Ready to make your Instagram discoverable on Google?
In case you missed it, a pretty big Instagram update was officially released – your Instagram posts can now be visible in Google searches – provided your account is a public business profile.
As a Penrith digital marketing agency helping service-based businesses level up their social media game, we’re here to guide you on how to optimise your Instagram to take advantage of this exciting Google update.
In previous blogs, we’ve spoken about the importance of your hashtags, bios and captions being rich in key words… So if you’ve taken our lead on this already, you’re one step ahead of everyone else!
For those who haven’t followed our advice (it’s ok, we learn… hehe) we’re here to share how you can optimise your platform so you have a shot at showing up in Google search results.
First of all, why is this even news?
Google has started pulling public Instagram profiles and content into its search results. This means your Instagram can now do double duty – attracting both your social audience and potential customers who are just Googling for what you offer.
So, how can you make sure your Instagram is working for your SEO?
Here’s 5 easy ways to optimise your Instagram for Google Search:
1. Review your page name and username (aka your handle)
Your Instagram handle (@yourbusinessname) and profile name appear in search results. Make sure they clearly reflect your business and what you do.
For example: Instead of @sparklebeauty93, opt for @sparklebeautypenrith or @sparkleskinclinic – people know exactly what you do and offer just by looking at your handle, and are then more likely to click on your page and find out more.
2. Think of important keywords and make them work for you
Your bio is valuable SEO real estate, so be sure to include keywords that reflect your services and location.
For example: “Hair Stylist Penrith” or “NDIS Provider Western Sydney”.
3. Use relevant hashtags
Hashtags are far from dead. They’re still powerful for reach and discoverability. Do a quick hashtag audit to make sure your tags are relevant and active and be sure to not overuse them. There’s a fine line, so be strategic with what you do use across your posts.
Hive Tip: Click through the hashtags you’re using to see if they match the kind of content your dream clients are browsing.
4. Add Alt text to your posts
This is a pretty important one… Alt Text isn’t just for accessibility. It helps Google understand what your content is about. When uploading a post, add a clear, keyword-friendly description of the image. This can be done before you get your post live.
For example: If you’re a dog groomer, and are uploading a photo of a very happy fur-client, here’s a way you could describe the photo in the Alt Text section: “Dog grooming appointment – small cavoodle with bow tie after full wash and dry in Western Sydney salon.”
5. Stay consistent
Google loves consistency. Regularly post content that aligns with your niche, use the same tone and visuals, and keep your information up to date. While you’re at it, think about some of the common FAQs your customers have, and create content – a mix of reels, carousels and tiles – focused on answering these.
I mean, chances are if your customers are asking them to you, your future customers are asking them to Google.
Want to make sure you’re ticking all the boxes every time you post? Check out our handy guide that outlines what you need to do to increase visibility and ensure your Instagram content is Google-friendly (without losing your brand’s personality).
And if you’re still keen to find a way to make your Instagram work harder for you? Let’s chat about managing your Instagram like the pro brand you are.
