Creators and influencers spend a considerable amount of time on social media platforms like Instagram. Therefore, it is necessary that they are equipped with tools and features which will help them filter the information they interact with. Influencers need to be able to control what they see and come across on the platform to maintain a healthy space of mind.
Instagram users need to be able to restrict and block content they find disturbing or offensive on the platform. While this might seem like a simple element of a social media platform, it goes a long way in developing a space that is optimal for the user.
Instagram has multiple features and tools that help create a space curated to its users’ needs and preferences. All one needs to do to be able to form a comfortable, interactive community on Instagram is to change a few settings and add a few filters.
8 important Instagram features influencers should look into
We have put together a list of some of the most effective features that will help users in creating a comfortable space for themselves on Instagram.
Hiding like counts
While like counts can be a great way to measure your success, it is also an element of the social media world that has been seen to affect the mental health of its users. Influencers have often expressed concern when their posts aren’t doing well despite the energy and effort that went into them. With the ability to hide the like count on your posts, you will be able to freely post without worrying about what your followers think about the reach your post is getting. Interestingly, the hide like count feature can be applied to all the other posts on your feed. This helps users to be at ease and not worry about the numerical on their posts and that of their friends and competitors. This feature extensively changes the dynamics of the platform and is utilised by many users and influencers in the industry.
Mute push notifications
We all like it when our phone goes ping, ping, and ping! However, for influencers who are constantly on the platform, notifications from the app can be frustrating and overwhelming. Most influencers are reluctant to use the mute push notifications feature to avoid missing out on important messages and comments. If you are someone who needs a little break from the hundreds of notifications popping up on your feed, muting push notifications will help you feel at ease. A little delay in receiving information will not affect your profile or feed. Give yourself some downtime by staying away from notifications.
Restrict or block hateful accounts
The Restrict feature on Instagram is an interesting approach to controlling people’s access to your content and well-being. While blocking an account completely eliminates your interaction with the unfavourable user, restricting the account allows you to see what they are doing. It lets you decide whether their activity can be seen on your feed. Blocking has been proven to escalate situations; therefore, restricting people might be a more effective way of protecting your mental health while using the platform.
Schedule posts in advance
There are many tools out there that let you schedule your social media posts. Planning your posts will decrease the time you anticipate posting content on the app. It is also an effective time management strategy that will leave you with more time on your hands to do things you enjoy. When social media is your line of work, Instagram isn’t a pass-time but its opposite.
Mentions and tags
Online bullying is a prevalent problem in today’s world. Instagram is a platform that has extensively worked to create features and tools to minimise its effects. Instagram allows its users to decide who will be able to mention them in comments, captions, Stories, and Live broadcasts. This feature is incredibly useful and makes Instagram a safer and more comfortable space. Influencers who are bullied on the internet can restrict their access to them through this tool.
Time spent on the app
While this feature can be extremely scary, it is a great way to keep track of your time on the app. By being aware of the time you invest in the platform, you can consciously decide to limit its influence on your everyday life. Influencers can always find different ways to stay active on the platform, for example, by scheduling their posts beforehand.
Follow the right accounts, unfollow the negativity
Your Instagram feed is a space that affects you considerably, especially if you spend a good fraction of your time on the platform. Don’t shy away from unfollowing accounts that make you feel negative or unhappy. Fill your feed with content that makes you feel good and excited and keeps you informed. There are many accounts on Instagram that work to increase the positivity on the app. Follow accounts that are best for you.
Use the Not interested option
To be able to curate a space on Instagram that is designed to your needs and likes, it is essential that you give the app information on what you are interested in and what you are not. The Not interested option can be a game-changer when you want only the best content on your Explore page. Don’t shy away from telling Instagram that you would like to see something different from what you are being served.
These are a few of the most effective ways to control how Instagram influences your physical and mental well-being. As an influencer, it can be highly beneficial to go through the different features available on the platform to create a positive space for yourself.
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