Instagram Live isn’t a new feature of Instagram. It actually came to the scene in 2016. But because of the increased demand for it in 2020, Instagram Live may need a quick refresher among its users. Not to be confused with Instagram Stories or Instagram TV, Instagram Live is entirely its own thing. It is a live streaming feature on Instagram that allows users to stream themselves unedited and in real-time. And with every live program, audiences or, in this case, followers can tune in. They can even comment and react directly, and share during the Live.
And if the potential engagement alone isn’t enough to incorporate Instagram Live into your brand’s overall marketing strategy, here are our reasons that are sure to convince you.
Increases Discoverability
Not only does Instagram Live give your followers face time with you, but it also notifies them whenever you’re Live on Instagram. For example, followers get a notification that reads, “@_____ started a Live video. Watch it before it ends!” In addition to the automatic Live notifications, your Instagram Live sessions move to the beginning of the Stories feed, which increases the likelihood of followers seeing your live stream and tuning in.
Live serves as a reminder to those followers that may have forgotten or lost touch with you underneath all the other content that exists! Knowing that your business exists is *cough* pretty important, especially now.
Connects You and Your Followers
During this time, it's crucial to maintain and build strong relationships with your following. That support is vital to your growth. Instagram Live is a raw, unedited area of Instagram that you don’t typically see on Stories or in feed posts. It’s a way for your followers to see your authentic self.
Live opens up a dialogue between you and your followers they otherwise wouldn’t have. Viewers can react and ask questions that you can answer directly in the Live. Open conversation provides a better sense of community and builds a natural rapport with your audience.
Anything that feels real is considered more trustworthy to today’s consumers, and showing your followers who you are or what your business stands for can be illuminating because it shows them the real person or people behind the brand. This increased connection ups the likelihood that your followers will talk about you on social media, potentially growing your audience.
Broadens Your Audience
Instagram Live is a great opportunity to connect and partner with other brands and creators. Instagram Live allows you to add co-hosts to your live sessions. This is perfect for partnering with a brand or influencer that aligns with your business because there is a higher likelihood of converting one of their followers into one of yours. Use these Live Sessions with co-hosts for discussions and giveaways.