Strategy for Using Instagram Close Friends Feature as an Exclusive VIP List

Leverage Instagram’s Close Friends feature to create a sense of exclusivity and drive engagement, loyalty, and sales among your most engaged followers and potential buyers.

Step 1: Define the Purpose of Your VIP List

• Goals:

• Offer exclusive content, deals, or sneak peeks.

• Create a strong sense of community among your top followers.

• Increase sales or engagement with limited-time offers or early access.

• Examples of Exclusive Content:

• Early access to sales or products.

• Exclusive tips, hacks, or behind-the-scenes content.

• Personalized Q&A sessions or tutorials.

• Limited-time offers or special discounts.

• Invitations to private webinars or events.

Step 2: Build Your VIP List

1. Promote the Close Friends List:

• Use public Stories or posts to announce the creation of your VIP Close Friends list.

• Example Caption: “Want exclusive deals, early access to my best content, and behind-the-scenes peeks? DM me ‘VIP’ to join my Close Friends list!”

2. Select Your Members Thoughtfully:

• Include:

• Your most engaged followers (e.g., frequent likers/commenters).

• Potential customers who’ve shown interest in your products or services.

• Loyal buyers or community members who’ve supported you consistently.

3. Set Entry Criteria (Optional):

• Require followers to engage in specific actions to be added:

• Commenting on a post.

• Joining a waitlist or filling out a form.

• Making a purchase.

Step 3: Offer Exclusive, High-Value Content

1. Plan Your Content Calendar:

• Share at least 3-5 pieces of exclusive content weekly to keep members engaged.

2. Content Ideas for Close Friends:

• Special Discounts: “Only for my Close Friends – enjoy 20% off today only! DM me for your code.”

• Behind-the-Scenes: Sneak peeks of upcoming products or services.

• Exclusive Tutorials: Step-by-step guides or insights only shared with your VIPs.

• Pre-Launch Access: Offer early access to products or events.

• Personal Notes: Share more personal, heartfelt messages to foster connection.

3. Engagement Drivers:

• Use polls, questions, or quizzes to create two-way communication.

• Example: “Should this be the next product I launch? Vote now!”

• Example: “What’s your biggest struggle with [your niche]? Drop it below, and I’ll answer!”

Step 4: Drive Sales Through Close Friends

1. Create Urgency and FOMO:

• Use time-limited offers exclusively for Close Friends.

• Example: “VIPs only: Get FREE shipping for the next 24 hours. DM me for the link!”

2. Bundle Offers:

• Offer exclusive bundles or upsells that aren’t available publicly.

• Example: “VIP Bundle: Get all 3 products for the price of 2! DM me to grab it.”

3. Highlight Close Friends Exclusivity:

• Use language like:

• “This offer is only for my Close Friends.”

• “I’m so glad you’re part of my VIP crew – here’s something just for you.”

Step 5: Maintain and Grow Your VIP List

1. Create Value Regularly:

• Share exclusive content consistently to retain members and maintain excitement.

2. Recognize VIP Members:

• Mention their feedback or celebrate milestones (e.g., “Shoutout to [Name] for being an amazing part of this community!”).

3. Rotate Members If Needed:

• If you want to keep the list exclusive, periodically review and update the Close Friends list based on engagement or participation.

4. Continue Promoting It:

• Regularly remind your audience about the benefits of joining the Close Friends list and how to get on it.

Step 6: Measure Success

1. Track Engagement:

• Monitor views, replies, and interactions on your Close Friends Stories.

• Use this data to refine your content strategy.

2. Evaluate ROI:

• Track sales or leads generated from your Close Friends list.

• Use promo codes or specific DM links to measure conversions.

3. Gather Feedback:

• Ask your Close Friends what they love and want more of via polls or direct DMs.

Pro Tip: Use Personalization to Build Loyalty

• Occasionally send DMs to your Close Friends thanking them for being part of your VIP list or asking for their input on new ideas. This creates a deeper sense of connection and loyalty.

By executing this strategy, you can turn Instagram’s Close Friends feature into a powerful tool for building exclusivity, trust, and meaningful revenue.

Comment below with your thoughts and ideas.... I look forward to collaborating with each of you!

14 comments