Instagram Updates and Predictions: November 2024

Instagram is always evolving, and November brought some exciting updates that could significantly impact how small businesses use the platform. Plus, there are some juicy predictions for what might be just around the corner. Let’s dive in and explore these updates, with actionable tips for you to boost your Instagram strategy.

Story Highlights Are Moving

Story Highlights are getting a makeover! Starting November 19th, Highlights will move to your profile grid and also get their own dedicated tab, like Reels. This new placement promises increased visibility for Highlights, encouraging creators to curate their stories strategically.

Marketing Tip:

Revamp your Highlights to showcase your best offers, testimonials, or behind-the-scenes content. Treat this space like a mini portfolio—potential customers might see your Highlights before they scroll your feed. Add branded cover images to make them visually appealing and ensure they align with your brand story.

Reset Your Instagram Recommendations

Instagram is introducing a "recommendations reset" feature, allowing users to clear their algorithmically suggested content and start fresh. This feature will roll out globally soon and is designed to offer a more tailored experience.

Marketing Tip:

Encourage your audience to reset their recommendations and interact with your content to keep your business at the top of their feed. Create engaging posts or Reels to remind them why they followed you in the first place, and consider running a poll or contest to drive interaction.

Remove Deactivated Accounts from Followers

Say goodbye to inactive followers with Instagram’s new "Deactivated Accounts" category. This feature lets you easily remove spam accounts, keeping your follower list clean and engaged

Marketing Tip:

Periodically clean up your followers to improve your engagement rate. A smaller, more engaged audience is far more valuable than a large, inactive one. Use this opportunity to analyse your active audience and tailor your content to their preferences.

No More Following Hashtags

Instagram has removed the option to follow hashtags, marking a shift in how content discovery works. Hashtags are still important for categorising content, but their role in discovery is diminishing.

Marketing Tip:

Focus on creating content that encourages engagement rather than relying on hashtags alone. Experiment with Reels, carousel posts, and Stories that resonate with your audience’s interests. Also, consider boosting key posts with ads to ensure visibility.

Clickable Links in Reels (For Meta-Verified Users)

Meta-verified users at higher subscription tiers can now add clickable links in Reels. While this feature has a hefty price tag, it opens new possibilities for driving traffic from video content.

Marketing Tip:

If Meta Verified is in your budget, use clickable links strategically to drive traffic to your website, product pages, or event sign-ups. For everyone else, a strong call-to-action in your Reels captions can guide followers to your bio link.

Enhanced DM Filtering for Creators

Instagram has upgraded DM management tools, introducing advanced filters to help creators handle messages more effectively. Features include account-based filtering, spam detection, and streamlined DM requests.

Marketing Tip:

Use these tools to prioritise messages from potential customers and collaborators. Create a system for responding quickly to inquiries, as DMs are becoming a key channel for customer interaction.

Predictions to Watch For

1. New Year Text Font: A fresh Stories font might make its debut, perfect for adding seasonal flair.
2. Post Insights Shortcut: Checking post performance could soon be as simple as a long-press on your profile grid.

Marketing Tip:

Stay ahead of the game by experimenting with these features as soon as they roll out. Use the New Year font for timely holiday promotions and keep a close eye on insights to refine your content strategy in real time.

Final Thoughts

Instagram’s updates this month underscore a shift toward prioritising quality engagement over quantity. Whether it’s through curating Highlights, improving DM responsiveness, or embracing new tools, there’s plenty of opportunity to elevate your strategy.

Which update are you most excited about?  And if you’re ready to take your Instagram game to the next level, check out my Members Area for in-depth training and tips tailored to small business owners. 🎯