Yes, you read that right: from now on your Instagram posts, Reels and videos can be found via GoogleNot just on Instagram itself, but right in the search results of the world's largest search engine.
This update applies to all professional accounts (Business of Creator) who are over 18 years old and have created their profile on public have standing.
We certainly don't see this as a threat to your website or other channels, but it does make your multichannel strategy even stronger!
Curious? Read more below!
What exactly is new?
Imagine: you are looking for a good coffee shop in Utrecht and you type that into Google.
And suddenly you see an Instagram post with a beautiful interior, delicious latte art and a location tag.
That post comes from a place you didn't know about, but you want to go to right away.
That's exactly what this update makes possible.
Instagram and Google are working together. Instagram now lets Google index your content. Your content (post, Reel, or carousel) can now appear in Google Search. This means even more visibility, even without anyone already following you.
This is an opportunity to:
- Reach more people
- Get more traffic to your content
- To be found sooner on search terms
What do you need to set?
You don't have to be a techie to participate. With a few simple steps, you can make your content searchable. Make sure your profile is set up correctly, otherwise it won't work:
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Go to Settings > Account > Account type and tools
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Choose a Business of Creator account
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Go to Privacy > Profile visibility
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Zet Allow content to appear in search engines outside of Instagram on
What can you do today?
- Use keywords in your captions: product names, locations, problem solutions: incorporate them naturally
- Write alt texts as if they were mini SEO blurbs: e.g. “Relaxing planner for busy moms, minimalist design with a handy layout”
- Show keywords in videos or Reels too: use text on images that match search queries
- Use relevant hashtags: an opportunity for niche and product-oriented hashtags
- Optimize your profile bio: clearly what you do, for whom, where and why
What will you score with immediately?
People love learning, tips, and clear explanations. You can see that on Google and Instagram.
If you're already sharing how-tos, tutorials, or customer stories, you're doing well. Google and your target audience will find it interesting.
- How-tos, for example: “How to style this blouse in 5 ways”
- Tutorials for example: “how to use this tool in 3 steps”
- Mini guides: “These are the hotspots you can't miss in Rome”
- Customer stories: “How we helped our clients grow in 2 months”
How do you ensure your Instagram profile is ready?
- Add your location, expertise and target audience
- Ensure a recognizable tone of voice, such as on your website
Closing note
Social content as your secret weapon for search traffic.
Instagram suddenly becomes an additional SEO channel. And that fits perfectly within a smart multichannel strategy.
You don't have to choose between social media or search engines, now you can have both.
So: optimize smart, share value and turn your Instagram profile into a discoverable content machine.