Introduction
Instagram is one of the most popular social media platforms for both individuals and businesses. But coming up with new content every day can be time-consuming and overwhelming, especially for small business owners. That’s why scheduling Instagram posts is becoming increasingly popular. Not only does it save time, but it also helps ensure a consistent and appealing aesthetic. In this article, we will explore the benefits of scheduling Instagram posts, as well as tips, tricks, and tools for doing it successfully.
5 Instagram Tools to Schedule Your Posts Like a Pro!
There are several different tools available for scheduling Instagram posts, each with its own set of features and benefits. Here are five popular options:
1. Later
Later is a popular Instagram scheduling tool and one of the easiest to use. With an intuitive drag-and-drop interface, you can schedule posts, preview your feed, and plan your content strategy all in one place. Later offers a free plan with limited features, as well as paid plans starting at $15 per month. Users appreciate Later’s customer support and the ability to schedule Instagram Stories in addition to regular posts.
2. Hootsuite
Hootsuite is a social media management platform that includes scheduling tools for Instagram and other platforms. You can schedule posts, manage comments, and track analytics all in one place. Hootsuite starts at $19 per month, and users appreciate the platform’s advanced analytics and ease of use.
3. Buffer
Buffer is another popular social media scheduling tool, with plans starting at $15 per month. The platform offers a browser extension that allows you to schedule Instagram posts directly from the desktop. Users appreciate Buffer’s simple and user-friendly interface, as well as the ability to schedule posts across multiple social media platforms.
4. Sprout Social
Sprout Social is a comprehensive social media management platform with scheduling, analytics, and customer support features. Starting at $99 per month, it’s more expensive than other options but includes advanced scheduling features like Instagram Story scheduling. Users appreciate Sprout Social’s analytics and customer support, but note that it has a steeper learning curve than other platforms.
5. Planoly
Planoly is a visually-oriented Instagram scheduling tool, allowing you to plan your content by visually arranging your grid. Starting at $9 per month, Planoly offers a wide range of features including analytics, hashtag and caption suggestions, and the ability to repost user-generated content. Users appreciate Planoly’s simplicity and customer support.
The Ultimate Guide to Scheduling Posts on Instagram
If you’re looking to schedule posts directly within Instagram, it’s important to understand the features and best practices. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Create Your Post
Create your post as you normally would, including the photo or video, caption, and location tag.
Step 2: Select Advanced Settings
Before publishing your post, select “Advanced Settings” at the bottom of the screen.
Step 3: Select “Schedule”
In the Advanced Settings menu, select “Schedule” instead of “Post”.
Step 4: Choose Your Date and Time
Select the date and time you’d like your post to go live.
Step 5: Schedule Your Post
Hit “Schedule” to confirm and schedule your post.
Best practices for scheduling posts on Instagram include planning your content in advance, maintaining consistency in your aesthetic and messaging, and varying your content types (i.e. using a mix of photos, videos, and stories). It’s also important to engage with your audience even when you’re not actively posting – respond to comments, like and share others’ posts, and use relevant hashtags to attract new followers.
Why Scheduling Instagram Posts is Essential for Business Owners
For small business owners, scheduling Instagram posts is an essential part of a successful social media strategy. Here are just a few of the benefits:
Save Time
Scheduling posts means you can batch tasks and create content in advance, freeing up more time for other aspects of your business.
Consistency
Scheduling helps ensure a consistent aesthetic and messaging, which helps build brand recognition and loyalty.
Productivity
By planning and scheduling content in advance, you can be more efficient and productive, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your business.
Real-life examples of businesses seeing success with scheduling include @sugarfina, a luxury candy store that uses Instagram Stories to promote giveaways and behind-the-scenes peeks, and @glossier, a beauty brand that consistently delivers high-quality product shots and user-generated content. Both companies have a cohesive brand aesthetic and rely heavily on scheduling and planning their posts.
How to Use Instagram’s Built-in Scheduling Features
In addition to third-party scheduling tools, Instagram also offers its own scheduling features through Creator Studio and the Instagram app itself. Here’s how to use them:
Creator Studio
To schedule Instagram posts through Creator Studio, you’ll need to have a Facebook Page connected to your Instagram account. From there, you can create, schedule, and publish posts and view analytics all in one place.
Instagram App
The Instagram app allows you to schedule posts up to six months in advance, but only for a single account. To schedule from the app, navigate to “Post” and then select “Schedule”. Choose your date and time, and hit “Schedule”.
Which feature you use will depend on your needs and preferences. Creator Studio is a good choice if you’re already managing a Facebook Page, while the Instagram app is simple and easy to use.
Scheduling Posts on Instagram: Pros, Cons, and Best Practices
While there are many benefits to scheduling Instagram posts, there are also some potential downsides to be aware of. Here are some pros, cons, and best practices:
Pros:
- Saves time
- Ensures consistency
- Boosts productivity
- Can increase engagement and reach
Cons:
- Can lead to spammy behavior if overused
- May feel less authentic or spontaneous
- May miss real-time events or opportunities
To avoid spammy behavior, be sure to vary your content and messaging and engage with your audience even when you’re not actively posting. It’s also important to strike a balance between scheduling and spontaneity, and to remain flexible in response to real-time opportunities and events.
Conclusion
Scheduling Instagram posts is a valuable tool for small business owners and individuals alike. Whether you use a third-party tool or Instagram’s built-in features, scheduling your content can save time, ensure consistency, and boost productivity. Be sure to follow best practices and strike a balance between scheduling and spontaneity for the most success.