3 Things You Can Do If Instagram Updates are Driving You Crazy

We've all had these feelings about Instagram over the past several months. We've all been wondering, "why is Instagram updating? Why is Instagram making these updates?"

Instagram's new updates in 2022 have left some of us... Reeling. (sorry, couldn't help it.)

There is a lot more emphasis put on video to try to keep up with the popularity of TikTok and to meet the demand of growing interest in video and video-editing.

From multiple feeds to Notes, all of these Instagram updates are a little bit overwhelming and while some are helpful, even we are scratching our heads at Notes (while having fond memories of MSN Messenger).

It's easy to feel frustrated with the social media platform and wonder why you even bother, wishing things would go back to the way they were.

We don't claim to know Instagram's plans for the future, but we DO know 3 things you can do in the mean time.

(We've noticed these same frustrations with Facebook, especially with Business Page updates, so these can be applied to Facebook as well.)

So instead of sitting there in dread, wondering, "when will Instagram update again?" just follow these three steps.

1. Use Instagram Reels

We know this is not ideal for many of you, but video is here to stay.

If you've noticed a drop in your organic reach and your engagement, Reels are the best place to start on the Instagram app.

Reels are pushed beyond your followers, whether you use hashtags or not (although we do recommend you use relevant hashtags).

Our Reels get about double the reach that our regular posts get, whether the regular posts are videos or not.

Trying to cope with Instagram's new updates? Try these 3 things.

The length of Instagram Reels has recently changed, allowing you to create anywhere from just a few seconds up to a minute and a half.

Reels are a great way to have a little fun with your staff, your products, share expertise and entertain.

Try it out, even if it feels awkward, even if it feels silly. And if you're feeling too conscious about being on video, check out these tips to look and feel more natural.

Ultimately, we want to stand out on a platform and reach more people. On Instagram, Reels are the best way to do that (and on Facebook, too).

2. Don't Stay Glued to One Social Media Platform

It's the old idea of not putting all your eggs in one basket. We don't know what will happen with any of the social media platforms that we have built businesses on.

They could completely change beyond our recognition, or simply disappear. We don't mean to scare you, but this is fact.

Limiting yourself and your business to only one platform is frankly short-sighted. Even if you've built a large and loyal following on Instagram, you don't control the algorithm.

You can eliminate the possibility of disappearing by putting your business on several platforms, such as Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Twitter, YouTube, etc. You don't need to be on all of these, but aim for two or three at least.

Sticking to just one social media platform puts you at risk of the whims of one company.

And we know that this idea might be overwhelming for you, but it can be super simple by creating content that you can repurpose across all your social media channels.

(If you have some ideas, but need help creating more content, tap here)

3. Build and Maintain a Website for Your Business

We have already spooked you one about being subject to the whims of these social media giants. And while we don't think they're going anywhere anytime soon, you have seen the changes that can be made, which may or may not work for you.

So wouldn't it be great if you could be in control of your online business: how it looks, the content that is shown and how to navigate through it?

You need a website.

And if you already have a website, you need to be able to maintain and update it yourself (and make sure you're not doing any of these things.)

Having your own website means that you are completely in control of how it works, what people see and how they see it. You can use Google Ads and social media ads to promote it, and you can link to it from all your social media platforms.

This is the BEST way to not allow someone else to be in control. This is the BEST way to maintain an online presence, no matter what any other company decides to do, or if everyone decides to have an Instagram boycott, your company will be safe.

BONUS TIP:

As we all have fun taking jabs at Instagram and the platform's seemingly endless identity crisis and FOMO, try to remember gratitude.

We know it's annoying trying to keep up with everything. We know you're tired of adapting and pivoting, pivoting and adapting. But the bottom line is that it's free.

Instagram is a free platform where you are able to show off your products, and even sell your products. It's a place where you can show up as yourself and connect with others, meet amazing people and create familiarity and loyalty for your brand.

And that's pretty awesome.