Instagram’s September 2024 Updates: How They Can Boost Your Marketing Game
Sep 27, 2024Instagram has rolled out a bunch of exciting updates this September, and if you're looking to step up your marketing strategy, these features offer some game-changing possibilities. Let’s break down the new updates and how you can use each one to level up your Instagram marketing plan.
- **Teen Accounts: Keeping Gen Z Safe**
Instagram’s new Teen Accounts automatically enforce strict privacy and content settings for users under 16. While this update isn’t directly about marketing, it emphasises Instagram’s focus on creating a safer space for younger users. You can check out my BBC interview here to find out my thoughts.
**Marketing tip:**
If teens are part of your target audience, it’s essential to be aware of these new restrictions. Parents will feel more confident letting their teens engage with your brand, knowing their interactions are safeguarded. This is an excellent opportunity for businesses offering family-friendly products or services to tailor their messaging. For example, create content that speaks to both teens and their parents by highlighting safety, education, or wholesome entertainment.
- **Instagram Notes: Personal Connections Over Quick Thoughts**
Instagram's **Notes** feature allows users to leave short messages for their friends. You can now comment on shared content using this feature, making it easier to spark conversations with your followers.
**Marketing tip:**
Use Notes to add a personal touch to your interactions. If your followers are already engaging with your reels, leave them a quick note related to your latest content. For example, after posting a reel about a new product, you could leave a note like:
“Trying something new? Check out the reel and let me know what you think!”
This is an easy way to stay connected with your audience without requiring them to comment publicly, making the engagement feel more intimate and personal.
- **Updated Metrics: It’s All About Views and Sends**
Instagram has made a huge shift in metrics—now it's all about **Views** across all formats, and **Sends per Reach** is becoming a vital stat. “Likes” may be dropping, but people are forwarding posts like never before.
**Marketing tip:**
This is the perfect moment to create **shareable content**. Think about what kind of posts your audience would want to send to their friends—maybe it's an inspirational quote, a hilarious meme, or a jaw-dropping product reveal. By focusing on shareable value, you’re not only getting more eyes on your posts but also signaling to Instagram’s algorithm that your content is worth spreading.
- **Carousel Expansion: 20 Frames for Better Storytelling**
With carousels now allowing up to 20 frames, brands can pack in even more content per post. This opens up opportunities for **deeper storytelling** and visual engagement.
**Marketing tip:**
Maximize the potential of a carousel by walking your audience through a step-by-step process or product showcase. For example, if you’re launching a new product, dedicate each frame to a different aspect—features, benefits, use cases, customer reviews, and a final call to action. More frames mean more chances to captivate and convert!
- **Comments on Stories: Public Interaction is Back**
You can now publicly comment on Instagram Stories, giving users a whole new way to engage with your short-form content.
**Marketing tip:**
This adds a fresh layer to community engagement. If you post a story about a new offer or behind-the-scenes content, encourage your followers to **leave comments**—whether it’s a question, feedback, or just something fun. Since these comments are public (but still limited to followers you follow back), it can create a sense of community and conversation right there in the Stories feed.
- **Pin Chats to the Top of Your Inbox: Stay Organized**
For businesses that deal with a flood of DMs, you can now pin your most important chats to the top of your inbox. This is a great tool for keeping track of conversations with loyal customers or important partners.
**Marketing tip:**
Pin chats with your **most engaged customers** or frequent buyers. Keeping these convos handy means you can quickly respond to feedback, provide updates, or even give them exclusive early access to new offers. You’ll stay organized and ensure your best customers feel valued.
- **AI Stickers for Stories and DMs: Creativity Unleashed**
Instagram is introducing **AI stickers**, allowing users to generate custom stickers to use in Stories and DMs. This feature gives you creative freedom to stand out from the crowd.
**Marketing tip:**
Use AI stickers to create **branded or fun stickers** related to your niche. For example, if you run a fitness brand, you could create a set of motivational stickers to drop into your workout videos. Or, if you have a seasonal product launch, use AI-generated holiday-themed stickers to add a playful twist.
- **Location Tags in Notes: Share Your Spot**
Instagram is testing location tags in Notes, which means you can now share your whereabouts more easily with your followers.
**Marketing tip:**
If your business is location-based (like a café or retail store), this feature could be a fun way to remind your local audience to stop by. For example, drop a Note with your location and a teaser like,
“We’ve got something brewing at [Your Store]! Come by for a surprise!”
These new features are all about deeper engagement and more creative ways to share your brand’s story. Whether you’re a seasoned Instagram pro or just getting started, there’s plenty to play with here. Use these tips to experiment with the latest updates and find what works best for your audience!
