How to use Instagram for event marketing

In today's digital age, social media platforms have become an integral part of marketing strategies, especially when it comes to promoting events. Instagram, with over 1 billion monthly active users, provides an excellent opportunity to reach a large audience and engage with potential attendees. In this article, we'll discuss how to use Instagram for event marketing and provide expert opinions and industry statistics to help you create an effective strategy.

Setting up an Instagram Account for Event Marketing

The first step to using Instagram for event marketing is to create an Instagram account specifically for your event. This account should be separate from your personal or business account. Use a username that is easily recognizable and reflects the name of the event. Make sure to include a profile photo and a bio that clearly states what the event is about and when and where it will take place. You can also include a link to your event website or ticket sales page in your bio.

Expert opinion: "Make sure your Instagram account is visually appealing and on-brand with your event. Use high-quality images and videos to showcase what attendees can expect from your event." - Samantha Matthews, Digital Marketing Manager at Eventbrite.

Building a Following on Instagram

Once you've set up your Instagram account, the next step is to build a following. Start by following other accounts related to your event, such as influencers, sponsors, and industry leaders. Engage with their posts by liking and commenting, and consider collaborating with them to reach a larger audience.

You can also use Instagram's hashtags to reach a wider audience. Use relevant hashtags related to your event, such as #eventmarketing or #eventplanning. You can also create a custom hashtag for your event, such as #MyEvent2023, and encourage attendees to use it when posting about your event.

Expert opinion: "Engage with your followers and other accounts related to your event. This will help build relationships and increase your reach on Instagram." - Kelly Green, Marketing Director at Cvent.

Creating Engaging Content for Instagram

Creating engaging content is key to promoting your event on Instagram. You can use a variety of content types, including images, videos, and Instagram Stories. Use high-quality visuals that showcase the venue, speakers, and activities that attendees can expect at your event.

You can also use Instagram's features, such as Reels and IGTV, to create longer-form video content. Consider partnering with influencers or industry experts to create content that promotes your event and provides value to your audience.

Expert opinion: "Make sure your content is visually engaging and provides value to your audience. Use Instagram's features, such as Reels and IGTV, to create more dynamic content that stands out." - Samantha Matthews, Digital Marketing Manager at Eventbrite.

Using Instagram Ads to Promote Your Event

Instagram Ads can be a powerful tool for promoting your event to a wider audience. You can use Instagram's targeting options to reach people based on their interests, behaviors, and location. You can also create different types of ads, such as photo ads, video ads, and carousel ads, to showcase different aspects of your event.

When creating Instagram Ads, make sure to use compelling visuals and copy that encourage people to take action, such as registering for your event or visiting your event website.

Expert opinion: "Instagram Ads can be an effective way to reach a wider audience and drive ticket sales. Use compelling visuals and copy to encourage people to take action." - Kelly Green, Marketing Director at Cvent.

Industry Statistics:

According to a survey by Eventbrite, 90% of event creators use social media to promote their events.

Instagram has over 1 billion monthly active users, with 500 million using Instagram Stories every day.