Instagram is becoming more and more of an e-commerce and online marketing dream child. Used correctly, the photo app has great potential for online retailers to win new customers and increase sales. Trustedshops lists five reasons why Instagram needs to be scrutinized more closely.1. the buy now button
The "Buy Now" button makes it possible to place a sales link under the post, enabling Instagram followers to buy the product directly from the app. This can be very lucrative for store operators, especially in the fashion and lifestyle sector. Especially with the new function that makes it possible to publish up to 10 images with one carousel post. 2. instagram stories
Most customers don't buy something on their first visit to the store. During this time, it is essential to be active on social media. Especially on Instagram, as you can offer a good insight into the store and the products there. A trusting relationship with customers is built with a story. The Instagram feature makes this possible. As with Snapchat, special and not-so-special moments can be shared. For example, by giving a look behind the scenes or answering customers' questions and making exclusive offers. The great thing about Instagram Stories is that they don't have to be perfect. The imperfect is particularly popular with the younger target group and lends authenticity.3. linksOne advantage over Snapchat is that the stories can be linked. This allows Instagram to link directly to the product. This allows store operators to present their new products and guide customers directly to them. It is also possible to tag other Instagram users.4. influencer marketing
The main reason why influencer marketing is so popular is that the ROI (return on investment) can be astronomical. Reaching thousands of people in one fell swoop who have the potential to become new customers is the best thing about this marketing strategy. It is important to find the right influencer. Because if the influencer fits the brand, there is a very high probability that the respective followers will also fit. The measurability of this marketing tactic via Instagram is particularly interesting. If the influencer has a personal link that is used during the promotion, you can see exactly how many people have reacted to it and bought something.5. visual minimalismInstagram is designed for smartphones and takes up 100% of the user's attention as soon as the app is opened. In the app's newsfeed, the focus is on the visuals; the text under the images is cut off after 87 characters with "more". This minimalist design means that the user is much less distracted than on a desktop PC, where several tabs are open at the same time and clamor for attention. This is both a challenge and an opportunity. Instead of posting simple product images and hoping for conversions, retailers should show the products in action, how customers use and wear them or how the product can improve the customer's life.
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