THINKING OUT LOUD #48: LET’S TALK INSTAGRAM
Switching things up this week, let’s dive into the world of Instagram. I don’t claim to be an expert nor am I aiming for a million followers. However, from my journey, I’ve gathered some insights on building a genuine and engaging Instagram presence, especially as an athlete living on a plant-based diet.
1. Quality Over Quantity: Clear, vibrant, and inspiring photos grab attention. Even if you’re not a professional photographer, smartphones today offer brilliant photo quality. So next time you share a pic of your post-run vegan smoothie, ensure it’s clear and enticing!
Some of my favorite accounts for visual inspiration:
- @heatherrosescott – Yoga poses I aspire to achieve.
- @fitandyy – Athletic wear to motivate your next workout.
- @wholelivinglauren – Plant-based meals that are visually tantalizing.
- @almondbuttersaurus – Fun and creative vegan recipes.
2. Embrace Hashtags: Hashtags are your best friends. They can categorize your posts and amplify their reach. For athletes, #runnersofinstagram, #instarun, and #runhappy are popular. If you’re showing off a vegan dish, consider tags like #veganathlete, #plantpowered, or #veganrunners.
3. Engage Genuinely: Like, comment, and engage with other Instagram users authentically. Emoji comments are fun, but meaningful interactions make a difference. A thoughtful comment not only builds relationships but also makes your presence more memorable.
4. Respond & Reciprocate: Engaging with those who interact with your posts builds loyalty. Sure, it’s time-consuming, but it’s akin to real-life relationships. Taking a moment to acknowledge someone’s comment goes a long way in building a bond with your audience.
5. Consistency & Variety: While it’s essential to maintain an active presence, balance is key. Share various aspects of your life – your training routines, mouthwatering vegan dishes, glimpses of your personal life, and more. A well-rounded profile lets followers connect with you on multiple levels.
In summary, my Instagram journey as an athlete on a plant-based diet has taught me the value of genuine engagement and quality content. While my perspective might differ from others, I believe in building authentic relationships on this platform.
Would love to hear your thoughts or any other tips you’ve found helpful. Let’s keep the conversation going in the comments!
Happy almost-weekend! 🌱🏃♂️🌟
