Instagram, one of the most popular social media platforms, has been receiving criticism lately due to the mixed messaging coming from its communication team. With contradictory advice being shared through official accounts, confusion and debate are sparking within the Instagram community.
One of the instances of conflicting advice from Instagram includes a slide shared at a creator event advising against posting Reels longer than 90 seconds. However, Instagram later published a video overview explaining how to create Reels longer than 90 seconds, creating confusion among users. The point of contention here is that while longer Reels can still be posted, they may not be eligible for recommendation in the Explore or Reels tab, significantly reducing their reach potential.
In another instance, Instagram advised against using answer-specific call to actions (CTAs) in video clips, stating that content explicitly asking for engagement may not be recommended. While this advice is not new, users are concerned about the impact on their marketing strategy, especially with tools like ManyChat that prompt engagement based on automated triggers. Instagram’s recommendation to avoid specific words, numbers, or emojis in CTAs could potentially affect reach and performance, leading users to rethink their approach.
Despite the confusing advice from Instagram, it is essential for users to experiment with different approaches and adapt their strategic approach accordingly. While Instagram’s suggestions may influence the way content is created and shared, it is important to consider the platform’s recommendations in the overall marketing strategy. Users are encouraged to test various methods to see what works best for their specific audience, while also being mindful of Instagram’s evolving guidelines.
The mixed messaging from Instagram’s comms department highlights the challenges social platforms face in communicating effectively with their user communities. While Instagram may be attempting to provide specific and helpful advice, the lack of clarity and inconsistency in messaging can lead to confusion among users. It is crucial for Instagram to listen to feedback from its users and refine its guidance to better serve the needs of the community.
Navigating through Instagram’s mixed messaging requires users to stay informed, adapt to changes, and experiment with different approaches. By understanding the platform’s recommendations and incorporating them into their strategic approach, users can optimize their content and engagement on Instagram. Despite the confusion caused by contradictory advice, users can use this opportunity to refine their strategies and interact more effectively with their audience.
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