How to Grow Your Instagram

Growing on Instagram isn’t just about getting more followers—it’s about creating an engaged community, building your brand, and making sure your content reaches the right people. Whether you’re a business owner, a content creator, or just someone who wants to improve their Instagram game, this guide will help you get there.

Why Instagram Growth Matters

Instagram is one of the biggest social media platforms, with billions of active users. That means there’s a huge opportunity to reach new audiences and build your brand—if you know how to do it right.

The key to growth isn’t just posting randomly and hoping for the best. It’s about understanding Instagram’s algorithm, using the right strategies, and consistently creating content that your audience loves. Let’s dive into the best ways to grow your Instagram.

How to Use Reels to Grow on Instagram

Reels are one of the best ways to reach new people on Instagram. The algorithm prioritises short, engaging videos, making them a must-use tool for growth.

Best Practises for Reels

Want your Reels to perform well? Here’s what you need to do:

• Focus on engagement. Avoid clickbait and create content that sparks genuine interactions.

• Upload high-quality videos. Higher resolution content keeps people watching longer.

• Use trending audio. Instagram ranks and distributes content based on trend popularity.

• Reply to comments. Engaging with your audience in the first 7 days boosts reach.

• Check your insights. See what’s working and adjust your content strategy accordingly.

The Ideal Length for Reels

For unconnected audiences, Instagram recommends Reels that are 90 seconds or less. The sweet spot? 30-90 seconds—long enough to provide value but short enough to keep attention.

How to Expand Your Reach on Instagram

Instagram’s algorithm recommends content based on engagement. The more people interact with your content (likes, shares, comments, saves), the more likely Instagram is to push it to a wider audience.

What Helps You Reach More People?

• Create engaging, relatable content. Humour, storytelling, and trending topics work well.

• Encourage conversations. Content that gets people talking boosts engagement.

• Hook viewers early. The first few seconds of your video should be attention-grabbing.

What Limits Your Reach?

Some mistakes can hurt your Instagram growth:

• Using watermarked content. Instagram deprioritises videos with third-party watermarks.

• Posting unoriginal content. Instagram wants original creators to get credit, so reposted content won’t perform as well.

• Making videos over 3 minutes. Reels longer than this won’t be recommended to new audiences.

How Instagram Recommends Content

Instagram’s algorithm works by showing content to people who are most likely to enjoy it. It prioritises:

• High engagement per viewer (likes, comments, shares, watch time).

• Audience-matching techniques (content similar to what users have engaged with before).

Different Instagram Features Have Different Ranking Systems

Each section of Instagram—Reels, Explore, and the Feed—has its own algorithm. Engagement within each section is what matters most.For example, if your content gets a lot of interaction on Reels, it’s more likely to be recommended in the Reels tab. Understanding these differences can help you tailor your content strategy.

How AI Can Help You Reach More People

Instagram is now introducing AI tools that allow creators to engage their audience automatically.

AI Features You Can Use:

• Creator AIs that answer common DMs and story replies for you.

• Custom AI chatbots based on your interests (e.g. fashion tips, daily affirmations).

• Auto-replies that respond to your audience in a natural, personalised way.

These tools can help you stay connected with your audience without spending hours replying to every message manually.

Content Guidelines for Maximum Instagram Growth

To grow your Instagram, it’s important to stay on top of content trends and best practices.

How to Detect & Amplify Trends

• Use trending hashtags that are relevant to your content.

• Follow viral audio trends to boost reach on Reels.

• Post consistently to stay in Instagram’s recommendation cycle.

How Hashtags Can Help

Hashtags help Instagram categorise your content and show it to the right people. Avoid spammy or irrelevant hashtags—stick to ones that actually match your content.

FAQs About Instagram Growth

How often should I post on Instagram?

Consistency matters more than frequency. Posting 3-5 times per week (including Reels, stories, and feed posts) is ideal for most accounts.

Why isn’t my Instagram growing?

You might be making some common mistakes, such as:

• Not engaging with your audience.

• Posting low-quality content.

• Ignoring Instagram’s recommended practices (e.g. avoiding watermarked videos).

Do hashtags still work on Instagram?

Yes! But only when they’re relevant to your content. Using random trending hashtags won’t help—Instagram prioritises engagement over hashtag use.

How long does it take to grow on Instagram?

It depends on your consistency and strategy. Some accounts grow quickly, while others take months. Focus on quality content and engagement for the best long-term results.

FAQs About Lume Collective

What is Lume Collective?

Lume Collective is a social media management and content creation business founded by Taylah Dann. We help brands and entrepreneurs build their online presence with expert-driven, trend-savvy content strategies.

What services does Lume Collective offer?

We offer:

• Social media management

• Content creation (photo, video, and graphics)

• Video and photo editing

• Web page and document editing

• Consumer research and analytics

How can Lume Collective help me grow on Instagram?

We create custom Instagram strategies tailored to your brand. Whether you need engaging Reels, a content plan, or audience analytics, we provide data-driven solutions that drive real results.

Where can I learn more about Lume Collective?

Visit our website Lume Collective or follow us on Instagram for tips and updates!

Final Thoughts

Instagram growth isn’t about luck—it’s about using the right strategies. By focusing on Reels, engagement, AI tools, and content best practices, you’ll be on your way to a stronger, more successful Instagram presence.

Need help with your Instagram strategy? Lume Collective is here to help. Get in touch and let’s grow your brand together!