Like many others, I’m sure you’ve Googled these questions: “How to get more followers on Instagram?” or “How can I get more likes on Instagram?” There is one answer that is simple but often neglected, engagement from you will encourage engagement from your followers.

Sure, people may like your post simply because they enjoy them or think they are aesthetic. However, where you really grow a loyal, constantly engaging follower base is when you think even deeper about the content that you are putting out. The 3 tips I present to you are: Know your followers trends, don’t take too long to respond, and devote your time to your followers.

1. Know your followers trends, or fall behind

This is a very key step in growing an Instagram following at all, let alone increasing the engagement from current followers. Knowing what your followers respond to ensures that you are putting out content catered to them, which will hopefully get them to engage with it, whether that be by liking, commenting, sharing, or doing a combination of the three.

Additionally, posting during peak times guarantees that more eyes will be on your post, and more engagement will be flowing in. Sprout Social says that the best times to post on Instagram are Wednesday at 11 a.m. and Friday at 10-11 a.m. The worst day to post is Sunday.

Of course, certain niches may not reflect this engagement model at all, such as American Football, which I talked about in my last blog post.

2. Don’t take too long to respond, they’ll forget about you

When responding to comments, you have to ensure it is done in a timely manner, at least the same day the comment was left. Mondovo highlights quickness of engagement, and points out that Instagram looks at how quickly a post gets engagement. Comments are an often overlooked form of engagement on Instagram. When you respond to every comment left on your posts, you are increasing the size of the engagement on your posts. This is especially important when you consider that Instagram considers comments and shares as the most influential kinds of engagement.

Taking too long to respond is not only unprofessional, but comes off as less authentic. Also, when people leave a comment on a post they do not care for a response the next day, they are looking to be answered as soon as possible. Basically, don’t try to catch up with replying to yesterday’s comments, focus on today.

3. Devote time to your followers to show you care

It’s not just about responding to followers quickly to get it done, give it some effort. At least one short sentence, not just emojis. According to Sprout Social, willingness to engage with your followers is the most essential social media best practice. They say to engage with your audience and send real responses to interact and humanize your brand. Responding to followers thoughtfully and thoroughly shows that you actually care about them and what you say to them.

This is an easy and surefire way to develop a good image for yourself naturally. Though it does take a good amount of effort and commitment, the benefit is worth it in the long run.

What do you think?

What are some of your own Instagram tips for increasing engagement? What do you think of the 3 I’ve mentioned? Let me know in the comments below, as well as share this blog post with people you think might be interested!