We’re all about being a hype girl on Instagram–celebrating other women’s wins, sympathizing with hard losses, and relating to the stories women share on the ‘Gram. Notable female entrepreneurs like Jenna Kutcher, Ashley Graham, and Jen Gotch have set the stage for authentic and real Instagram content published by women just like us. Using Instagram to share your story can be an empowering way to show up for your brand or business! If you’re looking to push past any fears and boost your confidence online, I’ll be sharing my best tips for showing up as your authentic self. You never know who you may inspire by being vulnerable on social media!

Mini Blog Posts as Captions

Instagram captions have evolved over time from snappy and short to now being lengthy. Influencers and brands have found that followers tend to engage more with longer captions that build connection. Say goodbye to lyric-quoting days and welcome the opportunity to tell a story. The “mini-blog captions” have a clear beginning, middle, and end to cover topics like mental health, body image, and difficult life-lessons.

Kahlea Nicole has used her captions to share her testimony and journey from once being admitted to a Psychiatric hospital to now being a successful business coach. She opened up about a difficult topic on her caption that many of her followers related to. Sharing this vulnerable story of growth from a place of sincerity gave her a chance to reflect on how far she’s come and inspire women experiencing hardships in their own lives. 

If diving in deep feels uncomfortable, start with something that ends on a positive note! These open captions aren’t places to rant, it’s a space to show the lesson or action. 

Filter-Free, Makeup-Free IG Stories

The best place to start showing up on Instagram is through Instagram stories. Their off-the-cusp and unpolished nature make them the perfect way to start offering value to your audience. Simply start with 15-seconds of video each day. Show up as you . . . filter-free and makeup-free. Many of us feel the need to be “put together” before going on video, but you’ll feel truly empowered by embracing yourself as you are. Jen Gotch uses her Instagram stories to share her mental health struggles, including travel anxiety. 

One of my social media clients loved her butterfly, glitter filter. She consistently used it every time she posted on stories. After I encouraged her to try going filter-free, she initially was opposed. She eventually ditched the filter for good and her audience gushed about how she was glowing! They appreciated seeing her fully on IG stories. I tell you this story to empower you to show up as you. Using video and filming for Instagram stories is a muscle–it takes practice. Step outside of your comfort zone and eventually it will feel good–and will build your brand.

Go Live without Edits

Let’s talk about the dreaded L-word: live streams. Instagram Live streams are completely unedited and stream to viewers real-time. This type of video is a great way to connect with your audience in a conversational way! But this form of social communication may stir up worry and anxiety because of the what-ifs.

What if no one watches? What if I mess up? What if I forget what to say?

I’ve even experienced these hiccups myself along with your favorite online personality. Live streams can inspire us to embrace the imperfections that make us human and relatable. If you’re ready to take the plunge into live streaming, here are a few strategies to get you started:

  • Find an action to revert back to if you ever forget your thoughts or have a slip up. For me, it’s taking a deep breath and a few seconds to pause and regroup. For others, it may be a filler phrase like, “Wow, I’m just so excited about this topic” to help you get back on track.
  • Avoid watching the live stream numbers. People will come and go because they’re busy, not as a reflection of your content. Keep speaking and engaging with your audience.
  • Jot down major talking points to have handy during your Live. Practice them beforehand and keep them close in case you need to reference a talking point.
  • Start small when it comes to the length of your live stream. Start with a minute or two and grow from there. 

 

These strategies will help you grow your own voice on Instagram to connect with other women and inspire others! Whether you’re a personal brand or a business, you can use these Instagram tips to empower women.