How to Grow on Instagram in 2024

Algorithms change, but there are foundational principles that will continue to ensure you grow your Instagram followers and boost engagement.

If you actively market your business on social media, then, of course, it makes sense to stay informed about any changes to the algorithms by which the platforms you use operate (and the sun seems to rise and set). But in addition to what becomes more or less popular with any given update, there are several principles that content creators should always apply because they are the fundamental drivers of audience growth and engagement.

This week on Stay Paid, we talk to Haley Ingram, founder of Coffee & Contracts—a content and coaching platform for real estate agents. She shares some of the most important aspects of using Instagram in 2024 and beyond to grow an audience and boost engagement. (They’re the same strategies she’s used to amass 61K followers.) Below are just three of those tactics. You’ll hear the complete details when you listen to the episode.

1. Know your ideal client and create content that addresses their specific needs.

Too often, creators produce content that reflects their own point of view rather than their prospect’s perspective. More than trying to put yourself in their shoes, you should strive to answer the questions that your audience wants answers to. To attract these preferred followers, Haley stresses the importance of providing clear titles and value and offers a great example of how users seek out content relevant to them.

2. Post content that reveals the story behind the story.

When you own a business, its operation becomes a part of your personal story. Sharing behind-the-scenes content allows followers to know, like, and trust you, not just as the owner but as a real person they can relate to. But, as Haley explains by way of her own strategy, you must always be sure to add value your audience will appreciate to your story.

3. Be consistent and authentic.

There was a time when the aesthetic look of a social media post was its more important characteristic. But today, consistency and authenticity hold more prominent roles. Haley promotes maintaining a steady look, tone, style, and “vibe” with your posts. And she encourages creators to not let their egos get in the way of their creativity. Stay focused on the people you are serving and meeting their needs, and let go of what your high school friends, family members, or others might think. It’s the opinions of your audience that ultimately matter to the success of your business.

There is more to be discovered when you listen to Haley’s interview, including which goals are best  met when deciding among Instagram Reels, Stories, and Carousels, whether still pictures are making a comeback, and how she strategically uses ChatGPT to help develop her content. (Listen to find out a clever use of this technology that relies on prompts we’re going to try ourselves.)

We hope you enjoy this episode and act on the advice Luke offers at the end. We’d also appreciate it if you took a moment to leave us a 5-star review and comment on Apple Podcasts. (We read them on air!) Thanks for listening!

Connect | Resources

• Instagram: @coffeecontracts
• Website: coffeecontracts.com Use promo code “Stay Paid” for $15 off
• FREE e-book: How to Win at Instagram

You can get more free resources, including additional e-books, printables, and lead magnets to attract new leads, by visiting our Resource Library.

Are you interested in working with Luke and Josh to improve your marketing, get more referrals, enjoy more repeat business, and begin living the life of freedom you deserve? CLICK HERE and get a special offer just for Stay Paid listeners!