Social media, closely following texting and phone calls, is the most popular form of communication in our era. Between Facebook, Twitter and other online pages, social media is prospering on a daily basis. Most use social networking to communicate and express themselves. Others use social networking to share every detail of their life. We all follow at least one person on Twitter who “tweets” numerous times a day about their emotions, school, family or friend drama, their wild night out or just a simple “good morning” shout out to their followers. Similarly, we all have a Facebook friend who makes numerous status’ a day to express their feelings, the person who mobile uploads an ample amount of pictures from their night before or has excessive “wall-to-wall” conversations with their best friend from home. We are aware of the unspoken “rules” of Facebook and Twitter, but do we know the “rules” of Instagram?
DO: Keep your profile on private.
Yes, we all want to have massive amounts of people follow us on Instagram. The more people that follow you, the more “likes” and comments you will get on your photos and the cooler, more popular you’ll look. Although it is nice to get a significant amount of likes, this is not a reason to keep your profile on public. Just like Facebook, is it smart to keep your Instagram profile on private so only you and your friends can see your photos. Do you really want strangers looking at your profile?
Don’t: Use an excessive amount of hash tags in your caption.
Yeah, we get it, your night out with your #bffs was #fun and you were wearing a #blackdress with #redheels. But seriously, who cares? We can see your outfit in the picture and if you weren’t having fun you probably would not have uploaded the photo. The less hash tags the better and the easier it is for followers to read you caption.
Do: Follow trendy themes like #ThrowbackThursday (TBT):
There’s nothing better than flashback pictures of you from the ‘90’s at Disney world. If you think the picture is cute, the chances are your followers will think so too. The cuter the throwback, the more “likes” your photo will get. Don’t be afraid to dig through family photo albums to find the best TBT.
Don’t: Spam your followers
The same way there’s always someone who tweets too much, there is always someone who “Instagrams” too much. Do not be that person. Even if it’s your birthday, this is not an excuse to Instagram ten pictures in the three minutes. Stick to your favorite one or two pictures- the rest can be uploaded to Facebook.
Do: Like photos of people you follow
Does your self esteem boost when other people like your photos? Do you feel super popular when the amount of “likes” on your picture hits double digits? Why not share the love to those you follow? Even if you see a remarkable picture uploaded by someone who isn’t your best friend, like it! The chances are you aren’t the only person who liked the picture that isn’t super friendly with them.
Don’t: Upload too many “selfies”.
Every one has those days where you feel extra pretty and want to show the world your beauty. Perhaps you just got your haircut or you’re wearing the cutest outfit. Sure, upload a selfie. Mirror selfies or classic IPhone selfies are acceptable but beware; do not do it too often. Selfie’s should be a rare occurrence, not part of your daily morning routine. Save selfie’s for special occasions or the days you’re feeling extra attractive.
Follow these simple rules and you’ll be likely to get more followers and have more “likes” on your photos. Share these rules with your friends to make sure they are not at risk for getting into unacceptable Instagram habits.