This week witnessed a collective hysteria from so many small business owners over at Instagram. In 24 hours, almost every account on my feed begged me to turn on post notifications, afraid that when the new algorithm rolls out, no one will see their posts anymore. After the 100th or so image of the same message, I almost wanted to delete the app from my phone. Instead, I took a break from Instagram for a day or two, and came back to it only when a semblance of calm was already present. I didn’t want to add to the noise.
I totally understand the panic. But I think people are forgetting what Instagram is all about – connecting with the people and brands that you like. It’s a community that you build yourself from the accounts that you follow, comment on, and respond to, as well as those who follow you, like your posts, and comment on them. If you are already an active member of this community, you have nothing to worry about. You will still see the same accounts on your feed, and people will still see your posts. Give as much as you take, or even more, and your community will grow.
It’s all about cultivating community. Stay authentic, reach out, and grow your community organically.
