How do you do SEO for Instagram?

SEO isn't just for websites: you can also optimize your Instagram profile to improve organic visibility and increase engagement.

But how do you perform SEO on Instagram?

In this article, we’ll explore strategies, tips, and the advantages for SMEs, professionals, and brands that want to make the most of this platform.

Why SEO on Instagram?

Instagram is much more than just a social platform: its algorithms function like an internal search engine, favoring optimized profiles and content. Doing SEO on Instagram means boosting:

• Visibility: Positioning your profile and content among the top results in searches and feeds.
• Engagement: Attracting the right audience and stimulating authentic interactions.
• Conversions: Turning followers into customers with a polished and strategic profile.

In short, SEO on Instagram is a valuable asset for building an active community and promoting your brand professionally.

The Basics of Instagram SEO: 3 Fundamental Steps

Optimizing your Instagram profile requires a strategic and structured approach.

The following three steps are the foundation of an effective SEO strategy, from the initial profile setup to attention to detail in your content. Follow them to boost visibility and performance.

1. Username and Bio

Instagram SEO begins at the profile creation stage. Your username and bio are the primary elements for positioning yourself within the platform’s search engine.

• Username: Choose a clear, recognizable name that aligns with your brand. Including your main keyword is essential: for example, for a bakery in London, a name like “SweetsLondon” is effective.
• Bio: Use the available space to describe your business concisely and attractively. Include related keywords and a CTA (call to action) encouraging visitors to take action, such as visiting your website or sending you a direct message.

Pro Tip: Avoid symbols or special characters that make your profile hard to find. Keep it simple and direct!

2. Captions and Hashtags

Captions and hashtags are the heartbeat of your Instagram SEO strategy.

Here’s how to make the most of them:

• Captions: Write engaging and natural text that includes relevant keywords for your niche. Instagram’s algorithm scans captions, so they should be well-optimized without sounding forced.
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  • Start with a catchy opening to immediately grab attention.
  • End with a clear CTA, such as “Learn more” or “Leave a comment.”
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• Hashtags: Select hashtags that are relevant to your content and niche. Avoid overly generic ones (e.g., “#love” or “#photo”) and prefer specific, less competitive options. For example, use “#ArtisanBakeryLondon” instead of the generic “#Dessert.”
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  • Combine branded hashtags (e.g., #SweetsLondon) and niche ones to increase visibility and strengthen your brand identity.
  • Change up your hashtags for each post to avoid being flagged as spam by the algorithm.

Pro Tip: Don’t use more than 20 hashtags per post and leverage analytics tools to identify the most effective ones.

3. Geolocation and Alt Text

Instagram is a powerful tool for Local SEO.

If your business is tied to a specific geographical area, these two practices are essential:

• Geolocation: Add your location tag to posts and Stories. This increases the likelihood of your content being discovered by users in your area.
• Alt Text: The alternative text is a feature available in Instagram’s advanced settings. Use this space to accurately describe the content of your images, including strategic keywords. This not only enhances SEO but also makes your content accessible to visually impaired users.

Pro Tip: Incorporate geolocation into your hashtags as well, such as “#EventsLondon” or “#FashionLondon,” to reach a local audience.

Conclusion

Doing SEO on Instagram requires care and strategy, but the results can be extraordinary.‍

Optimizing your profile not only enhances visibility but also fosters authentic connections with your audience and increases your market impact.

If you want to dive deeper into upgrading your Instagram strategy, continue following our magazine for more practical guides and tips from RichClicks.