Instagram is a social media platform and a giant in its own right. With over 6-million active followers, it is the most popular social media platform in the world. Instagram had started its journey as a simple photo-sharing platform almost a decade back. However, it has now transformed into a force to be reckoned with when promoting everything saleable in the world.
However, is Instagram solely for selling products, services and for posting fancy photos? To answer the question with which this post starts, yes, you can popularize educational content on Instagram. And it is not just that; there is a need for promoting educational content through social media simply because of the reach and the high visibility numbers.
Social media and the COVID-19 crisis
The ongoing COVID-19 crisis has elucidated the importance of social media in our lives when disseminating information. Social media has bridged the information gap from social distancing norms to doctors trying to calm hundreds of worried individuals through simple tips and online appointments. Therefore, we can safely assume that social media is the perfect platform for getting the entire world onboard on a single idea.
Here is how to make informational content on social media.
Pick the topic
The first step is to pick the topic you want to discuss. Keep in mind that you need to have a specific topic to share details about it to be informative and helpful to the audience. Keep in mind users will be looking to you for advice, so always choose a topic you are comfortable with and remember, research in-depth to avoid pitfalls. Before you post anything, make sure it is factually correct and do an in-depth analysis of the current trends regarding the matter on a global scale.
Take stock of the delivery method
We all know the adage knowledge is as good as the tutor. That is why the method of delivery and the choice are fundamental. Thousands of profiles deliver valuable content through pictograms, blog posts, images, and even direct shares. Before writing the content, be clear on the delivery method. Instagram has tons of ways to deliver valuable content. However, you can never get your audience to read scientific papers on COVID-19 findings. This is where you need to research, summarize and provide authentic details to your users in the most straightforward format imaginable.
The caption is vital
A great tip is to utilize the caption to provide the gist of valuable information. Instagram allows 2,200 characters for picture captions, and this is where you can explain the concepts or findings as briefly as possible. Remember that users might be using screen-readers, so putting in a chunk of information in the caption always helps.
A carousel post
Instagram introduced the carousel feature in 2017, and since then, users have been able to upload multiple photos within the same post. Carousels can tell a complete story if you use them right, especially for providing informational content. Keep in mind each image can have its separate caption, so all the more room for you to enjoy.
Video content is the king
When it comes to educational content, you can never go wrong with video files. Keep in mind with images. You can only share a part of the information. For an in-depth analysis and discussion, you can achieve more with video posts.
The Instagram story feature
The Instagram story feature is another brilliant option if you are looking to share informational content on Instagram. You can teach your audience facts and details about a particular item, scientific discovery, or pressing world issues. You can save your best stories as highlight reels. You can also think about adding life to your Instagram story via music.
The Instagram live feature
As an authority content provider, you will have to take questions from your audiences and followers. If you provide educational content, for example, on COVID-19, your followers will bombard you with questions, doubts, and fears. Doing a live feature session to answer all their queries in detail will ensure substantial traffic numbers and boost popularity for future efforts. You can also regularize your Instagram live sessions into an educational podcast of sorts.
Instagram reels
Instagram reels are the shortest video feature that you can find on this social media platform. Reels are perfect for teaching a quick topic, with jazzed-up features like filters, slow motions, and music. You can also use reels to point to information or pictures on the screen. In short, reels provide you with some of the most innovative tricks to provide educational content.
Yes, there is a need for educational content on social media. It is the best platform to connect to a global audience, educate and deal with pressing issues like a worldwide pandemic. So, if you have the skills and the knowledge, build your Instagram profile around educational content. All the best!
