Instagram is one of the fastest growing social media platforms, boasting over 400 million active users worldwide (77.6 million in the U.S. alone, according to one source), compared to Twitter’s 305 million active users (in 2015). Although writers primarily use their words to paint a picture, that should not deter you from using Instagram as a way to promote yourself as an author, reader, and member of the publishing community. Sometimes a picture can be worth a 1,000 words.
Here are three short tips and ideas on how to use Instagram.
1. Show a Slice of Your Daily Author Life
What’s particularly appealing about Instagram is that the visual format leads the interaction. Instagram is visually-driven, presenting pictures first and text second as a sort of caption which often includes hashtags to allow others to find your post and see what categories are trending. It’s really fun to follow your favorite authors on Instagram and get a sense of what their life is like, depending on how often they update. Sometimes it’s as simple as the ubiquitous “amwriting” shot of the laptop next to a cup of coffee, sometimes it’s more intimate, showing scenes from a roadtrip or quiet day at home. Variety is the key here. There’s no need for 10 laptop shots in a row, for instance.
2. Engage with Other Readers, Writers, Book Reviewers!
#bookstagram is one hashtag that has been gaining traction with book reviewers, readers, and writers. Posts with the hashtag #bookstagram often feature a pic of a book cover or the spines of a collection of books built around a theme. I just recently promoted one of my client’s books, on Valentine’s day with a simple Instagram post, featuring a new cover and a descriptive summary of the book:
Some other hashtags you might use to promote your post include: #shelfie #currentlyreading #booksofinstagram #bibliophile.
3. Motivate Yourself and Others
Instagram is a great tool for posting memes, quotes, and other motivational sayings. Unlike Twitter which is just limited to text, you can include a background picture of a sunrise along with the your quote of the day. These motivational quotes are really appreciated by all members of the publishing community. It’s easy to create a meme or quote and there are many great apps like Giphy, for instance, that you can use to create memes or GIFs. Be creative and be inspirational!
These are just a few tips on how to use Instagram as an author. Feel free to read more tips from our very own Pip Ballantine and Tee Morris, here. And here are some other great tips from Book Designer Adrienne Erin.
