How to Get More Followers on Instagram: 6 Proven Growth Tips

Are you still fixated on the number of likes you get? Yeah, we get it—likes boost your ego, we understand that. But likes aren’t everything. What you definitely shouldn’t overlook are your followers. They’re your community—the people who want to follow what you do and who you are online. And having more followers on Instagram also means that potentially more people will see your posts, which translates to greater reach. We have 6 tips for you on how to increase your Instagram followers.

6 Effective Ways to Increase Instagram Followers Organically

1. Build a strong personal brand

Would you walk into a store if you had no idea what it sold? Probably not. The same principle applies to your Instagram account. Clearly show what you stand for and what you have to offer. Whether your focus is on sustainable farming, your life as a backpacker, or your favorite sport, clear positioning is key to turning visitors to your account into followers. But be careful: this doesn’t mean all your content has to be exactly the same (and monotonous).

2. Create a Consistent Feed

Think of your Instagram page as a resume, portfolio, and website all in one. And while it doesn’t have to be perfect, first impressions still matter. You have just a few seconds to introduce yourself to new visitors and convey your brand’s personality. In that short time, a visually appealing Instagram feed can make the difference between gaining a new follower or someone simply leaving your page. This strongly impacts your ability to grow Instagram followers organically.

3. Optimize your Instagram bio

We’ve mentioned this elsewhere, but we’re bringing it up again because it’s so important. Your Instagram bio is often the first point of contact for new visitors. That makes it the perfect opportunity to communicate right from the start who you are and what you offer. You only have a few characters. So make sure your bio is short and informative and includes relevant keywords to make your account easier to find.

4. Find the best hashtags for your followers

Instagram hashtags remain one of the best tools for growth and Instagram follower growth. By using relevant and targeted hashtags in your posts, you can reach new potential followers and get more Instagram followers organically.

5. Post regularly and strategically

When it comes to growing on Instagram, consistency is key. The more consistent your posts are, the better your audience gets to know you—which in turn builds trust. 

6. Optimize Your Instagram Story Highlights

Stories usually disappear after 24 hours. However, you can keep them alive by saving them to your Instagram Story Highlights. By creating high-quality Highlights, you can showcase your best and most interesting Stories to new visitors—and, ideally, better present your brand and gain new followers.

FAQs on the topic: Getting More Followers on Instagram

Why are followers more important than likes?

Followers make up your community and help you reach a wider audience. Likes are nice, but without followers, fewer and fewer people will see your content over time.

What is a “personal brand” and why do I need one on Instagram?

A personal brand is your personal brand—it shows what you stand for and makes you recognizable. It helps turn visitors into loyal followers.

How important is a consistent Instagram feed?

Very important! A consistent feed conveys professionalism and attracts new visitors. The first impression often determines whether someone follows you or keeps scrolling.

What should a good Instagram bio include?

Your bio should clearly and concisely explain who you are, what you offer, and include relevant keywords to help people find you and get more Instagram followers.

How do I find the right hashtags for my content?

Research hashtags that appeal to your niche and target audience. Tools like hashtag generators or analyzing successful accounts can help.

Do I have to post every day to grow?

No, consistency is more important than quantity. It’s better to post less frequently but consistently, with high-quality content if you want to grow Instagram followers organically.

Why are Instagram Reels so effective?

Reels are prioritized on the Explore page, reaching people who don’t follow you yet—ideal for gaining new followers and boosting Instagram follower growth.