[one_half padding=”0 15px 0 0″]I’m sitting at 21.7K followers on Instagram right now (3:29pm EST on November 27th). By the time this post goes live on Saturday, I’m almost positive I’ll be at 21.9K. I’ve gained a steady 100-150+ followers every day for the last 3 weeks even though I barely get 1K likes a photo. I can’t lie not hitting that 1K mark really get’s under my skin sometimes, but it’s just the nature of the beast that is Instagram. I remember when I first got my first 1K likes on a photo. Despite the fact that I’d been on Instagram since May 11, 2012 (my first photo was of a Filet-o-Fish Sandwich at JFK — I was on my way to Barcelona Spain to celebrate my 28th Birthday), I didn’t get my first 1K likes until 2017. After that it became easier and right when I was hitting it on a regular basis the algorithm changed. What a huge blow to my ego. So I changed gears and started making outfit videos realizing Instagram was pushing those to the tops of timelines. My best video got 20K views in 24 hours.[/one_half][one_half_last padding=”0 0 0 15px”]Speaking of which, videos on Instagram are on the way out. People just don’t have the patience for anything longer that 6 seconds, especially when they can just hop over to Instastories. People tell me all the time that I should have more followers. Maybe that’s true but I’m happy with the followers I have. I think the people who follow me do so because they actually like me and are invested in what I have to say. They find value in what I have to offer and they are engaged. Instagram can be brutal and of you let it, it can consume your life. I just checked and I spend an average of 4 hours on Instagram a day, which is WILD. As much as I dislike depending on this app it’s what brings in the majority of my income. Here’s how I made Instagram work for me. Read on for everything you need to know about Instagram and how I made 3K in 1 week on the biggest app in the world.[/one_half_last]
Likes Matter but Engagement Matter More
A like takes as little as a second. Did that person even read your caption? Did that person bother to leave a comment? Did they click on a link in your profile to go to your blog or website? My goal is to get people off Instagram and onto my blog (which I 100% own). Brands are looking more at engagement now. It’s nice to have a lot of likes and a lot of followers but if you aren’t influencing them to do anything other than like your photo, can you really call yourself an influencer? Me thinks not. Gone are the days when one can buy followers and likes and engagement. Instagram has started to crack down on accounts with fake followers and engagement. Make sure you have something you own because you don’t own anything on the gram’.
Instagram is a Business and like most Businesses the Goal is to Make Money
Instagram is getting hip to all this blogger shit and they don’t like it. They want you to pay them to promote your posts so more people see it. The same goes for the businesses that have Instagram accounts. They don’t want those businesses paying an influencer to post a photo and tag them, they want that business to pay them to promote the posts they have on their accounts. Why do you think liketoknow.it promptly got shut down at the height of their money making? Liketoknow.it is an app that when someone used to like your photo, they’d get an email of what you were wearing and links to buy. Many Influencers used this to make money posting photos on Instagram until the feature got shut down by Instagram. LiketoKnow.it is still in business but you can’t monetize a photo the way you used to. By the way, you can still get details to what I’m wearing on Instagram here. Instagram no doubt realized the money making potential and wanted parts. Instagram is moving away from Influencers and refocusing on everyday people living unfiltered real moments. I’ve actually decreased the number of hashtags I used especially some frequently used by bloggers just in case.
Your Posts are Sampled so Make them Engaging and Make Sure to Engage
A lot of people don’t know that when you first publish a post, it’s only shown to a small sample of your followers. The way that sample followers react to your post determines whether your other followers will see it. I don’t have the heart to tell anyone to turn on post notifications for me. That’s just not my style. The key is to get the most engagement early on and that means likes, comments, shares (which you can now monitor) and saves. After posting a photo I usually stay on Instagram for at least 30 minutes, responding to comments and liking replies. If someone took the time to comment, I always try and comment back. I think that’s the issue with engagement with people with huge followings. They hardly ever respond. Boo. Connecting is key.
My Predictions for Instagram
Instastories are going to take over. People feel more connected watching stories than looking at a photo and reading a caption. It’s also quicker and Lord knows peoples attention spans are hella short these days. Brands are now asking for Instastories Collaborations because of the easy access to a Swipe Up Link directly to their website. I’d say in the next few months, Influencers will be charging significantly more money for Instastories than for Instagram Photo Posts. Hell, waaaay more people watch my stories than they like my photos on Instagram. I think that’s true for everyone! Of course Instagram knows this and will try and cut back on the population of users with access to the Swipe Up Feature (cause really they want you to stay on the app as long as possible, not leave). I think the number of followers required to get the Swipe Up Feature will increase to keep the market less saturated. I’d say in a year or so it will probably be 30K- 50K follower requirement to get the Swipe Up Feature. Hopefully those who already have it will be grandfathered in because that’s how I make my money!
This is actual footage of me finding $7 in my Croc Fanny Pack! I don’t care if I’m a millionaire one day, I will never not be happy when finding forgotten moneys!
Photography by Rose Lazard || Editing by Monroe Steele
Orange Cardigan SOLD OUT get similar Here | Leopard Skirt get more affordable versions Here, Here and Here | Jil Sander Boots via Sample Sale | & Other Stories Croc Fanny Pack
GET THE LOOK
How I make Money from Instagram and What’s Working For Me
I continue to grow, even though I’m not getting 1K likes on a regular because I stay active. I post at least 2 times a day and I’ve mastered the art of getting people off my profile and onto my blog. 70% of my website traffic comes from Instagram. Mostly from people clicking the link in my bio or swiping up on an Instastory to my Blog. Blogs are dying, especially blogs that only focus on fashion. I look at myself first and foremost as blogger or a writer before an influencer or content creator. I made 3K from Instagram in 5 Days by including swipe up links to my favorite products, Black Friday/Cyber Monday Sales recommendations as well as directly my Pitch Templates. I use affiliate links and earned a commission off of those sales. I also did a 1 brand collaboration for an Instagram Post and a few of Instastories.
I am really grateful to have readers who know I’m not just trying to sell them things. I only post stuff I actually use and like and oftentimes buy with my own money. I’m happy that I can make a living off of doing something I love, but that comes second to me writing and being able to live out my dreams and passion. I get so many questions about Instagram and Instastories:
What apps I’m using to create my videos and my Instastories
Where I find the music I use for videos
How I create my New Post Notifications on Instastories
How to size photos to fit on Instagram and size videos for Instastories
Tips on how to increase engagement and grow your following organically
How to Make Money Using Instagram
I created the Instastories Pro ebook with 10 of my Favorite Apps for Instagram along with Instructions and tips to monetize and grow your Instagram organically. I really think we all should have the opportunity to take advantage of Instagram, while we still can. For this weekend only, The Instastories Pro eBook is 50% Off or $19.99 with Code: INSTA50. The sale will end promptly on Dec 3rd. I advise you to cop yours quickly so you’re armed with the tools to secure the bag via Instagram in 2019.
xx
Monroe
Wow I had no idea about LIKEtoKNOW.it I was accepted in the program but was too lazy to start using it. And as someone with less than 2k on insta and a fashion blog your prediction that you’ll need 30k to get swipe up and that fashion blogs are dying is terrifying to me esp as I’ve been desperately wanting 10k just for the swipe up. I’m not sure I would say blogs are dying cause there are millions of people who are starting them and bloggers are making a lot of money selling courses to people who want to be bloggers so i might disagree with that, but thanks for the insightful article!
Author
As someone who has been blogging for 10 years..Yes the art of the blog is dying. More people are just skipping blogs all together and sticking only to Instagram. The market for Blogs is so saturated. People hardly even read anymore. LOL. So yes we can agree to disagree. Thank you so much for reading and good luck!
Monroe
Monroe,
This article was VERY interesting. Your predictions regarding Instastories being taken away is sad! 🙁 I LOVE Instastories…especially for my favorites like yourself!
Andy
aka @andysunflower
Author
Hi Andy,
I think you misread. I actually said Instastories will take over and become bigger than just the Instagram feed. I predicted it will become harder for people to get the swipe up feature on Instastories. I don’t think Instatories is going anywhere.
x
Monroe
I applaud everyone who does this as a job! I enjoy getting inspiration from social media but the inter workings of how people make money at it does not appeal to me. Keep following your passion! I enjoy your style and content. And thanks for sharing with those trying to follow this path!
Author
Haha, I do as well. It’s pretty intense and I’ve only been at it a month. Thank you so much for reading and taking the time to comment.
x
Monroe
Totally agree with where things are headed on IG. While I think it’s sad that blogs aren’t as popular as before, as I new blogger I still put so much more into my blog since I own it. And you never know if/when IG will end up going the way of Myspace. It could happen! Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
Xx, Kelsey
http://www.kelseyybarnes.com
Author
Hi Kelsey,
EXACTLY! Instagram could do anything and where would all your content be? I think smart people still realize the importance of having something you own or a space like a blog that is your own. Thank you so much for reading and commenting.
xx
Monroe
Wow Monroe thanks for schooling me early this morning. Such great information you have just provided. I am not on IG nor do I have a blog, but I would like to create one soon. I have always only visited your blog, but once in a while I do check out your iG account. I love your blog and each time I visit you inspire me to start my own. I just don’t know what I’m waiting on. Thank you again for your amazing tips. Xo
Author
Haha, Thank you Nenette. Yeah for someone who’s not on IG its a lot of information LOL. But definitely worth knowing if you want to start you own blog. You definitely should do it!
x
Monroe
I really appreciate your engagement on IG, kinda feels like we’re friends. I also agree with your predictions for IG and in my experience IG stories is better because the user doesn’t have to scroll through content to get your pics. Plus scrolling hurts your fingers after a while, lol.
Author
Thank you Marina. Thats exactly what the app was made for, to connect people, not just be seen. Thank you so much for tuning in. I appreciate it. And yes…all that scrolling can take a toll on your thumbs LOL.
xx
Monroe
Hello there, what an insightful information! I only liked and commented on ur photo on IG a few days ago. Since then I have been seeing u on my timeline and here we are. Having read it post, I will have to look into starting my own blog incase things falls apart with Instagram. I would very much like you to teach me how to grow my Instagram account and make money from doing so. Also, help me learn how Instagram works…? Are you able to do that? I will forever appreciate it…. Warm Regards.
Author
Hi Jacqueline,
Thank you for reading. Unfortunately I can’t help you with learning how instagram works. It just takes practice. If you’re looking to make it a regular habit I’d suggest purchasing my Instastories Pro Ebook. It also comes with tips on how to use instagram.
Best,
Monroe
Thanks for such great, useful tips! I’m going to start putting some of these into play right now. It feels like blogs are dying to me too. However, I still feel like its a great marketing tool and a way to connect with those who still like to read. Or who want to even more about you and/or your company. Awesome post.
https://www.bluelabelsboutique.com
https://www.fashionnotfear.com
Author
Thank you for reading Kristie, ‘m glad some of these tips could help you out. Yes, Im definitely going to keep my blog even though the trend is that people are moving away from them. Its good to have your own space.
xx
Monroe
Your predictions are pretty spot on. I’m not a big influencer/blogger at all, but as with any great thing that comes, so does it’s rise, peak, level and decline. Then on to the next thing. That’s why even if blogs aren’t as popular, I still try my best to maintain my content on MY space. You ALREADY know that I admire you for you just being you, but the fact that you study, research and work hard to actually create not only authentic and interesting content, but you also write very well. It has always made me appreciate you as not just a creator but someone of substance. My forever fav ❤️
Author
Yes indeed. I will never give up my Blog. Who knows what will happen with Instagram! Thank you so much for all your support. I really appreciate you.
x
Monroe
I know that I am kind of late but this information is very useful. I never even knew that liketoknow.it existed until now and I totally agree with you on what Instagram is doing with their platform. I just started a blog a few months back and I use Instagram to kind of market. I don’t really like using other platforms but it seems like it is mandatory to do so if I want to build a following. Instagram is clearly making some changes that are effecting the company in what could result in positive or negative outcomes but we really don’t know at this point which direction it’s going to go. I do want to say congratulations on your 3k. It is really inspiring to someone doing what they love to do and being able to do it full-time. That just so happens to be one of my goals in life and I want to personally thank you for inspiring me.
Author
No Worries love, thank you so much for reading. Blogs are so fun and a great way to get your creativity out. I’m glad I was able to pass on some information. Stay tuned I’m actually in the process of writing a blogger manual too.
x
Monroe
WOW! I think this article is what you’d call “cornerstone content”. People (like me) will be coming back to this post since everyone is desperate for more information on how to master Instagram, the blog and finally make some money with it! I have the feeling my content gets better and better and my followers aren’t growing at all.. Thanks for the insights, all the tips and your prediction for the future.
lots of love, Miri
http://www.meetmiri.com
Author
Hi Miri,
Thanks so much for checking it out! It’s all a balancing act but enough trial and error and you’ll find the formula that works for you.
xx
Monroe
bookmarked!!, I love your blog!
This was really helpful, and makes me think hard about how to get started. I’m still a little nervous about trying to get my involved and focused on growing my following, but it’s people like you that help me get back on track. I love your fashion style, and how unique and unpressed you are to be just like everyone else. It’s refreshing and gives me hope for the future.
Author
Thank you so much Jasmine! I appreciate you.
x
Monroe
Wow I had no idea about LIKEtoKNOW.it I was accepted in the program but was too lazy to start using it. And as someone with less than 2k on insta and a fashion blog your prediction that you’ll need 30k to get swipe up and that fashion blogs are dying is terrifying to me esp as I’ve been desperately wanting 10k just for the swipe up. I’m not sure I would say blogs are dying cause there are millions of people who are starting them and bloggers are making a lot of money selling courses to people who want to be bloggers so i might disagree with that, but thanks for the insightful article!
I am happy that I found you. Your predicaments are so true instastories is taking over. I love that you took the time to create this detailed overview of information. Thank you. New to your blog and I love it.
Author
Thanks so much! I’m happy you found it helpful.
xx
Monroe
Hi Monroe,
I’m happy I came across your blog! As a public relations student i’m constantly hearing about what it’s like to work with influencers and get your business across on social media platforms such as Instagram. It’s enlightening to hear your take on the future of Instagram from a user experience perspective. I agree that Instastories are now far more engaging than posts, especially with the new Instagram algorithms. I’ve also seen LikeToKnowIt EVERYWHERE, but never knew what actually occurred with it behind the scenes. Thanks for the informational post, will definitely be following along with your content!
Author
Hi Tara,
Thank you so much for reading! It’s definitely a lot behind the scenes and glad this post could shed some light.
x
Monroe