Here’s How to Get Verified on Instagram (Yes, Anyone Can Apply Now)
Before August 2018, it was nearly impossible to get verified on Instagram. The status symbol was reserved for a select few “public figures, celebrities, and brands,” and there wasn’t even an official application process or form to fill out.
Basically, you had to already be well-established on the platform and have a contact at Instagram who could help you out.
But that’s changed. Now anyone can easily request a verified badge—but that doesn’t mean getting approval is easy. It’s not.
In this guide we’ll show you how to apply for verification and offer tips on how to increase your chances of getting the coveted blue tick.
Bonus: Download a free checklist that reveals the exact steps an adventure photographer used to grow from 0 to 110,000 followers on Instagram with no budget and no expensive gear.
How to get verified on Instagram
Applying only takes a few moments.
- Open the Instagram app and navigate to Settings
- Scroll down and tap Request Verification
- Type in your account name, full name, and a photo of your ID if you’re a person, or a legal or business ID if you have an Instagram for Business account
- Hit Send
Simple enough, right?
After reviewing your application, you’ll be notified whether your request is approved or denied. But don’t expect a response right away. There’s not a specified timeline for how long the process takes.
So, should you apply? Let’s answer some frequently asked questions.
“Is Instagram verification really all that great?”
Being verified means your account has been confirmed as authentic by Instagram. This helps people avoid imposters and easily find the brands or public figures they want to follow. Verified accounts have a little blue check mark beside their name.
“Will my application be approved?”
This seal of approval from Instagram is in high demand, which is precisely why they won’t verify any and every account. If everyone could get verified on Instagram, the designation would lose its value.
So, it depends on whether your account meets all the qualifications…
“Okay, so what do I need to be verified by Instagram?”
First, you must also follow Instagram’s Terms of Service and Community Guidelines.
And then your account must also be…
- Authentic. Obviously you have to be who you say you are. That is, a real person, registered business, or brand.
- Unique. Only one account per person or business may be verified, with exceptions of language-specific accounts. Instagram says it does not verify general interest accounts like meme roundups.
- Public. If you’re looking to get verified, surely your account is already viewable to everyone, yes?
- Complete. You must have a bio, profile photo, and at least one post. Note: Instagram says your profile must not contain “add me” links to other social media services.
- Notable. Again, Instagram stresses that verified accounts must “represent a well-known, highly searched for person, brand, or entity.” So, a public figure, celebrity, or global brand. When it reviews a verification application, Instagram looks at whether the user is featured in multiple news sources. Paid or promotional content doesn’t count.
Bonus: Download a free checklist that reveals the exact steps an adventure photographer used to grow from 0 to 110,000 followers on Instagram with no budget and no expensive gear.
Get the free checklist right now!“What if I can’t get verified by Instagram?”
If you can’t get verified, there are other ways to convey the authenticity of your Instagram account—and boost your chances down the road.
1. Promote your Instagram account on your website and other social profiles
Not only will this help more people find you on Instagram, it will clear up any confusion about which accounts are your official ones.
So include a link to your Instagram profile on your other social media channels, website, and any other online profile you maintain.
2. Share your Instagram account in other communications
You could also include your Instagram handle in your email signature or newsletter. This will ensure that people who are already in contact with your brand can find you on Instagram.
You should also embed your Instagram content in blog posts. That way people that discover your blog via a search engine can connect with you on the ‘gram
And don’t rule out offline communications tools like product packaging, business cards, or signage at an event or store.
3. Maintain a consistent brand aesthetic
Sixty percent of the top brands on Instagram use the same filter for every post, according to an analysis by WebDam.
Using the same filter over and over allows you to establish a look on Instagram that’s consistent with your overall branding—which people should recognize from your website and/or products.
This will serve as a signal to users that your Instagram account is legit.
4. Make sure your Instagram username is the same as it is on other channels
Same concept as above. Consistent branding—text and visual—makes it easy for your followers on other platforms to find and recognize you on Instagram.
5. Include a link to your website on your profile
Another easy way to show that your account is authentic. But again, do not include a link to another network. Instagram says it won’t approve profiles that “contain ‘add me’ links to other social channels.”
6. Write a strong bio
It should showcase who you are and what you do, convey personality, and include relevant keywords (for better discoverability) and a compelling call-to-action.
More Instagram bio ideas and tips here.
7. Flaunt connections with verified accounts
For example, if you work for a brand that is already verified, include your title and the company’s Instagram handle in your bio. This will boost your credibility.
8. Choose the right profile photo
If you’re representing a brand, this should be the company’s logo.
Whatever image you choose, make sure it adheres to Instagram’s recommended dimensions for profile photos: 320 x 320 pixels. It must also be centered so that it works with the circular profile photo format.
9. Resubmit your application
If at first you’re denied for verification, take the time to follow the advice above to improve your profile and grow your Instagram presence. Once you’ve made the necessary changes and further establish yourself on the platform, there’s no harm in trying again.
Ultimately, getting verified will depend on sticking to a winning Instagram strategy and building a dedicated following. Do that, have patience, and it could happen for you.
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The post Here’s How to Get Verified on Instagram (Yes, Anyone Can Apply Now) appeared first on Hootsuite Social Media Management.
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Wednesday, August 29, 2018
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