How many times have you given directions to someone by drawing them a map? It is a simple way to ease the understanding of the information you are giving. Visual branding is a great way to show people your company and its products.

And now with most people using mobile devices, getting your visual message out to current and potential customers is easier than ever. Instagram is the image and video sharing service that is creating the best network for starting your visual marketing. And with nearly 60 % of major brands using Instagram, so you are sure to be in the right crowd to get your brand out there.

Profile

Create a profile picture: Choose a photo that is highly used by you business. Whether it be your logo or another iconic image, prepare to use it with all your other social networks and advertisements. This helps followers gain recognition of not only your name but of your graphics as well.

Write an accurate bio: You have 200 characters to tell the world what you have to offer and why you are worth following. This is also a great place to encourage followers to share their own photos of your brand with a special hashtag. Since website links do not work in regular comments, think about putting your company’s URL into your profile. And because most Instagram users are on mobile devices, be sure to create or revamp so your site is mobile friendly.

Photos

Allow authentic images: The most interesting view for consumers is the one they can’t see on a regular basis. So create an insider perspective of your company through Instagram photos. Show how things are made, what makes your process special, or even just your employees enjoying themselves. It makes your brand seem more personable and shows that you have no secrets to hide. Posting photos from any major event also benefits your brand in showing that you are much more than a company, especially if you do events that assist your community or other organizations. A large trend is using the hashtag #ThrowbackThursday (or #tbt). So dig out some photos of your company starting up, whether it is from five years ago or one hundred, customers always want to see the story of your work and success.

Get creative: If you don’t have a large behind the scenes operation, you have to think a little more creatively about promoting your brand through imagery. Simple products don’t have to be boring, create unique backgrounds or humorous scenarios that your product can be used in. You can even use pop culture or trending ideas to attract a different crowd of consumers to your brand. One of the most effective ways to drive interaction is to spark emotion in viewers. With #quotes being one of the most frequently used hashtags, creating a graphic around a quote is a great way to stimulate emotion. Just make sure you choose quotes that accurately resonate within your audience.

Look for customers already using your product: If you sell it, people use it and who says you customers aren’t already taking pictures of it? Do a quick search of any hashtags that may relate to your product to see if someone is talking about it. If you do find images, the best thing to do is respond personally on the image. It helps to show that you are paying attention and gives the personal touch that leads people to become lifelong product users. As said before, if you create a specialized hashtag for you brand, it will become easier to find these images and connect with active customers. Another idea is to then take consumers photos and feature them on your profile. This allows people to feel appreciated for their photo and you can show others that you respect customers’ ideas and points of view.

So whether you are just starting on Instagram or trying to improve your current profile, hopefully these tips will help. The important thing to remember is to stay creative and consistent with your brand. There is no exact formula to getting the maximum number of followers or interaction. Be innovative and unique to create content that viewers like and react well to.