Although Instagram is notoriously picky when it comes to the accounts they choose to verify, there are a few things you can do to better your chances.
Sure, there’s no sure-fire way to get verified on Instagram, but there are certainly a few best practices that will inch you closer towards Instagram verification.
Increase Your Following - This might seem like an oversimplification but increasing your following will 1000% help your chances of getting verified. More followers mean your account has a higher stature and increases the odds of Instagram recognizing you as a public figure. So use all the tools and tricks at your disposal to increase your follower account before you apply for verification.
Hire a Publicist and/or an Agency - If you are on the brink of a social media breakout, and have the means to do so, hiring a publicist or an agency to back your claim for Instagram verification is a great option. Your representation should have access to Facebook’s Media Partner Support tools. With access, your rep can request verification through an industry-only channel.
Stay Active - An active and engaged account has a much better chance of verification that even a popular account that lacks activity. As we know, Instagram places a large emphasis on posting and posting often. You can also help your chances by using Reels, going Live, leveraging Guides, and creating great IGTV content.
Monitor Imposter Accounts - Did you ever think a humble brag might help you get verified? It might! Imposter accounts on Instagram indicate to the platform that you are, well, a big deal. But don’t just take our word for it, Instagram has implied the same: “accounts representing well-known figures and brands are verified because they have a high likelihood of being impersonated.”
Build Your Other Social Profiles - An unsung hero to your cause for verification is building your following across all social media platforms. Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Pinterest followings all play a role in the Instagram verification process. Creating great content across all platforms raises your profile.
Strike While the Iron is Hot - When you apply for verification, it won’t hurt if your name is in the news. Maybe you just had an influencer partnership picked up by a publication. Or your restaurant just got a glowing review in a major publication. Those are both ideal times to apply for that blue check. So if you’re in the news or have been newsworthy in the not so distant past, verification could be in your future.
Make no mistake about it, Instagram verification can be valuable beyond measure. It is proven to boost your engagement levels, conversion rates, and partnership opportunities.
Verification makes you a trusted source on Instagram. So why not give it a shot and apply? Follow the steps above and cross your fingers and toes for good luck.