6 Specific Actions You Can Take to Engage and Grow Followers on Instagram

Instagram has become a powerhouse for artists and creative independent businesses to showcase their work, build their brand, and engage with potential customers. If you're an artist or creative solopreneur, it’s not enough to simply post your work and hope for followers to come to you. Growing your Instagram following takes strategy, consistency, and engagement. Here are six specific actions you can take to grow and engage your Instagram audience effectively:

1. Optimize Your Bio for Impact

Your bio is the first thing visitors see when they land on your profile, so make sure it’s optimized for conversions.

• Action Step: Write a short, clear bio that explains what you do, who you serve, and the type of content you post. Include a strong call-to-action (CTA) like “Shop my prints” or “Join my newsletter.”

• Add a Link: Use tools like Linktree or Later’s Linkin.bio to include multiple links in your bio (e.g., shop page, latest blog post, art prints).

• Choose a Consistent Profile Picture: Use a professional headshot or logo that’s easy to recognize.

2. Create Engaging Reels That Highlight Your Process

Instagram Reels are one of the best ways to get discovered by new followers due to the platform’s algorithm favoring short-form video content.

• Action Step: Show behind-the-scenes clips of your creative process, whether it’s painting a canvas, designing jewelry, or sketching. Keep your Reels under 30 seconds to grab attention.

• Engage Viewers: Add captions that tell your story or explain the process. Use trending music to increase your Reel’s visibility. For example, show “Day in the Life of an Artist” or “How I Create Custom Art for Clients.”

• Post Consistently: Aim for at least 1-2 Reels per week. You can batch-record content to stay on top of your posting schedule.

3. Use Hashtags Strategically

Hashtags help you reach a broader audience by making your content discoverable to users searching for specific topics.

• Action Step: Use a mix of broad and niche hashtags related to your work. You can include up to 30 hashtags per post, but aim for 10-15 that are highly relevant.

• Specific Hashtags for Artists: Use a combination like #ArtistOnInstagram, #SupportSmallBusiness, #ArtForSale, #Illustration, or #HandmadeJewelry. Research what hashtags your audience follows.

• Test and Adjust: Experiment with different hashtags to see which ones bring the most engagement, then optimize over time.

4. Post User-Generated Content (UGC) and Customer Testimonials

Social proof helps build trust and encourages new followers to engage with your brand.

• Action Step: Encourage customers to post pictures of themselves using or wearing your products and tag your account. Repost this user-generated content to your Stories or feed.

• Highlight Testimonials: If a customer leaves a glowing review, share it in your Story with a CTA, like “Swipe up to shop.”

• Create a Branded Hashtag: Make a hashtag specific to your brand or business (e.g., #ArtByYourName). Ask your followers to use this when sharing photos of your work to help create a community around your brand.

5. Host Instagram Live Sessions or Q&As

Instagram Live allows you to connect with your audience in real-time and gives them a chance to interact with you directly.

• Action Step: Host weekly or bi-weekly Instagram Lives where you showcase your art, answer questions, or provide a tutorial. For example, if you’re a painter, you could show how you prep your canvas or explain color mixing techniques.

• Invite Collaborators: Go live with another artist or creative entrepreneur to cross-promote each other’s audiences.

• Save and Repurpose Content: After your Live ends, save it to IGTV or your feed for future viewers to access.

6. Engage With Your Audience

Engagement is key to growing your following and building a loyal community. Don’t just post and disappear—take time to interact with your followers.

• Action Step: Respond to comments and messages promptly. This shows that you value your audience and appreciate their support.

• Like and Comment on Other Accounts: Spend 10-15 minutes daily engaging with similar accounts, potential customers, or artists in your niche. Leave thoughtful comments on their posts to build genuine connections.

• Use Polls and Questions in Stories: Ask for your followers' opinions on your work, such as “Which design should I print next?” or “What colors should I use for my next piece?” This invites participation and makes them feel involved in your creative process.

Bonus Tip: Collaborate with Influencers or Feature Accounts

Teaming up with influencers or getting featured on art-specific Instagram accounts can help you tap into new audiences.

• Action Step: Research art influencers or feature accounts that align with your niche. Reach out with a proposal to collaborate, whether it’s a giveaway, joint Instagram Live, or feature post.

• Follow Up: If they agree, make sure the collaboration aligns with your brand values and target audience to maximize engagement and follower growth.

My Final Thoughts:

Consistency and community building are essential for growing your Instagram following as an artist or creative business owner. By optimizing your profile, posting valuable content, and actively engaging with your audience, you’ll be well on your way to increasing your followers and turning them into loyal customers.

Need help with your Instagram strategy? VYA Service offers customized social media management to help artists and creatives grow their online presence. Contact me- Heather- at VYAservice.com to ask questions and/or get started!