Navigating Instagram’s latest features: tips for dentists
As always, Instagram is ever-changing and developing. However, it feels like there are so many more changes recently, right? So we thought why not summarise some of the most recent updates to ensure you’re maximising your social media marketing strategy.
→ Reposting public reels
Reels take time and effort and now you can score even greater reach. Instagram has launched a new feature that allows users to repost public reels to their feed. This means your practice now has exposure to a wider audience pool and it gives you more metrics to report on and grow.
We think this feature could be great for dental practices trying to reach that Gen Z audience, so make sure you’re adapting your reels with the mindset that they could be reshared.
→ Restricted access to live streams
You now need over 1,000 followers on Instagram to be able to host an Instagram Live Stream. Positive or negative? We see this as quite a disappointing update. Following the likes of TikTok, it can make it demotivating for creators and businesses who may be starting accounts from scratch. However, for those profiles that have already surpassed 1,000 followers, it does give a sense of exclusivity to who can run IG Live Streams and could help to build credibility and trust with your audience.
→ New carousel insights
Instagram is testing providing select accounts with new insights on carousels. This content format is continuously growing and helping the algorithms to push your content, so it’s vital that social media users know the success of these posts to adapt their strategy.
You will be able to see which slide in your carousel generated the overall post like which offers users a more granular performance report and helps advise your content strategy moving forward – you gain clarity on what style actually engages your audience. Instagram allows up to 20 frames per carousel, so it’s a great opportunity to test and learn.
→ New fonts & tools added to Edits
Instagram’s video editing app, Edits, has added some new fonts and tools for creators to use. You have greater insights on your reels such as net followers and new accounts reached, allowing you to pivot and adapt your strategy as and when needed.
There are a few new voice enhancement features that help reduce unwanted noise and the ability to make a featured voice standout more. And you can now directly post your edit from the Edits app to both Instagram and Facebook, saving a step for creators having to download and upload elsewhere. We’re not yet sold on Edits, but will continue testing as the app develops. Stay tuned!
→ Yes to ‘link in bio’
CEO of Instagram, Adam Mosseri, shares that adding ‘link in bio’ to your caption does not impact or harm your reach. This is great news! Instagram is notoriously difficult to push potential patients through the consumer journey due to being unable to add links directly to your captions, but adding ‘link in bio’ as a call-to-action can encourage the user to discover more about your practice and offering. When wanting to direct your audience to an external link… keep the link in bio’s coming!
Our main takeaway about Instagram’s latest updates
Social media platforms are changing at a rapid pace, so it’s important users keep their finger on the pulse and continue to adhere and adapt. The more you utilise a platform’s new features and trends, the greater chance you have of the algorithm pushing your content further. Main takeaway? Stay up to date, be aware of digital developments, and most importantly, have fun with your social media!
It’s a test and learn exercise. Not every post or idea will resonate with your audience, but how do you know unless you try?
As always, if you need help creating or supporting your social media goals, do get in touch and we’d be happy to help!
