8 actionable Instagram optimization tips for musicians

Instagram is a powerful social media platform for musicians. You can share your music, connect with fans and artists alike, and interact with other people. For these reasons, you have to make sure you get the most out of the platform. In this article, we'll go through useful tips on how to set up so that you can grow an audience on Instagram!

1. Turn your account into a Business Profile

The next step is to turn your account from a personal one into a business profile. If you don't know how, this video will show you exactly how to do it:

https://help.instagram.com/502981923235522

Once you're done, you'll get new features that help brands promote themselves and connect with fans. For example:

• Access to analytics about the people interacting with your content. It is mandatory to understand which posts resonate with them and optimize them. This data is helpful when deciding what kind of content should be prioritized, and what content needs improvement before posting again.
• You'll also be able to create ads that will help promote your music on people's timelines. Not everyone want to wait for organic growth. If that's your case, Instagram Ads are the way to go, given your brand is strong enough. As an added bonus, business accounts come with an option to add a contact button at the top of their profile page.

2. Optimize your Instagram username

The first thing you'll want to do is optimize your username. The easiest way to do this is by choosing a name that's easy to remember, easy to spell, and easy for other people to search for.

If you're thinking about changing your username, consider these aspects before doing so:

• Is it memorable?
• Is it unique?
• Is it relevant?

If not, then it's time for a change! Is your username already taken ? Try appending something relevant, like JIL. JIL is an electronic soul band from New York. Being from New York is part of their brand, so they added .nyc to their username : http://instagram.com/jil.nyc. There are many options for your username. You only have to find what fits your brand.

3. Use your portrait as your profile picture

Your profile picture is one of the first things people will see when they visit your Instagram page. It's essential that you choose an image that reflects who you are and where you're at in your music career. You want a clear image of yourself that conveys the kind of artist you are. Are your a performer ? A song writer ? A producer? Have a look at the last show or recording session that had an impact on you. Use those photos as inspiration for a strong profile picture.

Make sure it's high quality! If possible, upload a professional headshot rather than some poor-quality photo. If you don't have a professional photo for whatever reason, go ahead and post one anyway. Don't forget to use a clean and uncluttered background so your face is visible. Use natural light if shooting with your smartphone.

Oscar Anton releases music from a different country every month. It makes sense for him to picture himself with a disposable camera, with a street in the background and a very summer-like filter. Why ? Because this is the kind of image your can expect from someone travelling. This is part of his brand, and it works.

4. Optimize your bio

Use a clear and concise bio. Your Instagram bio is valuable real estate. You can use up to 150 characters in it, but it's best to keep your description short, sweet, and informative.

Make sure you're using emojis ! Emojis are an excellent way for musicians to add personality to their bio — but only if they're used right. For example, you can use them at the start of each line break. With too many emojis sitting in one line, they won't be as effective at conveying information.

After reading your bio, you'll want people to take action. To allow this, don't forget to include a call-to-action in the very last line of text. This will help convert visitors into followers or fans. For example, if you have a new song or EP available, then it might be wise to include a link to where they can listen to it!

The best way to do this is to use a smartlink tool. It is like a small website where you can add a bunch of links and other useful feature. You can try our very own smartlink made for musicians like you. Sounds interesting ? Try it for free

5. Get familiar with Instagram Insights

Know your audience

Getting familiar with Insights is a great way to get a big picture of your account performance. You'll be able to see who your audience is, what they like and what they don't like. You'll also have the ability to understand when their are most active. It makes it easier to post when your fans are online.

Optimize your next posts

You can even see which of your posts have performed better, track how much engagement you got over time. You should base your new posts on what has worked in the past.

6. Set up your Instagram Highlights

Highlights are a great way to help people learn more about you, your band and your music. You can create highlights that highlight the most popular posts on your account. This will give people an easy way to see what they've missed if they don't follow you yet.

You can also create highlights that feature content from a specific location or period of time, like a tour or festival performance. This can be helpful for fans who may have missed out on seeing you perform live but would like to catch up before the next show!

Take Eugénie for example : she uses her higlights to promote her latest releases. In these highlights, you'll find promotional content, behind the scenes and other authentic types of content. New visitors will be able to catch with her latest music, in an engaging and meaningful way !

7. Grow an audience outside Instagram

The Internet isn't all about Instagram. You may already be active in other places such as other social media platforms, forums or groups.

• Use your website to link back to your Instagram account. People visiting your website will see that you have an active presence on the platform and will be more likely to follow you there.
• Promote your Instagram account on other social media channels. Share highlights of your most recent posts on Facebook and Twitter, as well as in promotional emails and newsletters.
• Send out email newsletters with links back to new posts or highlights from previous ones that have been popular with fans.

8. Instagram is a powerful tool for musicians – make use of it!

It's time for musicians to recognize the number of benefits that come with Instagram. The more popular your music is, the better chance you have to impress both your existing fan base and others out there who have yet to hear it. And by setting up an optimized Instagram page, new music lovers can come across your work in a matter of seconds. Make sure your presence online is helping to spread the word about your songs—not holding them back.