Instagram is not just for sharing pictures anymore! With tons of business features, the platform has become a fabulous place to sell products. Users love the personal touch it brings to e-commerce so much that 130 million people interact with shopping content on Instagram every single month.
With that being said, it’s crucial to know how to sell on Instagram before setting up your account. The good news is that you can sell on Instagram at no cost with an Instagram Business Account. We’re going to cover the basics to get you started with how to sell on Instagram.
The Benefits of Selling on Instagram
First, there are plenty of benefits to selling on Instagram. If you have an online business, you should be utilizing the platform and all of its benefits.
It’s Free
The best part about selling on Instagram is that it won’t cost you anything. You will have to pay for ad campaigns through the Ad Manager, but you can set up a professional account at no cost to you.
Instagram’s Huge User Base
Selling on Instagram gives you access to a global network of billions of monthly active users. This is a great way to expand your reach to untapped markets.
Extensive Features for Selling on Instagram
Instagram Shopping has many features available if you plan to sell on the app such as:
- Shopping Tags
- Instagram Shop
- Checkout Features
- Shoppable Posts
- Instagram Commerce Manager
Instagram is Visually Appealing
Many users flock to Instagram because of how visually appealing it is. The app was designed to showcase photographs, so what better place to show off your beautiful products?
Increased Engagement
Unlike other e-commerce shop platforms, users can interact with your contact just like regular Instagram posts. They can like, share, comment and even send direct messages to you. It adds a personal touch when you’re able to engage directly with your audience.
How to Set Up an Instagram Shop Account
Setting up an account to sell on Instagram is a straightforward process. Following these steps will set you up for selling success!
Create an Instagram Business Account
Already have a personal Instagram account you want to sell on? No problem. You can switch to a business account for no charge through the settings. You’ll have immediate access to features such as data insights, promotions, ads and shopping.
Set Up Your Instagram Shop
Next, you’ll want to set up your shop. You’ll need to connect your Instagram account to Facebook so you can access the Meta Commerce Manager. You can tag your products in posts, stories and reels so users can buy directly from your Instagram. We do recommend you still have your own website since some users will prefer this route.
Complete Your Shop Profile
Your Instagram Shop profile should be fully optimized with no area left blank. You should have your brand’s logo, full bio and contact information ready to go. Let users know what you stand for and why they should buy from your brand.
Create Product Listings
Your posts should have high quality images and captions to let potential buyers know that you know what you’re doing. This is crucial since anyone can set up an Instagram shop account. Information such as price and how to purchase should be accurate. You want to have a seamless user experience.
Tips on How to Sell on Instagram
Focus on Engagement
Your shopping content should be geared towards your audience and encourage engagement. This is a great opportunity to ask questions, get feedback and form a personal bond with your customer base. You want them to know your brand cares about them and isn’t just trying to sell a product.
Use Instagram Ads
We know the draw of Instagram for selling is that you can set up an account for free. Using Instagram Ads, however, will give you a boost and help you expand your reach. You can try it out with a small budget and see if it works for you.
Collaborate With Other Sellers
Partnering with other sellers or influencers is a great way to increase brand awareness. Well-known content creators can post UGC with your products to help you build credibility and improve sales.
Take Your Time With Content
On Instagram, buyers aren’t going to be impressed with just a pretty picture. Your content needs to wow them and convince them that you are the top seller in your niche. Take advantage of every type of content Instagram has to offer. Create compelling posts that you can repurpose into stories and reels. Shop content should also include use cases and reviews from actual customers to build trust.
Keep Track of Metrics and Adapt
Your job isn’t done once you start making sales. It’s important that you monitor how well your content is doing to continue improving your strategy to hit your goals.
Closing Thoughts
Once you set up your profile, selling on Instagram is a breeze. Make sure you maintain your account and update your product listings as needed.
