Social Media
Instagram’s Rise and What It Means for Brands
In a remarkably short time, Instagram has grown from a simple photo app into a place where culture happens. Its acquisition has only accelerated that rise. For brands that understand visual storytelling, it is one of the most promising channels to appear in years.
Why Instagram is different
Instagram is built for images and emotion, not links and text. It rewards aesthetics, authenticity, and a consistent visual voice. Brands that try to bolt on the same promotional posts they run elsewhere tend to fall flat.
How brands can show up well
- Develop a consistent visual style that is recognizably yours.
- Show people, process, and personality, not just products.
- Use hashtags thoughtfully to reach interested communities.
- Engage genuinely rather than broadcasting.
Key takeaways
- ✓Instagram rewards visual storytelling over promotion.
- ✓A consistent, authentic style builds recognition.
- ✓Engagement matters more than follower counts alone.
Valter Brandt
Chief Marketing Officer
Valter Brandt is the Chief Marketing Officer of ThisCom, working with clients across the United States and Europe. He has led marketing strategy through the major shifts in social advertising, mobile, content marketing, programmatic media, and marketing automation.
Frequently asked questions
Does my business need to be on Instagram?+
It depends on whether your audience is there and whether your business lends itself to visuals. Restaurants, retail, travel, and lifestyle brands often thrive, but any business with a visual story can find a place.
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