As a self-proclaimed social media data junkie, nothing gets me out of the bed in the morning quite like being able to prove my work. After all, I want to create posts that pack a punch and deliver real results for my clients.

So, how do I do that on Instagram? Engagement rate.

Engagement Rate is measured as the total number of content interactions (likes, comments, shares, saves, etc.) divided by the  total number of impressions. Because it is calculated using a percentile value for internal data, engagement rate is also one of the only, iif not the only way, to compare the success of different social media accounts. 

By adding engagement rate to your tool belt, you can now compare your small business to its industry leaders, and moreso, determine which posts are really clicking with your audience.

But what if you need to boost your engagement? That’s okay! There is always room to grow. Why not try out a new strategy! Here are my social media manager tested ways for boosting your Instagram engagement overnight.

Prioritize Community Management

Community management is the backbone to your brand’s digital persona.By actively managing and interacting with your audience, responding to comments and messages, and creating a positive and welcoming environment for the community, you can build brand loyalty, increase brand awareness, and ultimately drive engagement. In fact, it is proven that users are more likely to engage with content, if they feel a sense of belonging and connection to the brand.

Be Creative With Your Call-To-Action

A call-to-action (CTA) is a statement designed to get an immediate, measurable response from your audience. In short, it gives your brand the power to influence your audience’s next action after interacting with your post on social media. Here are a few of my favorites:

• Save this post for later 

• Head to our Stories to learn more 

• Double-tap if you agree

• Tag a friend in the comments to share the news

• Debate in the comments

Buy Into The Hype of Short-Form Video

Chances are you’re probably tired of hearing me talk about short-form video content. But when users find it 66% more engaging than any other form of content, I have to shout it from the rooftops! Next time you’re in an engagement rut, tap into Instagram’s unique features, such as Reels, IGTV, and Stories, to freshen up your strategy. 

Collaborate, Collaborate, Collaborate

Is there an account you envy for their engagement? Maybe an account with more followers is tapping into your exact target audience. Try collaborating through a giveaway, paid promotion, or even a product release! Working together can help you reach a wider and potentially new audience, while also garnering the users’ trust. 

One of our favorite tips? Use the new-ish “Collab” feature on Instagram to create a post that shows up in the Feeds of both of your followers (a.k.a. a chance to garner higher engagement!)