tips to increase engagement on instagram: 13 Powerful Proven Ways 2025
Why Instagram Engagement Matters for Your Business
Looking for tips to increase engagement on Instagram? Here are 13 proven strategies:
- Track your engagement metrics (good rate: 0.70-3%)
- Mix content types (Reels, Carousels, Stories, Images)
- Post consistently at optimal times
- Use strategic hashtags and location tags
- Write conversation-sparking captions
- Leverage interactive Stories features
- Create Reels for maximum reach
- Design saveable carousel content
- Collaborate with relevant creators
- Run strategic giveaways
- Share user-generated content
- Respond quickly to comments and DMs
- Use analytics to optimize your strategy
Instagram engagement isn’t just about collecting likes—it’s the foundation of your social media success. When people interact with your content through comments, shares, and saves, you’re building genuine connections that translate to business growth.
With over a billion monthly users scrolling through their feeds, standing out on Instagram may seem challenging. But meaningful engagement is entirely within your reach with the right approach.
Instagram’s algorithm prioritizes content that generates interactions, making engagement critical for visibility. As Donna Moritz wisely notes, “Instagram engagement is not just about likes – what you really want is conversations, and true engagement.”
The median engagement rate across all industries is 0.43%, but this varies widely. Higher education sees rates around 2.43%, while sports teams average 1.57%. For most businesses, achieving 1-3% is considered good, with anything above 3% being excellent.
I’m Michelle Gifford, a marketing agency owner who has helped businesses triple their Instagram following and revenue using these tips to increase engagement on Instagram. As a speaker at Social Media Marketing World and other major conferences, I focus on helping entrepreneurs build personal brands that convert followers into customers.
1. Understand & Track Your Engagement Metrics
Let’s face it—we all love seeing those likes roll in, but do you know what your Instagram engagement rate actually is? This little number tells you how actively your audience connects with your content compared to how many followers you have. Think of it as your Instagram report card!
Why tracking tips to increase engagement on instagram matters
I always tell my clients: “You can’t grow what you don’t know.” When you regularly check your engagement metrics, you’re not just collecting numbers—you’re gathering insights that power your Instagram strategy.
Tracking helps you find which photos make your audience stop scrolling, which captions get them talking, and which content types they can’t help but save. With these insights, you can craft content that genuinely resonates instead of just hoping for the best.
The basic engagement formula is simple:
Engagement Rate = (Likes + Comments + Saves) ÷ Followers × 100
So if your cute coffee shop photo gets 200 likes, 50 thoughtful comments, and 30 people save it for later (from your 5,000 followers), you’re looking at a 5.6% engagement rate—which is honestly fantastic!
For an even deeper understanding, try calculating based on impressions instead of followers:
Engagement Rate = (Likes + Comments + Saves) ÷ Impressions × 100
This approach factors in everyone who saw your post, not just your followers, giving you a clearer picture of how truly engaging your content is.
Now, what’s considered “good” engagement? According to recent data, the average hovers around 0.70%, but this varies wildly across industries. Higher education accounts often see rates around 2.43%, while sports teams typically enjoy 1.57%.
Account size matters too—those cozy nano-influencer accounts with 1,000-10,000 followers tend to have the highest engagement rates at about 2.19%. And different content types perform differently: Reels typically see 1.23% engagement, carousels 0.99%, and single images 0.70%.
Don’t want to do the math yourself? I’ve created a free Instagram engagement calculator spreadsheet that does all the calculations automatically. Just plug in your numbers, and you’ll instantly see where you stand!
These metrics aren’t just numbers—they’re feedback from your community about what they want more of. Use them as your compass to guide your content strategy, and you’ll see those engagement numbers start climbing.
2. Nail Your Content Mix: Reels, Carousels, Stories & Images
Not all content types perform equally on Instagram. Understanding which formats drive the most engagement is crucial for optimizing your strategy.
We’re living in Instagram’s video-first era, and the numbers tell the story. When I analyze accounts that are thriving, I consistently see that Reels lead the pack with an average engagement rate of 1.23%. This isn’t surprising—Instagram has been pushing video content heavily, and users are responding.
Carousels come in as strong performers too, with engagement rates averaging 0.99%. I love carousels because they give your audience multiple chances to connect with your content. Plus, Instagram will often resurface your carousel in followers’ feeds if they didn’t swipe through all slides initially—talk about a second chance at engagement!
Traditional image posts still have their place with a respectable 0.70% engagement rate. They’re quick to create and can be powerful when used strategically.
Stories deserve special mention. While they don’t generate the same measurable engagement metrics as feed content, they’re invaluable for staying top-of-mind with your audience throughout the day.
I recently spoke with Christine Colling, a talented Social Media Manager who shared something that made my jaw drop: “Since introducing Reels to our Instagram channel, we’ve seen our engagement grow by 280%.” That kind of growth is game-changing for a business of any size.
The shift to video is undeniable—91% of active Instagram users now watch video content weekly. Even more telling, 42% of consumers prefer short-form videos under 15 seconds from brands. Instagram is no longer just a photo-sharing app; it’s evolved into a dynamic, multi-format platform.
For my clients looking to maximize their tips to increase engagement on Instagram, I typically recommend this balanced content mix:
- 40% Reels for maximum reach and algorithm favor
- 30% Carousels for in-depth value and multiple engagement touchpoints
- 20% Single images for quick, visual impact
- 10% Experimental content to test new features Instagram is promoting
This mix gives you the best of all worlds—the reach of Reels, the value-packed nature of carousels, the simplicity of images, and room to experiment with whatever Instagram is currently pushing in its algorithm.
The best content strategy isn’t just about following trends—it’s about understanding what resonates with your specific audience. Pay attention to which formats your followers engage with most, and don’t be afraid to adjust your mix accordingly. The data gives us a starting point, but your unique audience will ultimately guide your perfect content formula.
3. Post Consistently at Optimal Times
Showing up regularly on Instagram isn’t just good advice—it’s essential for building engagement. As social media expert Marnely Murray perfectly puts it, “Consistency kills the competition.” But finding that sweet spot of how often to post and when can feel like a delicate balancing act.
Adam Mosseri, Head of Instagram, has shared his own recommendation of “posting two Stories per day to maximize engagement and stay at the top of the feed.” For your main feed content, successful accounts typically maintain at least one post daily. That said, I always remind my clients that quality trumps quantity every single time—better to post amazing content three times a week than mediocre content daily.
When it comes to timing, recent research has uncovered some fascinating patterns for peak engagement:
Wednesday at 11 a.m. tends to see higher engagement rates across industries, while Thursday between 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. offers another golden window of opportunity. Friday at 10 a.m. rounds out the top three times, with Tuesday claiming the crown as generally the best overall day to post.
But here’s the thing—your specific audience might march to the beat of their own drum. That’s why I always encourage diving into your Instagram Insights to find exactly when your unique followers are most active. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different posting times over a few weeks to find what works specifically for your community.
The secret weapon in maintaining consistency? A thoughtfully planned content calendar. Creating this roadmap allows you to plan content themes in advance, batch-create posts (saving precious time), ensure you’re mixing up content types, maintain visual cohesion across your profile, and schedule posts for those optimal times—even when life gets hectic.
If you’re finding consistency challenging despite your best efforts, you might be falling into some common Instagram traps. Take a moment to check out my guide on Want to Grow on Instagram? Stop Doing These 7 Things to identify and correct potential issues that might be holding you back.
Consistency builds trust. When followers know they can count on seeing your content regularly, they’re more likely to engage with it—and that’s exactly what these tips to increase engagement on Instagram are all about.
4. Master Hashtags & Location Tags
Hashtags might seem like old news in the Instagram world, but trust me—they remain one of the most powerful tips to increase engagement on Instagram. Many businesses either overlook them entirely or throw random popular tags on their posts without much thought. Let’s change that approach!
Instagram has evolved its hashtag functionality to work more like a search engine. Think of hashtags as SEO keywords for your content—they help the right people find you, even if they’ve never heard of your brand before.
When I work with clients, I recommend using 5-10 highly relevant hashtags rather than maxing out all 30 allowed. Quality trumps quantity every time! A strategic mix works wonders: combine some moderately popular hashtags (100k-500k posts) with more niche, targeted ones (5k-100k posts) for the best results.
Creating your own branded hashtag is another game-changer. It not only helps organize your content but also encourages followers to use it when sharing their experiences with your brand. This creates a wonderful community feeling and gives you a collection of potential content to reshare.
“Using a mix of popular and niche hashtags is like casting a wide net while also targeting specific fish,” as our team’s hashtag specialist often explains. “The popular ones give you reach, while the niche ones connect you with your ideal audience.”
Don’t forget about location tags—they’re the unsung heroes of local engagement! When you tag your physical location in posts, you instantly become visible to people browsing that location’s feed. This is particularly powerful for brick-and-mortar businesses, events, or if you’re trying to connect with a local community. Your post essentially gets a second home beyond your profile, increasing its chances of being finded.
Location tags also signal relevance to nearby followers and can significantly improve your chances of appearing in location-based searches. It’s like planting a digital flag that says “We’re here!”
Research trending hashtags in your industry regularly, but be careful to avoid banned or spammy hashtags that could limit your reach instead of expanding it. Tools like Flick or Later can help identify relevant hashtags for your niche.
For a comprehensive deep dive into hashtag strategy (including lists of effective hashtags by industry), check out our Ultimate Guide to Instagram Hashtags. It’s packed with actionable advice to take your hashtag game to the next level!
5. Write Captions That Spark Conversation
The perfect Instagram caption can transform a casual scroll into a meaningful interaction. While your stunning visuals might catch someone’s eye, it’s often your words that determine whether they’ll actually engage with your post.
Madison Utendahl, a seasoned content strategist, points out something crucial about today’s Instagram: “Now you need to be thinking about your saves and shares.” These deeper engagement metrics have become increasingly important in how Instagram’s algorithm evaluates and distributes your content.
Your caption is the perfect opportunity to start a conversation with your audience. When I work with clients, I always emphasize that the most engaging captions do more than describe the image—they invite interaction.
Start with a strong hook in those first 1-2 lines before Instagram cuts off your text with the “more” button. This prime real estate needs to grab attention immediately, or viewers might never expand to read the rest.
Questions work wonders for sparking engagement. Something as simple as “What’s your favorite way to unwind after a busy week?” can generate dozens of responses. People love sharing their experiences and opinions when directly invited to do so.
Always include a clear call-to-action. Phrases like “Double tap if you can relate,” “Share this with someone who needs this reminder,” or “Save this for your next planning session” give your audience specific directions on how to engage. I’ve found that being direct about the action you want people to take actually increases the likelihood they’ll do it.
Personal storytelling creates genuine connection. When you share authentic experiences, challenges, or victories, you become relatable. Your audience sees the human behind the brand and feels more comfortable engaging with you.
While there’s no perfect caption length, data suggests that captions under 30 words receive the highest engagement rates. That said, don’t sacrifice substance for brevity—sometimes a longer, value-packed caption is exactly what your audience needs.
Emojis add personality and visual breaks in your text. They can help express emotion and make your captions more scannable and appealing.
Jasmine Star, a respected Instagram strategist, demonstrates these principles brilliantly with captions like: “What are you most proud of in your business this year? I want to celebrate WITH you!” This simple question generated over 40 comments because it invited followers to share meaningful accomplishments in a supportive space.
Engagement is a two-way street. The “golden hour”—that first 60 minutes after posting—is critical. Responding quickly to comments during this window creates conversation loops that not only deepen relationships but also signal to Instagram’s algorithm that your content is generating meaningful interaction.
Tips to increase engagement on Instagram through captions isn’t about tricks or gimmicks—it’s about starting genuine conversations that make your followers feel seen and valued. When you shift your focus from broadcasting to connecting, engagement naturally follows.
6. Leverage Interactive Stories Features
Instagram Stories provide immediate, interactive engagement opportunities that feed posts can’t match. With over 500 million people using Stories daily, they’re essential for staying top-of-mind with your audience.
Think of Stories as your digital coffee shop – a place where casual conversations happen naturally. The beauty of Stories is how they transform passive scrollers into active participants through their interactive features.
When you use polls in your Stories, you’re essentially starting a conversation. “Do you prefer working from home or the office?” can spark dozens of responses in minutes. The quiz sticker adds a fun, gamified element – I’ve seen brands use these to educate followers about their products while keeping them entertained.
One of my clients saw their Story replies jump by 300% after implementing regular question boxes for “Ask Me Anything” sessions. There’s something irresistible about the opportunity to get a direct answer from someone you follow.
“Using the question sticker to host an AMA is like having a direct conversation with your audience,” they shared with me after seeing such dramatic results.
The emoji slider gives followers a low-effort way to share opinions, while countdown stickers build anticipation for your launches or events. I particularly love the “Add Yours” sticker – it creates a ripple effect of content sharing that can significantly expand your reach.
And don’t forget about link stickers – they’re your bridge between engaging content and meaningful action, whether that’s visiting your blog, shop, or signing up for your newsletter.
Adam Mosseri (Head of Instagram) recommends posting at least 2 Stories daily, and I’ve found this “two-story rule” to be the sweet spot for staying visible without overwhelming your audience. The 24-hour expiration creates a sense of urgency that encourages quicker responses than feed posts typically receive.
For maximum impact, create a consistent Story aesthetic that aligns with your brand, save key Stories as Highlights for permanent visibility, and mix photo and video content to keep things interesting. Most importantly, include a clear call-to-action in most Stories – even something as simple as “DM me your thoughts!”
The casual format of Stories allows for more authentic, behind-the-scenes content that humanizes your brand. Those unpolished, in-the-moment glimpses often generate more engagement than perfectly curated feed posts because they feel more personal and genuine.
Remember to respond to all Story replies promptly – this turns a single interaction into an ongoing conversation and signals to Instagram that you’re actively engaging with your community, which is one of the most powerful tips to increase engagement on Instagram.
7. Go All-In on Reels for Maximum Reach
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from working with hundreds of Instagram accounts, it’s that Reels have completely changed the game. In 2025, short-form video isn’t just an option – it’s essential for anyone serious about growing their Instagram presence.
“Instagram Reels are still a one-way ticket to reach on Instagram,” as one social media expert perfectly puts it. And the numbers don’t lie: Reels get 36% more reach than carousels and a whopping 125% more reach than single images. That’s the kind of visibility difference that can transform your account’s growth trajectory.
When I first started creating Reels for clients, I was amazed at how quickly their engagement skyrocketed. One small business owner went from reaching 500 people per post to over 5,000 with her very first Reel – all because she acceptd the format Instagram clearly favors.
Keep your Reels short and sweet – while Instagram allows up to 3 minutes, the sweet spot is really 15-30 seconds. Attention spans are precious, and brevity often leads to better completion rates.
The first 3 seconds are everything. I always tell my clients to start with something that stops the scroll – a surprising fact, a compelling question, or visually striking imagery. If you don’t hook viewers immediately, they’ll keep scrolling.
85% of videos are watched without sound, so adding captions or text overlays isn’t just an accessibility feature – it’s essential for engagement. I’ve seen Reels with good text overlays perform twice as well as those without.
Trending audio can give your Reels a significant boost. When you use popular sounds, you’re essentially joining a conversation that’s already gaining traction. Just make sure the audio makes sense for your brand and message.
One approach that consistently works well is educational content. My clients who share genuine expertise through how-tos, quick tips, or mini-tutorials see dramatically higher save rates – and saves are gold in Instagram’s current algorithm.
Don’t be afraid to show your personality. The days of picture-perfect content are fading – authenticity connects far better than polished perfection. Some of my most successful clients simply show their real workspace, share genuine challenges, or add a touch of humor to their content.
Always include a clear call-to-action. Whether you’re asking viewers to comment with their thoughts, save the Reel for later, or visit your link in bio, giving people direction increases the likelihood they’ll actually engage.
One mistake I see too often: reposting TikToks or other platform content with visible watermarks. Instagram has openly stated they deprioritize content with watermarks from other platforms, so always create native content when possible.
Instagram’s own guidance makes their priority clear: “Reels is designed to help you find new things, with an emphasis on entertainment.” This means your content needs to be not just informative but genuinely engaging and entertaining.
For deeper insights and tips to increase engagement on Instagram through Reels, check out our Ultimate Guide to Instagram Reels. And if you’re curious about how Instagram’s algorithm ranks different content types, their official explanation in Instagram ranking explained is illuminating.
8. Boost Engagement With Saveable Carousels & Infographics
While Reels might be the reach champions of Instagram, carousels are the engagement powerhouses that keep your audience coming back. These multi-slide wonders are perfect for delivering deep value that your followers will actually save for later – which is pure gold for the algorithm.
One of the most beautiful things about carousels? If someone doesn’t swipe through all your slides the first time around, Instagram might resurface your post in their feed later. It’s like getting a second chance to capture their attention – something no other content format offers!
When I work with clients on creating save-worthy carousels, I always emphasize valuable content first. Step-by-step tutorials break down complex ideas into bite-sized pieces that people genuinely appreciate. Before-and-after changes tell a compelling visual story without saying a word. Listicle-style carousels with numbered tips (like “7 Ways to Grow Your Email List”) practically beg to be saved for later reference.
“Create your social media presence around what your customers want to see versus giving people what you want them to have,” advises D’Shawn Russell, a successful entrepreneur whose wisdom I share with all my clients. This customer-first mindset is exactly what makes carousels so effective – they’re designed to serve, not sell.
I’ve found that data visualizations perform exceptionally well when they transform complex statistics into easily digestible graphics. Quote collections give your audience inspirational content they can return to whenever they need a boost. And if you’re product-based, multi-angle showcases let customers see everything they need before making a decision.
The design of your carousel matters just as much as the content. Start with an eye-catching first slide – this is your “thumbnail” and needs to stop the scroll. Maintain visual consistency across all slides with cohesive colors, fonts, and layouts. I always recommend including a simple progress indicator (like “1/10”) so people know how many slides to expect.
Remember to keep text concise – aim for no more than 15-20 words per slide with strong contrast for readability. And don’t forget that final slide! End with a clear call-to-action that prompts saving, sharing, or visiting your profile.
In Instagram’s current algorithm landscape, saves have become one of the most valuable engagement metrics. They signal to Instagram that your content isn’t just likeable – it’s reference-worthy. When someone saves your carousel, they’re essentially saying, “This is so good I want to come back to it later.” There’s no higher compliment in the Instagram world.
So while your tips to increase engagement on Instagram strategy should definitely include Reels for reach, don’t underestimate the power of a well-crafted carousel to deepen your relationship with your audience and boost those all-important save metrics.
9. Collaborate With Influencers & Creators
Partnerships on Instagram can be pure magic for your engagement. The platform’s Collabs feature has made joining forces with other creators easier than ever, allowing two accounts to co-author content that appears on both profiles—talk about a win-win!
Here’s something fascinating we’ve finded: nano-influencers (those with just 1k-10k followers) actually generate the highest average engagement rate at 2.19%. Compare that to macro-influencers at 0.86%, and you’ll see why bigger isn’t always better. Those smaller, more intimate communities often respond more enthusiastically to content than the massive followings of celebrity accounts.
Think of collaborations as digital introductions. When you partner with another creator, you’re essentially saying to your audience, “Hey, I think this person is worth your attention,” and they’re doing the same for you. This mutual endorsement builds instant credibility that’s hard to achieve on your own.
Finding the right collaboration partners is crucial. Look for creators whose audience resembles your ideal customers—not necessarily identical to your current followers, but people who would genuinely benefit from what you offer. Before sliding into their DMs, spend time genuinely engaging with their content. Comment thoughtfully, share their posts, and build a relationship organically.
When you’re ready to collaborate, start small with micro or nano-influencers. Not only do they offer better engagement rates, but they’re often more open to creative partnerships that feel authentic to both audiences. Authenticity trumps reach almost every time when it comes to meaningful engagement.
Instagram’s Improved Tags feature ensures proper credit and enables content findy, making it easier for new audiences to find both collaborators. This feature is particularly valuable for smaller creators looking to expand their reach through partnerships.
Creating Reels together can boost your engagement—collaborative videos often perform better than solo content because they bring fresh energy and introduce new faces to your feed. Our clients who’ve tried this approach have seen engagement increases of up to 35% compared to their standard content.
Another effective strategy is hosting takeovers, where you allow partners to create content for your Stories for a day. This creates excitement and gives your audience a fresh perspective while introducing your profile to your partner’s followers.
Before approaching potential collaborators, prepare a clear value proposition. What’s in it for them? Maybe you have expertise they lack, or perhaps your audience demographics complement theirs perfectly. The strongest collaborations benefit both parties equally.
As Michelle often says to our clients, “The most powerful collaborations feel so natural that followers forget they’re even seeing a partnership.” That’s the sweet spot we’re aiming for—where promotional content feels like a genuine recommendation from a trusted friend.
Cross-promotion extends beyond the initial collaboration. Share and comment on each other’s content regularly to maintain the relationship and continue exposing your profile to their audience. These ongoing interactions create a ripple effect of engagement that can benefit both accounts long-term.
Looking for more tips to increase engagement on Instagram? Collaborations are just one piece of the puzzle—but when done right, they can be one of your most powerful tools for authentic growth.
10. Run Giveaways & Contests the Right Way
Let’s talk about giveaways – they’re like magic for Instagram engagement when done right! I’ve seen businesses transform their engagement overnight with a well-executed contest. But there’s definitely a sweet spot between exciting giveaways and what Instagram might flag as “engagement bait.”
I remember working with a client who was hesitant about running giveaways. “Won’t it just attract freebie-seekers?” she asked. After running her first strategic giveaway, she was amazed to see not just a surge in engagement but genuine community building happening in her comments section.
To create giveaways that spark genuine excitement and meaningful connections:
Choose prizes your actual audience wants. This seems obvious, but I’ve seen too many accounts giving away generic Amazon gift cards when they could offer something aligned with their brand. The most successful giveaways feature prizes that your ideal followers truly desire – preferably something related to your products or services.
Keep entry requirements simple but effective. Ask participants to follow your account, like the post, leave a thoughtful comment, and perhaps tag one or two friends who might genuinely be interested. When you make the entry process too complicated, participation drops dramatically.
Set a reasonable timeframe for your giveaway. I’ve found 3-7 days works perfectly – long enough to build momentum but short enough to maintain excitement. Any longer and people forget they entered; any shorter and you miss out on potential reach.
Promote across multiple touchpoints. Don’t just post once and hope for the best! Create Stories highlights, send email notifications to your list, and consider a small ad budget to boost your giveaway post.
One of our clients ran a particularly successful giveaway last year. They created a prize package worth about $150 that included their skincare products plus complementary items from partner brands. They kept entry simple: follow, like, comment with your favorite self-care ritual, and tag two friends who deserved some pampering.
The results? Over 1,200 comments (many sharing heartfelt self-care stories), 800+ new quality followers, and a 45% jump in profile visits that lasted well beyond the giveaway period. The key was that the contest created what we call “excitement loops” – where participants genuinely wanted to share the opportunity with friends.
A word of caution though: Instagram’s algorithm has gotten smarter about detecting “engagement bait.” Avoid language like “tag as many friends as possible” or “comment as many times as you can” – these tactics might give you a temporary engagement boost but can trigger restrictions that hurt your account long-term.
After selecting winners (always do this transparently, using a random comment picker tool), don’t forget about everyone else who participated! Consider offering a small consolation prize or special discount code to non-winners. This thoughtful touch turns potential disappointment into another opportunity for connection.
The best tips to increase engagement on Instagram focus on building genuine community, not just chasing metrics. A well-executed giveaway does both!
11. Encourage & Share User-Generated Content
There’s something magical about seeing real customers showcase your products or services on their own Instagram accounts. This user-generated content (UGC) creates a powerful ripple effect of trust and authenticity that no polished marketing campaign can match.
When your actual customers become your advocates, potential customers take notice. It’s like having your most enthusiastic fans do your marketing for you – but in the most genuine way possible.
One of our chocolate brand clients experienced this firsthand. After implementing a strategic UGC approach, they saw engagement skyrocket by 78%. Their strategy was beautifully simple: they created a branded hashtag, featured a “Customer of the Week” every Friday, and occasionally surprised content creators with unexpected gifts. The result? A thriving community of customers eager to share their experiences.
The beauty of UGC is that it works equally well for product and service-based businesses. If you offer services, encourage clients to share their results, experiences, or testimonials. Before-and-after content and process videos can be particularly compelling forms of UGC for service providers.
To make UGC a cornerstone of your tips to increase engagement on Instagram strategy:
Create a branded hashtag that’s uniquely yours – something short, memorable, and directly tied to your business identity. This gives customers an easy way to flag their content for your attention while creating a searchable gallery of authentic experiences.
Don’t be shy about asking for content! Include clear calls-to-action in your packaging, email communications, and regular posts. Most customers are happy to share their experiences when prompted, especially if there’s a chance of being featured on your account.
When followers do tag you or use your hashtag, make it a priority to engage with every single post. A simple like and genuine comment shows appreciation and encourages continued sharing. And always, always obtain proper permission before reposting someone’s content to your own feed.
Featuring UGC regularly in your content mix signals to your audience that you value their input and appreciate their support. Consider creating a dedicated Stories highlight filled with customer content – it serves as permanent social proof for new profile visitors.
“User-generated content builds community in a way branded content simply can’t,” explains our content strategist. “When potential customers see real people enjoying your products or services, it creates an immediate sense of trust and FOMO that drives both engagement and conversions.”
The most powerful tips to increase engagement on Instagram are often the ones that turn your passive audience into active participants in your brand story. UGC does exactly that – it transforms customers into collaborators and builds a community that engages not just with you, but with each other.
12. Respond Fast to Comments & DMs
Engagement isn’t a one-way street—it’s a conversation. Perhaps the simplest yet most overlooked of all our tips to increase engagement on Instagram is consistently responding to your audience when they reach out to you.
Think about it: when someone takes the time to comment on your post or send you a message, they’re initiating a connection. How you respond (and how quickly) can turn that single interaction into an ongoing relationship.
“Social media isn’t a megaphone; it’s a telephone,” notes one of our social media experts. “When you pick up that call promptly, you’re showing followers they matter to you.”
The “golden hour” after posting is particularly crucial. Instagram’s algorithm pays attention to how quickly engagement happens after you publish content. When you respond within the first hour, you’re signaling to the algorithm that your post is generating meaningful conversations—which can boost your visibility substantially.
I’ve seen this work with clients. One boutique owner made it a policy to respond to every comment within 30 minutes during business hours. Within just two months, her average comment count per post jumped by 65%. Why? Her followers knew they’d get a thoughtful response, which made commenting feel worthwhile.
For managing responses effectively, I recommend setting up saved replies for common questions. This little time-saver lets you maintain a personal touch without typing the same answers repeatedly. I also suggest enabling notifications for comments and DMs so nothing slips through the cracks, and blocking out 15-30 minutes daily specifically for engagement.
For direct messages, consider setting up an automated welcome message for first-time conversations. Something simple like, “Thanks for reaching out! I check messages throughout the day and will get back to you ASAP” sets expectations while showing you value the connection.
The beauty of responsive engagement is that it creates what I call “conversation loops.” When you ask a follow-up question in your response, you’re inviting the person to continue the dialogue, which generates even more engagement signals for the algorithm.
As Shana Bull wisely points out, “People simply just want to talk about their experience because social media is about being social.” In our rush to create perfect content, we sometimes forget this fundamental truth. Your followers aren’t just metrics—they’re people looking to connect.
Every comment deserves acknowledgment, even if it’s just a simple “Thank you!” or an emoji. This kind of attentiveness transforms casual followers into loyal community members who’ll champion your brand long-term.
13. Optimize With Analytics & A/B Testing
The final and perhaps most powerful tip to increase engagement on Instagram is embracing a data-driven approach. Instead of relying on hunches or copying competitors, your own analytics hold the key to open uping what truly resonates with your audience.
When I work with clients, they’re often surprised to find that their assumptions about what performs well are completely different from what the data shows. Your Instagram Insights are like a treasure map pointing directly to engagement gold – you just need to know how to read it!
Data-driven tips to increase engagement on instagram
Think of your Instagram strategy as an ongoing experiment. Each post provides valuable data that can inform your next move. Start by diving deep into your top-performing content. What elements do these posts share? Is it the vibrant imagery, the storytelling approach, or perhaps the specific topics that capture attention?
The beauty of Instagram is that you can test virtually every element. Try posting similar content at slightly different times to identify your optimal posting window. Experiment with caption lengths – some audiences prefer quick, punchy text while others engage more with thoughtful, longer narratives.
Compare content formats carefully. While Reels generally perform well across accounts, your specific audience might engage more deeply with carousels or image posts. Let the data guide you rather than following generic advice.
One often-overlooked metric worth tracking is your saves-to-impressions ratio. When someone saves your post, they’re essentially telling Instagram, “This is so valuable I want to reference it later.” This signals high-quality content to the algorithm.
For Stories, completion rates reveal exactly where viewers lose interest. If you notice significant drop-offs after specific slides, examine what might be causing viewers to exit. Perhaps the visual style changed or the information became less compelling.
I’ve seen remarkable changes when brands commit to this testing approach. One client finded that posting questions in the first line of captions (rather than the middle or end) increased their comment count by 47%. Another found that their audience engaged significantly more with posts that included faces versus product-only images.
Remember what social media expert Jenn Herman wisely notes: “It’s much easier to lose an audience than gain one.” This makes ongoing optimization crucial for sustained engagement growth.
For those ready to take their Instagram strategy to the next level, check out our comprehensive guide on Instagram Growth Marketing Secrets You Never Knew. It dives deeper into advanced analytics strategies that can transform your engagement rates.
The most successful Instagram accounts aren’t necessarily those with the most followers or the biggest budgets – they’re the ones that consistently test, learn, and adapt based on what their specific audience responds to best.
Frequently Asked Questions about Instagram Engagement
What is a good engagement rate on Instagram in 2025?
Wondering what counts as “good” engagement these days? The social media landscape is always evolving, but as of the latest data, you’re doing well if you hit 0.70% or higher. Breaking that 1% threshold? That’s great! And if you’re seeing numbers above 3%, you’re absolutely crushing it.
That said, these numbers aren’t one-size-fits-all. Your industry makes a huge difference – higher education institutions enjoy rates around 2.43%, while sports teams typically see about 1.57%. Nonprofits also tend to perform better than average when it comes to engagement.
Account size matters too. If you’re a smaller account, you’ll likely see higher engagement percentages than larger accounts (which is why nano-influencers often outperform celebrities in engagement rate). And don’t forget that content type plays a major role – Reels (1.23%) and carousels (0.99%) typically generate more interaction than single images (0.70%).
Rather than obsessing over industry benchmarks, I recommend tracking your own progress over time. Your personal growth trajectory is a much more meaningful metric than comparing yourself to general standards.
How is Instagram engagement rate calculated?
The math behind engagement isn’t complicated, but it’s important to understand. The standard formula most marketers use is:
(Likes + Comments + Saves) ÷ Followers × 100
For example, if your post gets 150 likes, 25 comments, and 30 saves, and you have 5,000 followers, your engagement rate would be:
(150 + 25 + 30) ÷ 5,000 × 100 = 4.1%
If you’re reaching a lot of people beyond your follower count (which is great!), you might want to use this alternative formula for a more accurate picture:
(Likes + Comments + Saves) ÷ Impressions × 100
The good news is you don’t need to calculate this manually – Instagram Insights provides all these metrics if you have a business or creator account.
How often should I post for maximum engagement?
Finding your ideal posting rhythm is key to sustainable growth. Based on our experience with hundreds of accounts, here’s what typically works best:
For feed posts, aim for 1 post daily, or at minimum 4-7 posts weekly. With Stories, Adam Mosseri (Head of Instagram) himself recommends 2-5 daily to stay top-of-mind. When it comes to Reels – the current engagement powerhouse – try for 3-5 weekly. And for Lives, 1-2 per month is sufficient for most businesses, depending on your specific audience.
But here’s the truth: consistency trumps frequency every time. It’s far better to maintain a sustainable posting schedule you can actually keep up with than to post like crazy for two weeks and then disappear when you burn out.
As D’Shawn Russell wisely points out: “There was a time when Instagram was all about pretty pictures, and that’s long gone.” Today’s Instagram rewards valuable content that generates meaningful interactions, not just beautiful aesthetics.
These tips to increase engagement on Instagram are guidelines, not rigid rules. The best approach is always to listen to your specific audience, analyze your personal data, and adjust accordingly.
Conclusion
After diving into these 13 tips to increase engagement on Instagram, you’re now equipped with strategies that go far beyond simply boosting metrics. When implemented thoughtfully, these approaches can transform your Instagram presence from a one-way broadcasting channel into a vibrant, interactive community that genuinely impacts your bottom line.
True engagement is about building relationships. Behind every like, comment, and DM is a real person—someone who could become your next client, customer, or brand advocate. As you put these strategies into action, focus on connecting with the humans behind the profiles rather than obsessing over numbers alone.
Start small by understanding where you currently stand with your metrics. Then begin experimenting with different content formats, finding your optimal posting cadence, and creating more interactive opportunities. The beauty of social media is that you can test, learn, and adjust as you go.
Be patient and consistent. Authentic engagement doesn’t happen overnight, but the compound effect of showing up regularly and responding thoughtfully creates momentum that’s hard to stop once it gets going.
Use your analytics as a compass, not a scorecard. Let data guide your strategic decisions while keeping the human connection at the heart of everything you post. After all, this balance of art and science is what makes social media marketing both challenging and rewarding.
At Michelle Gifford Creative, we’ve seen how meaningful engagement forms the foundation of lasting social media success. We’re passionate about helping entrepreneurs build Instagram communities that don’t just scroll and tap, but ultimately convert into loyal customers who genuinely believe in what you offer.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by implementing all these strategies at once, even small improvements compound over time. Choose one or two techniques to focus on initially, measure your results, and build from there.
For personalized support with your Instagram strategy and more in-depth guidance, check out our Instagram coaching & resources. We’d love to help you transform these engagement tips into tangible business growth that makes a real difference for your brand.
Which of these strategies resonates most with you? Drop a comment below—we’d love to connect and hear about your Instagram journey!
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