We can all agree, social media is a powerful tool for promoting online businesses. With over a billion active users, Instagram is one of the leading platforms for both individuals and businesses alike. But is it the right platform for your online business? In this article, we’ll explore the potential benefits of promoting your business on Instagram, how people and businesses are using the platform, and provide actionable steps to maximize your presence.
A Brief History of Instagram
Instagram was launched in October 2010 by Kevin Systrom and Mike Krieger as a photo-sharing app. It allowed users to apply filters to their photos and share them with followers. The simplicity and visual appeal of the platform made it an instant hit, attracting millions of users within a short period.
In 2012, Facebook (now Meta Platforms) saw the growing popularity of Instagram and acquired the platform for approximately $1 billion. The acquisition brought significant changes, such as the introduction of video sharing, direct messaging, and Stories—a feature similar to Snapchat’s disappearing posts. Over the years, Instagram has continued to evolve, with features like IGTV, Instagram Reels, and a dedicated shopping section that allows users to discover and buy products directly from the app.
By 2025, Instagram has solidified its role as a major player in the social media space, providing countless opportunities for individuals and businesses to connect with their audience, build brand awareness, and drive sales.
How People and Businesses Are Using Instagram
Instagram has transformed from a simple photo-sharing app into a platform where businesses and influencers thrive. Here’s how different groups are using the platform:
1. Personal Users
Instagram is still widely used by personal users to share moments from their daily lives, connect with friends, and follow influencers and brands. It remains a highly visual platform, with users posting images, videos, and Stories to engage with their audience.
2. Influencers
Influencers are one of the most prominent groups on Instagram, leveraging their large followings to promote products and services. These influencers often collaborate with brands to create sponsored posts or giveaways that boost visibility and trust. Influencer marketing has become a core part of many companies’ Instagram strategies.
3. Small and Large Businesses
Businesses, ranging from small startups to multinational corporations, use Instagram to promote their products or services, build their brand, and engage with their customers. Instagram offers tools for creating ads, promoting posts, and running campaigns that target specific audiences based on location, interests, and behaviors. For e-commerce brands, the integration of Instagram Shopping has made it easier to showcase products and drive sales without users leaving the app.
4. Content Creators and Entrepreneurs
From fashion designers and fitness coaches to artists and chefs, content creators use Instagram to showcase their work and build a community. Entrepreneurs also use the platform to promote their brands, whether it’s through eye-catching visuals or behind-the-scenes glimpses into their businesses.
5. Service Providers
Instagram isn’t just for physical products. Service-based businesses such as consultants, coaches, photographers, and event planners use the platform to market their expertise. They often share educational content, testimonials, and tutorials to build credibility and generate leads.
Why Should You Promote Your Online Business on Instagram?
Now that you understand how people and businesses use Instagram, let’s dive into why you should consider promoting your online business on the platform.
1. Vast and Engaged User Base
With over 1.3 billion active users in 2025, Instagram offers an immense pool of potential customers. More importantly, Instagram users are highly engaged. According to recent studies, Instagram users spend an average of 30 minutes per day on the platform, and 81% of them use it to research products and services. This means that Instagram users are not just scrolling aimlessly—they are actively looking for things to buy or businesses to follow.
2. Visual Content Appeals to Customers
Instagram’s focus on visual content allows businesses to showcase their products or services in a creative and compelling way. Whether you’re a fashion brand posting styled photos of your new collection or a coffee shop showing off your latest drink, Instagram’s visual nature allows you to create a more immersive experience for your audience.
3. Instagram Ads and Shopping
Instagram’s advertising tools are among the most sophisticated, allowing you to target specific demographics, behaviors, and interests. You can also take advantage of Instagram Shopping, which enables users to buy directly from your posts. This streamlined shopping experience can significantly reduce the friction between discovery and purchase, helping you boost your sales.
4. Influencer Partnerships
Working with influencers who align with your brand can expand your reach to new audiences. Influencers often have highly engaged followings, and a recommendation from the right influencer can drive traffic and sales to your online business.
5. Authentic Engagement
Instagram allows for genuine interactions with your audience through comments, direct messages, and Stories. These engagement opportunities build a sense of community and loyalty around your brand, which can translate into long-term customer relationships.
How to Get Started on Instagram
If you’re ready to promote your online business on Instagram, follow these steps to set yourself up for success:
1. Create a Business Account
If you haven’t already, switch to an Instagram business account. This gives you access to valuable tools such as Instagram Insights, which provides data on your followers, post performance, and engagement. You’ll also have access to Instagram Ads and Instagram Shopping.
2. Optimize Your Profile
Your profile is often the first point of contact with potential customers, so make sure it’s optimized. Use a clear and professional profile photo (such as your logo), write a compelling bio that explains what your business offers, and include a link to your website or a landing page.
3. Post High-Quality Content Consistently
Consistency is key to building a strong Instagram presence. Post high-quality photos and videos that reflect your brand’s aesthetic, and use Instagram Stories and Reels to keep your audience engaged. A mix of product-focused posts, user-generated content, and behind-the-scenes content can create a well-rounded strategy.
4. Engage with Your Audience
Reply to comments, respond to direct messages, and interact with your followers. Engaging with your audience builds trust and fosters a sense of community around your brand.
5. Leverage Instagram Ads
Instagram Ads can help you reach a larger audience. Start small by promoting your best-performing posts, and use Instagram’s targeting tools to ensure your ads are reaching the right people.
6. Partner with Influencers
Influencer marketing remains one of the most effective strategies on Instagram. Identify influencers in your niche, and collaborate with them to promote your products or services. Make sure to choose influencers whose values and audience align with your brand.
Conclusion
Instagram remains one of the most valuable platforms for online businesses in 2025. With its massive user base, visual appeal, and robust advertising tools, it’s an ideal platform to promote your brand and reach new customers. By creating high-quality content, engaging with your audience, and leveraging Instagram’s advertising features, you can effectively promote your online business and drive growth.
If you haven’t already, it’s time to get on Instagram and start using it to your advantage!
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