Instagram is a big platform with 2 billion people using it every month. Instagram offers businesses a chance to find new customers. However, some businesses find it hard to use Instagram to find new leads.

Instagram is all about real connections and community. Instead of just selling things, it is about making real friendships between creators and followers. This makes it easier to show products and services in a genuine way.

At the heart of Instagram’s lead-generation power lies its algorithm. The Instagram algorithm likes content that is focused on one topic and speaks to a specific group of people. If you understand and work with this algorithm, you can get more people to see and engage with your posts without having to rely only on ads.

So, how can businesses make the most of Instagram for lead generation? Social media expert Michelle Gifford has some insights:

Understanding the Algorithm

Instagram’s algorithm rewards content that is tailored to specific audiences. By focusing on a specific niche and delivering content that aligns with audience interests, businesses can increase visibility and engagement.

Crafting a Content Funnel

Businesses should guide followers through a strategic content funnel. They start by attracting new followers with compelling, shareable content—like trendy Reels or content on the Explore page. Then, they nurture existing followers with value-driven content that builds trust and relationships.

Finally, businesses transition to direct promotion of products and services to warm leads ready to convert. Longer-form content like Stories enables businesses to showcase offerings and drive conversions among their most engaged followers.

Businesses can make the most out of Instagram for generating leads by matching their content with each step of the customer journey.