Posted on By Kaylee Ghiuzelian

How to Get More Instagram Followers

How to Get More Instagram Followers

How to Get More Instagram Followers: A Complete Guide

Instagram continues to be one of the most powerful social media platforms, with over 2 billion monthly active users as of 2025. Whether you’re an influencer, a business, or just looking to grow your personal brand, gaining more followers is essential for increasing engagement, visibility, and opportunities.

However, Instagram’s algorithm is constantly evolving, and old growth tactics may no longer work. To stay ahead, you need updated strategies that align with the latest trends.

In this guide, we’ll cover 15 proven ways to get more Instagram followers in 2025, including:
✔ Optimizing your profile for maximum impact
✔ Leveraging AI and automation tools
✔ Mastering Instagram Reels and Stories
✔ Collaborating with influencers and brands
✔ Using Instagram’s newest features

Let’s dive in!

1. Optimize Your Instagram Profile for Discoverability

Your Instagram profile is your digital business card. If it’s not optimized, people won’t follow you. Here’s how to make it perfect:

A. Use a High-Quality Profile Picture

  • If you’re a personal brand, use a clear, professional headshot.

  • Businesses should use their logo (ensure it’s high-resolution).

B. Write a Compelling Bio

  • Keep it short and engaging.

  • Include keywords (e.g., “Digital Marketer | SEO Expert”).

  • Add a CTA (e.g., “Follow for daily marketing tips”).

  • Use emoji to make it visually appealing.

C. Include a Clickable Link

  • Use Linktree or Taplink to add multiple links.

  • Update the link regularly (e.g., for promotions, new blog posts).

D. Switch to a Business or Creator Account

  • Gives access to Instagram Insights (analytics).

  • Allows contact buttons (Email, WhatsApp, etc.).

2. Post Consistently (But Don’t Sacrifice Quality)

Instagram’s algorithm rewards consistent posting, but quality matters more than quantity.

  • Best times to post in 2025:

    • Morning (7 AM – 9 AM)

    • Lunchtime (12 PM – 2 PM)

    • Evening (6 PM – 9 PM)

  • Use Instagram Insights to find your audience’s peak times.

  • Aim for 3-5 posts per week + daily Stories.

3. Master Instagram Reels for Viral Growth

Reels are the #1 way to grow fast in 2025. Instagram prioritizes them, so you must use them.

How to Create Engaging Reels:

✅ Hook viewers in the first 3 seconds (ask a question, use text overlay).
✅ Use trending sounds & hashtags (check Instagram’s “Trending” section).
✅ Keep it short (7-15 seconds) for maximum retention.
✅ Add captions (70% of users watch without sound).
✅ Post at least 3 Reels per week for consistent growth.

Pro Tip:

  • Remix & Duet popular Reels to piggyback on viral trends.

4. Use AI Tools to Enhance Your Content

AI is revolutionizing Instagram growth. Here are the best AI tools for 2025:

🔹 ChatGPT – Helps generate captions, content ideas, and hashtags.
🔹 Canva AI – Creates stunning graphics and Reels templates.
🔹 Predis.ai – Analyzes competitors and suggests winning content.
🔹 CapCut AI – Auto-edits videos with transitions and effects.

Using AI saves time and improves content quality.

5. Engage with Your Audience Daily

Instagram’s algorithm favors active engagement. The more you interact, the more visibility you get.

Ways to Boost Engagement:

  • Reply to every comment (even with emojis).

  • DM new followers (send a thank-you message).

  • Engage in niche-related posts (comment on top accounts).

  • Host Q&A sessions in Stories.

  • Run polls & quizzes to encourage interaction.

6. Leverage Instagram Stories & Highlights

Stories keep your audience engaged between posts.

How to Use Stories Effectively:

  • Post 3-5 Stories daily (mix of polls, behind-the-scenes, and promotions).

  • Use interactive stickers (polls, questions, quizzes).

  • Add trending music & GIFs for more reach.

  • Save important Stories to Highlights (e.g., “Tutorials,” “Testimonials”).

7. Collaborate with Influencers & Brands

Partnering with others exposes you to new audiences.

Types of Collaborations:

  • Shoutout exchanges (feature each other in Stories).

  • Giveaways (team up for a joint contest).

  • Guest Reels (appear in each other’s videos).

How to Find Partners:

  • Search niche-related hashtags.

  • Use Collabstr or Upfluence to find influencers.

8. Run Instagram Ads (Smartly)

Paid ads can fast-track growth if done right.

Best Ad Strategies for 2025:

  • Boost high-performing Reels (5−20 per day).

  • Run follower-growth campaigns (target lookalike audiences).

  • Use carousel ads to showcase multiple products.

9. Use SEO Strategies for Instagram

Yes, SEO works on Instagram in 2025!

How to Optimize for Instagram SEO:

  • Use keywords in:

    • Bio (e.g., “Best Fitness Coach in NYC”).

    • Captions (natural keyword placement).

    • Alt text (describe images for search).

  • Research hashtags (mix of high & low competition).

10. Host Giveaways & Contests

People love free stuff! A well-run giveaway can boost followers fast.

Giveaway Best Practices:

  • Ask users to:

    • Follow you

    • Tag 2 friends

    • Share in Stories

  • Partner with brands for bigger prizes.

11. Cross-Promote on Other Platforms

Promote your Instagram on:

  • TikTok (add “Follow me on IG” in captions).

  • YouTube (mention in videos).

  • Twitter/X (share Instagram posts).

  • Email newsletters (add social links).

12. Analyze & Adapt with Instagram Insights

Track what’s working and adjust:

  • Top-performing posts (make more of that content).

  • Follower demographics (post when they’re active).

  • Reach & engagement rates (test new strategies).

13. Join Engagement Groups & Pods

Engagement groups (DM groups where members like/comment) still work if used wisely.

Where to Find Them:

  • Facebook Groups (search “Instagram engagement”).

  • Telegram engagement pods.

14. Buy Instagram Followers? (The Truth)

⚠️ Avoid fake followers! They hurt engagement.
✅ Better alternative: Use organic growth services (e.g., Nitresso) that get real followers.

15. Stay Updated with Instagram Trends

Instagram changes fast. Follow social media blogs like:

  • Social Media Today

  • Later.com

  • HubSpot’s Instagram Marketing Guide

Growing on Instagram in 2025 requires a mix of:
✔ High-quality content (Reels, Stories, posts)
✔ Smart engagement (comments, DMs, collaborations)
✔ AI & automation tools (for efficiency)
✔ Consistency & adaptability (track analytics)

Start implementing these strategies today, and watch your follower count rise!