers (under 100K followers) whose followers match your target market. These creators often have higher engagement rates and are more affordable than big-name influencers.
Tools like Upfluence, Aspire or even Instagram’s built-in Creator Marketplace can help you find and vet collaborators based on niche, engagement and audience demographics.
Best practices for working with influencers include:
- Offering influencers creative freedom so their posts feel authentic
- Clearly disclosing paid partnerships (as per FTC and platform guidelines)
- Measuring success with trackable discount codes, affiliate links or UTM-tagged URLs
- Long-term partnerships over one-off posts
Profile optimization hacks
12. Write an attention-grabbing bio
Your Instagram bio is one of the first things people see when they find your page, so make it clear, concise and purposeful. Use keywords that clearly describe what you offer and add a strong call to action. AI tools like Copy.ai or ChatGPT help generate clear, engaging bios that match your tone and target audience.
Make your link-in-bio work harder using tools like Linktree, Beacons or Later’s Linkin.bio where you can add multiple links to various pages and content.
13. Design highlight covers and Story categories
Stories only last 24 hours, so adding them to Highlights helps extend the life of your content, and gives profile visitors a quick overview of your brand. Organize them by topic like Reviews, FAQs or Behind the Scenes and design covers that match your brand palette and style. Use Canva’s AI-powered Magic Design tool to auto-generate Story highlight covers, then customize them to match your brand.
Source: Instagram hacks via Instagram
Business and marketing hacks
Check out our social media marketing guide to learn how to build a connected, cross-channel marketing strategy that drives real business results.
14. Use Instagram business account features
Switching to a business account unlocks valuable features like analytics, scheduling, branded content tools and ad options. You can use Instagram Insights to track what content performs best and refine your strategy over time. AI-powered dashboards like Sprout Social and Vista Social can also help you visualise data trends and automate your performance reporting.
15. Build an effective Instagram Shop
Instagram Shop allows users to browse and buy directly from your profile. Tag products in posts and Stories, and use product-focused Reels to showcase your items in action. Make sure your shop is well-organised and updated regularly. Consider using AI tools like Adobe Express or Pebblely to create high-quality product mockups and lifestyle visuals.
16. Turn engagement into sales
Make it easy for your followers to take action by using CTAs like “Tap to shop,” “DM to order,” or “Link in bio.” Highlight customer reviews, unboxings or testimonials in your Stories and Highlights to build trust and show new followers what they can expect from your products.
17. Run targeted Instagram ads
Instagram ads let you target audiences based on their interests, behaviours and location. Test different ad formats like carousel, Stories or Reels and retarget users who’ve already engaged with your content. AI-based ad tools like AdCreative.ai or Pencil use your performance data to generate high-converting ad creatives and test variations quickly.
Source: Instagram marketing hacks for small businesses via Instagram
Privacy and security hacks
18. Make your account more secure
Instagram privacy hacks include two-factor authentication, controlling who tags you and filtering comments. To protect your account from hacks and manage your privacy settings, regularly update your password, review your app permissions and enable login alerts. You should also restrict message requests, hide your activity status and monitor any suspicious login attempts from unknown devices.
AI-powered security tools like Google’s Password Manager or apps like Jumbo can help you manage your digital privacy and alert you to any compromised credentials or risky settings.
For even more ideas, check out these social media tips and social media hacks for small businesses.
Is Instagram still relevant in 2025?
Instagram is still a major platform for visual storytelling and e-commerce. With over 2 billion monthly active users, it ranks among the top social platforms globally, outperforming TikTok, which has approximately 1.58 billion users. While TikTok leads in short-form video consumption, reaching users for an average of 58 minutes per day, Instagram closely follows at 52 minutes per day through its Reels and Stories formats.
Instagram also dominates in product discovery and customer engagement, with 61% of users turning to the app to research their next purchase, making it one of the most influential channels for small business and e-commerce. What’s more, 67% of 18 to 24-year-olds use Instagram to discover local businesses, compared to 62% on TikTok, highlighting its importance for brands targeting younger audiences.
Instagram’s algorithm now emphasises relationship-building content and direct interactions, which can enable SMBs to convert followers into loyal customers (benefits that newer platforms don’t yet match).
Using AI tools to grow your Instagram
Small business owners can now use AI tools to save time and boost their Instagram growth. Tools like Canva’s Magic Write, ChatGPT and Lately.ai can help write captions and bios, and repurpose long-form content into Reels or carousels. Instagram itself is rolling out built-in AI features to suggest hashtags, improve targeting and streamline ads.
Instagram growth hacks FAQs
What are Instagram hacks to grow my account?
Focus on visual consistency, post at optimal times, use interactive stickers in Stories and collaborate with accounts. Make the most of Instagram’s built-in insights for business accounts to see which content performs best. This will help you understand your audience and their behaviour, and tailor your content and posting schedule to their preferences.
Should I use other social media platforms?
Absolutely. Cross-promotion on TikTok, Facebook and Pinterest can increase your reach and build stronger brand recognition. It also means you don’t have to create fresh content for every channel.
How can I keep my content fresh?
Stay up to date with current trends and seasonal themes. It’s important to be timely, as jumping on social media trends too late could damage your brand’s reputation. Find out more about how to use memes in marketing in our guide.
How does Instagram fit into my wider marketing strategy?
Instagram is a powerful channel for visual storytelling, product promotion and community building, but it works best when part of a broader marketing plan. Brands can improve results by connecting Instagram content to email campaigns, website promotions, print materials and other social platforms like Facebook or TikTok.
