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Find Your Readers on Instagram

Find Your Readers on Instagram | Attract and Engage Your Readers

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Instagram offers you incredible potential as a nonfiction author, but starting out can feel daunting. Here are a few key takeaways and a step-by-step guide to help you find your readers on Instagram to connect and engage with them in a manageable and effective way.

 

Key Takeaways to Help You Find Your Readers on Instagram:

  • Start Simple: Set up a business or creator account and establish a basic content strategy.
  • Engage Consistently: Build momentum by starting small—three posts a week is enough to begin.
  • Connect Personally: Respond to comments, use direct messages thoughtfully, and join the author community.
  • Leverage Features Gradually: Incorporate stories and reels for expanded reach over time.
  • Collaborate and Track: Partner with other authors, and measure your success with engagement metrics.

How To Build Your Instagram Presence as a Nonfiction Author:

1. Creating Your Instagram Profile: Setting Up to Reach Your Ideal Reader

If you’re not on Instagram yet, start by setting up a business or creator profile. A business profile is ideal if you’re looking to sell a book and access analytics, while a creator profile may suit authors with larger followings or those looking to add subscriptions.

2. Crafting a Simple Content Strategy for Engagement and Growth

 You need to start by observing successful authors in your genre. Look at the types of content they post, and then build a simple content calendar for yourself. This might mean sharing:

  • A motivational quote on Mondays.
  • A snippet or review of your book on Wednesdays.
  • A personal photo on Fridays.

This straightforward approach can take as little as 30 minutes weekly, keeping it manageable as you grow.

"Start somewhere where you feel you can succeed and grow from there."

3. Simple Steps to Build Momentum and Keep Readers Interested

  • Post consistently, even if it’s only three times a week at first. Pay attention to what others are sharing and keep refining your content to build a following.

4. Engage Through Comments and Hashtags

  • Like and comment on posts from other authors and readers in your niche. Engagement is key here—share your thoughts on posts and leave meaningful comments to foster a sense of community.

5. Utilise Hashtags:

  • Pick three to five relevant hashtags to start, such as #ParentingAdvice (or whatever your book is about), and use these regularly. Hashtags help new readers find you and connect you with the broader nonfiction author community. So instead of you looking for readers on Instagram, let them find you.

6. Using Instagram Stories and Reels: Expand Your Reach and Engage Your Followers

  • Stories and reels are powerful tools that can help you connect with followers and attract new ones. Start small by sharing stories that build loyalty, like behind-the-scenes glimpses or event announcements. Use reels when you’re ready to reach a wider audience since they have the potential to attract new followers. community.

7. Collaborate with Other Authors

  • Once you’ve established a small following, look for authors with similar audiences. Collaborations can be as simple as sharing each other’s posts or going live together to discuss shared topics. Over time, consider reaching out to influencers or thought leaders to expand your reach even further.

8. Send Thoughtful DMs: Building One-on-One Connections with Readers

  • Personalize your direct messages when new followers join or engage with your content. This can be as simple as thanking them for following and asking what topics they’re interested in. Avoid being overly sales-focused in DMs; focus on building connections instead.

9. Host Giveaways and Contests

  • Contests can boost engagement and attract new followers. Consider giving away a free copy of your book or another incentive, inviting users to like, comment, or tag friends.

10. Track and Adjust Your Strategy

  • Measure your progress monthly by tracking metrics like new followers, comments, and shares. Engagement is often more valuable than follower counts alone. For example, if reels are bringing in more followers, keep experimenting with them. Use these insights to adjust your strategy, doubling down on what works.

You can find your readers on Instagram, and it doesn’t have to be overwhelming if you start with manageable steps. Build your momentum gradually, and don’t be discouraged by slow growth at first. With consistent, thoughtful engagement, you’ll cultivate a following that’s genuinely interested in your work and message.

By following the above steps, you’ll find your readers on Instagram and create a platform that connects with and engages your ideal audience.

Three Things You Can Do Right Now To Find Your Readers on Instagram:

  • Set Up Your Instagram Profile: If you haven’t already, switch to a business or creator profile to access analytics and additional features tailored for promoting your book.
  • Create a Simple Content Calendar: Plan three posts per week—for example, a motivational quote on Monday, a review snippet on Wednesday, and a personal photo on Friday. This provides a foundation without needing a large time commitment.
  • Engage with 5 Accounts in Your Genre: Take a few minutes to like and comment on posts from other authors or genre-related content, starting to build relationships and awareness in your niche.

Related Blog Posts to Help You Find Your Readers on Instagram

How Will Implementing These Ideas Help You Find Your Readers on Instagram?

Implementing these ideas will help you in your journey by providing a structured, momentum-building approach to using Instagram for promotion. Rather than diving into overwhelming strategies, start small, to foster consistency and prevent burnout. The gradual approach also helps build genuine connections and will help you reach a more targeted audience.

Keep writing and keep thriving!

Melody Ann

Author Nation is your go-to resource for becoming a successful nonfiction author, from planning to promotion and everything in between. 
Disclaimer: This blog may contain affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, we will earn a small commission. Please understand that we have experience with these products, and we recommend them because they are helpful and useful, not because of the small commissions we make.

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