Instagram thrives on connection and sharing, so the default account setting is public. Unless you’re less than 16 years old, in which case, your account will be set to private by default.
Public accounts allow you to showcase your creativity, connect with a broader audience, and build a thriving online community. Private accounts don’t do much showcasing. Instead, they focus on keeping you in control of everything. You control who sees what content, and that is really refreshing.
However, there are many reasons why you’d want to make your private account public again. If you’ve come to this decision, don’t fret. This guide will walk you through transforming your private zone into a vibrant public space.
Understanding the Power of Public Accounts
Before we begin, let’s check out the potential benefits of making your Instagram account public:
Increased Visibility
A public account means that your profile, posts, and stories become discoverable by anyone on Instagram. That opens doors for attracting new followers, expanding your reach, and gaining recognition for your content.
Engagement and Community Building
Publicity fosters interaction. Public accounts allow users to like, comment, and share your posts, sparking conversations and building a community around your content.
Potential for Growth
Whether you’re an artist or entrepreneur, a public account allows you to showcase your talents to a broader audience. That can lead to exciting opportunities like collaborations, brand partnerships, or even a chance to turn your passion into a business.
How to Make Your Private Instagram Account Public
Now that you’re ready to open your doors to the people, here’s a simple breakdown of how to make your Instagram account public:
- Access Your Profile: Open the Instagram app and navigate to your profile page. This is done by tapping on your profile picture at the bottom right corner of the screen.
- Open the Settings and Activity Menu: On your profile page, locate the hamburger menu icon at the top right of the screen. Tap on it to get to the “Settings and Activity” menu.
- Find “Account Privacy”: In the Settings and Activity menu, locate the option “Account Privacy.” Tap on it.
- Toggle the “Private Account” Switch: In the “Account Privacy” section, you’ll find a toggle switch labeled “Private Account.” Since your account is private, this switch is likely in the “On” position. Simply tap the switch to turn it off.
- Confirmation Prompt: Instagram will prompt you to confirm your decision. Tap “Switch to Public” to finalize the process. With this, your Instagram account is now public.
Public ≠ Vulnerable: Keep That in Mind
Transitioning to a public account doesn’t automatically mean that you’re compromising on your safety. Here are some security practices to consider:
- Review Your Privacy Settings: While your account is public, you can still control who can message you directly or comment on your posts. The “Settings and Activity menu has a toon of these settings.
- Report Inappropriate Content: Instagram has mechanisms for reporting bullying, harassment, or inappropriate content. Don’t hesitate to use them if necessary.
- Block Unwanted Followers: If a follower makes you uncomfortable, you can block them. That will prevent them from interacting with your account again.
Keeping these in mind would help you better navigate the public world of Instagram. Good luck!
