Day 6 – Social Media Management
Topic: Different Content Formats for Instagram
Instagram works as a content ecosystem. Each format serves a different purpose in growth, engagement, and sales.
1. Instagram Stories (Connection and Conversion)
Stories help maintain daily presence and build relationships.
How to sell on stories using the 4Ps rule:
- Problem – Highlight a pain point your audience relates to
- Promise – Show the result or transformation
- Proof – Testimonials, results, screenshots, case studies
- Pitch – Clear call to action (DM, link, reply, book a call)
Stories convert better when they feel natural and relatable.
2. Reels (Reach and Growth)
Reels are the primary tool for account growth.
A strong example is PinkSparrow, who grew her account by educating people specifically about reels rather than following random trends.
- Short and focused content
- One problem, one solution
- Educational reels build authority and get more saves and shares
Consistency matters more than going viral.
3. Carousel Posts (Depth and Engagement)
Carousels are ideal for educational and value-based content.
Use the AIDA framework:
- Attention – A strong hook on the first slide
- Interest – Address a relatable problem
- Desire – Provide value, tips, or transformation
- Action – Ask viewers to save, share, comment, or DM
Carousels help audiences slow down and engage deeply.
4. Instagram Feed (Brand Identity)
Your feed represents your visual brand.
- Choose one colour or theme
- Create content around that theme
- Maintain consistency for a clean and professional look
A well-structured feed builds instant trust.
5. Highlights (Evergreen Content)
Highlights store important information for new visitors.
They can be used for:
- Services
- Testimonials
- FAQs
- About or Start Here
Highlights guide profile visitors effectively.
6. Instagram Live (Trust and Authority)
Lives help in:
- Building credibility
- Showing expertise in real time
- Answering audience questions
- Strengthening personal branding
People trust and buy from those they see and hear.
Key Takeaway
Each Instagram format has a specific role:
- Stories for connection and sales
- Reels for growth
- Carousels for education
- Feed for branding
- Highlights for guidance
- Live for trust
Use each format intentionally rather than randomly.