I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again…

The best way to grow your business on Instagram isn’t to focus on (often fabricated) vanity metrics.

It’s to focus on connecting with your audience.

Otherwise, you'll be left with a bunch of followers who don't actually care about your business. Sure, maybe you'll look really successful, but you won't be making many sales.

Sounds straightforward, right?

But SO MANY social media marketing accounts are sharing inaccurate information about how to make money on Instagram.

I came across an account just like this the other day. Here's a screenshot of one of her reels, with a click bait hook about a “quick hack” to grow your reach.

I looked at her reels and found…completely average reach. (Not a single reel had reach of over 5k views.) She was selling a lie. A big one. This is why entrepreneurs like you battle with vanity metrics, when all you're trying to do is find your ideal clients and sell your products and services.

As an Instagram strategist who wakes up every morning ecstatic about creating connection-based content that actually sells, it broke my heart to see.

And when I commented on the reel pointing out the issue? She blocked me.

That doesn't exactly breed trust in what she's selling, does it?

If you're reading this thinking, “I too have felt personally victimized by Regina George” (otherwise known as scammy social media coaches), here's what to do instead:

Step 1: Unfollow everyone who is telling you to “do this one thing to explode your reach”.

Step 2: Get really clear on your ideal client. What are they struggling with? What does that look like in their life? What do they really want? What's holding them back? What are they scared of? What do they believe that isn't true?

Step 3: Get really clear on your offers. Who is each one for? What problem does it solve? How does it solve it? What will life look life after this solution?

Step 4: Develop your Instagram strategy. It's not about only posting 5 second reels or relying on ad spends. It's about real connections with real people. Read this email for help getting started!

Step 5: Take your time. Instagram is a long game. I guarantee you that gaining 1000 followers in 1 week won't make you money. But gaining a few ideal followers and developing relationships with them will.

Successful social media marketing is rooted in connection. If you don't connect with your audience, they won't pay you. Period.

I'd love to know - what's the WORST Instagram advice you've been given? Hit reply and tell me all about it.

See ya on the 'gram!

Sarah

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