Instagram 2021 Updates & What It Means For Brands

You might have already heard the news – and if you haven’t yet, we’re sure you’ve seen some of the changes taking place on Instagram. 

In case you missed Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri’s announcement on Twitter, he shared that Instagram will no longer be a ‘photo-sharing app’. Your Instagram feed probably looks a lot different than it did when the app originally launched in 2010, and many more big changes are underway.

Mosseri stated, “The number one reason people say that they use Instagram, in research, is to be entertained. So people are looking to us for that.” 

With the alleged data collected, Instagram is pivoting its platform to primarily function for video, shopping, and messaging content. These updates are set to roll out over the next year, and the algorithm will begin to tailor to these categories in the coming months.

So what does this mean for small businesses, brands, and social marketers?

Well, let’s start with the pros. 

There is going to be an influx of new formats to share content coming to Instagram, such as: 

• longer videos shared to Stories

• new reactions to Stories such as ‘likes’

• the ability to upload photos and videos from a desktop

• a new “Collab” feature to use within Reels

• new cross-posting features between Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp

Another positive feature rolling out is an update to the Insights tool, that will provide more data for marketers, business owners, or creator profiles. The new data is supposed to provide more specific detail about who is engaging with your content. New demographic insights will be incorporated into the data, providing a more comprehensive view of who you’re reaching with your different IG posts, and how they’re engaging.

And as part of its broader shift towards video content, Instagram is testing longer videos in stories and new stories-to-reels links as two new options to maximize user engagement. Instagram’s goal is to streamline content creation and process, by scaling back the platform’s various tools which is why they’ll be putting more specific focus on Stories and Reels. With this initiative in play, you’ll see the removal of IGTV and an eventual end to the traditional Instagram feed.

What this will do for brands, business owners, and marketers alike is open themselves up to being more creative with video content by keeping up with trends on Reels and TikTok. It will encourage us to engage more by collaborating with more influencers, brands, and users as well as promote more interaction and communication with them daily. In doing so, it will increase exposure and brand awareness, as well as open your page up to new insights from your following.

The cons you ask? Well… 

There’s an argument to be said that Instagram is detaching itself from what users originally came to the app for. Additionally, there’s a notion that Instagram is trying to mimic TikTok’s popular format instead of valuing the distinctions between the two apps. The mixed reviews might leave you wondering if all the changes will end up driving users away.

Is the competition with TikTok their primary focus? Maybe. Marketers will tell you that video has been, and will continue to be the driving force of engagement within social media so it’s not shocking that Instagram wants video to be in the driver’s seat. However, Instagram has always been a place for users and creatives to showcase their photos to the world, and now that atmosphere is essentially going to be blocked out.

Secondly, you might be wondering how many new metrics of data will be coming in, and what you really want to take into consideration. With all the new formats, it’s been tricky, to say the least, to juggle creating content across Instagram’s ever-changing algorithm. And to continue to bring in new interaction features only multiplies the many ways we track engagement. 

If moving their photo-sharing platform status to video wasn’t enough, Instagram is also prioritizing their online shopping experience to be the main proponent in their algorithm. It isn’t quite clear how they plan to do so, but overall we know that Instagram’s goal is to be a one-stop-shop entertainment app driven by algorithms and videos.

How to Get Ahead of the Algorithm 

Do we ever really know exactly what the algorithm is going to favor next? No. But here’s a few ways to stay in the loop and make the best judgment you can:

1. Stay on top of news and updates – We like to Use Social Media Today, The Verge, and TechCrunch

2. Follow trends and make content that applies to your brand

3. Test out new sticker formats, boost engagement, and get feedback from your audience – A popular trend is using the Polls sticker to ask followers what they like to see from you or doing “This or That” polls to boost engagement. It’s fun, interactive, and insightful!

4. Make plans to incorporate longer forms of video – Make no mistake, videos are much more complex than snapping a photo or creating a graphic… but they’re also more compelling! Not only will they boost your engagement but prioritize your content in the new algorithm feed.

Thoughts on the rollout of new Instagram updates? We’d love to hear your feedback! 

6 Tips on Writing Creatively and Effectively for Your Blog

Creative blog writing can be a great outlet to express your thoughts, opinions, and knowledge with others. The internet today is overflowing with amazing blogs to find insight and information from.

If you’ve ever thought about tapping into your creative side through writing but aren’t sure where to start, you’re not the only one!

Getting started with a new blog can seem like a big task. But you don’t need to stress – I’ve rounded up 6 of the best tips I have to write creatively and more effectively when you’re starting out:

Tip #1: Know your audience. 

What would they come to you with questions about? The quickest way to decide your next blog topic is to know your audience and know what they’d be interested in hearing about from your brand. What’s something you can teach or impart to them?

Tip #2: Be concise.

Nowadays, most readers scan blog posts to find what they’re looking for. Keeping your blog concise, and easy to digest is best when writing. Think about how you can explain what you’re trying to in the simplest form possible. This is something that can be hard to train your mind to do, but it’s much more effective and time-efficient.

Tip #3: Use more subheadings and less jargon.

Subheadings are a great way to break up text and section your blog post clearly. This also helps all the people scanning your blog find the information they’re looking for easier. Using less industry jargon also improves readability.

Tip #4: Include imagery and video wherever possible.

People will always stop scrolling for a video and high-quality photo. Even a GIF being thrown in here and there is highly engaging.

Tip #5: Focus on SEO to Rank Higher.

This is an easy thing that is often missed out on when starting out! Understanding the basics of SEO and using keywords to use to rank higher on Google is important. I recommend Yoast to help guide you!

Tip #6: Be consistent and personable.

Readers enjoy light humor and a blog they know they can come back to for more engaging content!

Your Daily Social Media Checklists to Increase Engagement

If the title of this blog piqued your interest – good! We’re glad you’re here.

Why? Because you probably are feeling a little overwhelmed managing your brand’s social media. Or, you’re looking for clear guidelines on ways to increase engagement and followers in today’s digital atmosphere.

Either way, we totally get it. It’s a lot to take in and can be time-consuming, but it doesn’t have to be.

Today’s Social Media Channels

The days of social media being an optional marketing channel are over. The social scene today has expanded and grown rapidly since its start. 

Nowadays a social presence is an expectation for most businesses, with 80% of marketers saying they rely on social media to raise brand awareness.

Let’s get started with the basics:

Pick Your Social Channels

It’s important to understand the individual channels and where your business needs to be. Bigger brands with large audiences tend to have presences across every channel, however, your brand may not need to dominate each space. 

That’s why it’s important to consider which platforms will make the most sense for your industry and audience.

Complete Your Profile(s) Information

Not only is this vital for your business to be filled out correctly and fully, but it’ll make your profile look more professional, while also making your business easier to find.

This includes:

• Claim your businesses’ name and URL

• Choose brand profile image and creatives

• Fill in your ‘About’ sections, contact info, and links to your website

Your Social Media Checklists:

Twitter

Twitter is a go-to tool for businesses to provide customer service. It’s also a platform that historically brands showcase their quick wit and humor.

Below is a checklist for you to get started with on Twitter:

1. Monitor mentions, respond to any questions or concerns.

2. Retweet and interact with influencers (3-5)

3. Make connections and follow new people

4. Schedule new posts

5. Thank and respond to people retweeting your content

Facebook

Facebook is the world’s largest social media platform to date, though it can be hard to maintain growth with an always evolving algorithm. That being said, they set the gold standard for social media advertising.

If you are a brick-and-mortar business looking to target local customers, Facebook ads are a great way to grow your local following.

Below is a checklist for you to get started with on Facebook:

1. Be consistent and post on a regular basis

2. Monitor mentions, and thank anyone who shares your content

3. Respond to comments, DM’s, and page recommendations. Be thoughtful and generous with your responses!

4. Like and comment on 3-5 page updates or posts

5. Develop paid ad campaign to promote a new product, increase awareness, or offer discounts

6. Engage with people commenting on your paid ads

7. Tag relevant pages/users if you’re referencing them

Instagram

Though Facebook takes the cake with being the largest social platform, Instagram is another major platform for brick-and-mortar businesses, eCommerce, and influencer marketing.

At its core, it’s a visual content network, and it challenges brands to get creative.

Below is a checklist for you to get started with on Instagram:

1. Develop a consistent posting strategy, and share new posts to IG Stories

2. Post and follow relevant hashtags to broaden your audience

3. Like, comment, or follow 5-7 posts/users a day. Leave thoughtful comments!

4. Engage with users who comment or reshare your content

5. Share your ‘off the cuff’, in-the-moment, unedited, newsworthy content to IG stories!

LinkedIn

LinkedIn is the ‘networking guru’ platform of social media. It’s great for staying on top of business trends, networking with B2B companies, and making connections with influencers, marketing managers, and CEOs alike!

Below is a checklist for you to get started with on LinkedIn:

1. Develop a LinkedIn content strategy apart from your social media strategy for all other channels

2. Check incoming messages and respond to any necessary.

3. Approve invitations to connect that is a benefit and make sense to you / your brand.

4. Share relevant industry articles or your latest blog post to your profile.

5. Join 1-2 groups and see if you can volunteer answers.

6. Follow industry groups/hashtags a few times a week

7. Invite ‘decision makers’ to like or follow your page

Pinterest

Did you know that Pinterest is one of the largest search engines in today’s digital landscape? The visual pinning platform may not be for every brand but is definitely worthy of anyone sharing highly visual content.

Below is a checklist for you to get started with on Pinterest:

1. Pin 5 images per day. A mix of your content and other people’s.

2. Like 5 posts per day.

3. Repin 5 images per day.

4. Pin to group boards for added exposure.

5. Update boards or titles that need to be optimized.

TikTok

TikTok has very quickly become one of the most popular social media platforms to date.

Many brands have been incorporating TikTok into their social strategy and online presence in order to stay on top of trends, engage younger audiences, as well as show a lighter side of the brand through funny videos and challenges.

But it isn’t just large brands trying out the new platform on the block – Who would have guessed that a history museum (@sachistorymuseum) would go viral on TikTok? Us either, but they had their brand vertical ready and tried it out on a new platform.

In many ways, TikTok works the same as the other platforms in that users can like, share, and comment on videos. Think of it as your opportunity to share low-cost video content on a variety of platforms!

Below is a checklist for you to get started with on TikTok

1. Create your TikTok account/brand channel and fill out your profile

2. Establish a ‘vertical’. TikTok determines your account vertical on your first 5 videos, and will recommend your content to the proper audience.

3. Follow accounts that are popular with your ideal demographic.

4. Engage with similar accounts to gain exposure. TikTok rewards accounts that are active and engaging!

5. Post consistently and post often.

6. Cross-promote your TikTok account on your other social channels.

7. Stay relevant on all trends: challenges, hashtags, sounds, ads, filters, and more.

YouTube

Although it’s not always regarded as a social media platform, YouTube is highly engaging for video content and ranked as the second largest search engine on the internet (following Google).

Below is a checklist for you to get started with on YouTube:

1. Create an attainable content schedule and regularly upload videos

2. Clean up your descriptions, add keywords, your URL, and tags to older, but evergreen videos.

3. Ask questions from fans in your videos to address them, and create engagement

4. Engage with followers in the comments section, address questions, concerns, and feedback!

Now that you have your social media engagement checklists, and how to get started, it’s time to pick your platform and build your brand profile!

Don’t be discouraged and think you need to take every profile on at once. Start with one and watch the likes and comments pour in! Then when you’re ready, pick up another platform and cross-promote your channels!

Sacramento Small Businesses need our support this Christmas

Shop Local, Shop Small

It’s that special time of year, and yet, there are a few reasons that make this year in particular difficult to celebrate.

2020 has been a year (that sometimes felt like a decade) many of us are ready to move past. However, for some businesses, this will be the end of the road.

Because of a worldwide pandemic, multiple shutdowns have taken place throughout the year, and some businesses have kept the doors closed since March. Especially during this time of year, a time where purchasing would normally be at its highest, our local small businesses need us.

Instead of spending your money with a large retailer, we challenge you all to shop local. An item, service, or gift card purchase (big or small) will go a long way for our our community. Let’s support small businesses this year and help them get through the final days of otherwise a very difficult year for all.

We’ve rounded up a few (of many) local businesses that we at Three29 are shopping at this year!

Our Christmas List:

• Public Land

  • Purchase plants, pottery, apparel, and so much more. Order and gift card and give it to a friend or family member!

• Allspicery

  • Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift or just a restock on their famous DIY spice kits, Allspicery is your one-stop shop. Get your favorite spices shipped directly to your or a loved one’s door!

• All Good Never Better

  • Support a local street apparel brand with a hat, jacket, or socks to keep warm with this season. Also check out their latest 2020 line, “All Good, Weird Times”.

• Temple Coffee Roasters

  • A great gift idea for anyone who lives out of town, everyone loves their coffee! Plus, you can get a free Temple Holiday Mug with the purchase of two 12oz bags of coffee!

• Andy’s Candy Apothecary

  • Although Andy’s Candy online and in-store is temporarily closed till 2021, they could absolutely use our support come the new year. Join their mailing list and keep on the lookout for their new location and help them kick off with a fresh start!

• Mist Body Bar

  • Ladies! Megan owns the most adorable body bar boutique on J Street. Come in a shop apparel, jewelry, skin care and tanning products, or purchase a gift card for your favorite gal to come in!

• Propogate – Plants and Gatherings

  • Give a gift card to the one with the green-thumb in your life! Propagate is more than just a plant shop, but also offers design services to best suit the plant + potting for you!

• ClayFL_

  • This local Sacramento artist makes hand-crafted jewelry out of clay on her Etsy store. Gift to your mom, sister, or friend, and support her small business that opened this year!

• The Mill Sacramento

  • Another yummy treat! The Mill offers delicious coffees, tasty herbal teas and wholesome foods. Get an e-card or a gift for a friend! Plus, when you subscribe to their newsletter you’ll receive 10% off your first order from their sister company, Boutique as a gift!

• Cuffs Boutique

  • Shop their wrapped and ready gift sets when you’re in a pinch! A unique women’s apparel boutique, with something for every age!

• The Strapping Store

  • The ultimate gift store! From household items, to holiday decor, apparel and accessories, books, toys, snacks and so much more. It isn’t possible to leave empty-handed, and they make perfect small gifts for any occasion!

Google My Business is Helping Brands Make it Through a Pandemic

Local businesses, listen up!

First of all…Did you know that 46% of all Google searches are location-based? More importantly, over 50% of mobile searches are local or location-based and that number is still growing!?

One of the first places users go looking for products and services online is Google. We all do it!

If you didn’t think so before, Google My Business and Google Local Ads need to be a prominent piece of your local business’s marketing and search strategy. For all location-relevant businesses, these searches can be the most important queries you could hope to win because instead of window shoppers, these are people immediately converting into customers.

When do location searches matter most? Your location matters anytime someone is trying to do a search to find a product or service based on what they are in close proximity to. And if you haven’t already guessed, they’re searching right now on their mobile phones which use Google Maps that, yes, pull information from your Google My Business Page.

When you begin to edit your current listing (and add new listings if need be), be sure to be as complete and catchy as possible. Treat your Google My Business page as your new landing page, because it is what is going to show up at the top of people’s searches. 

Google is constantly working to evolve and make it easier for business owners to manage their online presence. As a part of their ongoing efforts, Google is adding new options within Search and Maps which will enable business owners to manage their Google My Business presence directly from their mobile devices.

Now every business owner will have the options necessary to edit their information, view messages, check reviews and more all on the go.

This is just one more reason to have your page’s information filled out entirely. When you use quality photos, make updates and respond to reviews using your unique brand voice will all reassure Google that your business is up-to-date and ‘active’. Therefore it will also place your business higher in the search results.

Your Google My Business page will also boost appeal among potential customers with reviews. Reviews are an influential factor when customers are making a purchasing decision. With nearly 90% of customers reading online reviews to evaluate the quality of a local business, and most customers always choose the product with the highest reviews.

Although the idea of reviews can be daunting, the review process is worth it to build trust and confidence with customers. Believe it or not, 88% of customers trust online reviews and believe they carry the same weight as a personal recommendation.

You also can track all of your marketing efforts through Google Analytics within your Google My Business account, making it a very simple way to navigate the flow of how your customers are finding your business and what strategies are working, and those that aren’t.

Now more than ever, your Google My Business profile is an essential place for your business to bring in new customers, as the world shifts entirely online, to see what locations are open, have curbside pickup, or are closed.

As previously stated, Google’s been looking to add more responsive, accessible business tools in recent months as it seeks to help businesses impacted by COVID-19. Eight months in, we have seen it affect nearly every industry and business, so Google Local’s initiative is to help during these times.

It’s worth logging on and taking a look at your Google Business listings if you haven’t. This is just one of the many cost-effective ways to maintain a valid market presence as economic circumstances change, and local search markets continue to grow.

Take a look at what there is being offered, and how it can help to showcase your brand! At the end of the day, Google My Business’s intention is to connect customers to local businesses. So why not let them help you?

Pack the personality of your brand into Instagram stories. →

Who doesn’t want (or need) free advertising? Going beyond the already free marketing tool that is your Instagram feed, have you ever thought about how Instagram stories can push your business even further?

We’re here to tell you just how well Instagram Stories are working for brands and how you can implement it into your social media strategy.

While most of us use the Instagram Feed posts were all familiar with to show off our best images, the plus side to Instagram Stories is their fleeting nature. This features where you can send quicker produced content that isn’t quite as polished. This could be glimpses into your business such as:

• Behind the scenes of what your featuring on your normal feed

• Real-time footage of an event at your store

• Promotions, special offers, etc.

Yes, keeping up with Instagram’s social profiles requires extra time and effort. So if you still need some convincing that this feature is worth it, we have 5 reasons why you need to add it to your marketing strategy:

1. You can add links to your Instagram Stories

   • This is actually the only place on Instagram where you can add a live link (besides the bio).

2. You can tag other accounts

   • This is smart for when connecting with influencers and partners, and can help you drive engagement and awareness of your restaurant.

3. You can post as often as you like

   • The Instagram algorithm is always changing and it can be tough to keep up with (or work with). That’s why Stories are great for posting as frequently as you want. Your followers can easily find it as soon as they log on.

4. You can be found by a wider range of followers

   • With the use of location tags and hashtags, Instagram Stories make your business easily more accessible to people who might not be already following your account.

5. You can be more fun and relaxed

   • The best thing you can do on your Instagram Story is to show your personality, especially if your normal feed keeps a slightly more professional tone. You’re more likely to gain/retain followers when they see your humor and fun side!

No need to wait, start sharing on your Instagram Story today!

Why product photography needs to be the bread-and-butter of your brand. →

Great photos can increase sales by 30%. Yep, t-h-i-r-t-y percent! Your product is the most crucial part of your brand, so why wouldn’t you want to show it off with some fire photos?

In the modern world we all are living digitally (aka on our phones). That means consumers are going to primarily see your brand online, whether it be through the website or on social media. The pictures you choose to share will be an important factor in how users see a brand and determining their purchase decisions.

So why should you jump on the high-quality photography bandwagon? Over 51% of Americans with internet access who prefer to shop online. It’s a trend that is only going to keep growing.

If you’re tired of using stock photography and your home studio shot photos just aren’t making the cut (or sale), you need to hire a photographer. Simply put, we’re not all photographers even though some of us would like to believe we are with our iPhone. Like everything else, photography is a skill and good product photography is more of an art form. A professional will elevate your brand with their creative eye and you will be able to use the images for competitive edge on Instagram and Facebook.

Having an active social media presence is crucial in today’s marketing landscape. If you haven’t made them by now, then you’re losing out on the single best opportunity to bring in new business. But that’s only half of the conversation. Social media is a crowded space, you need to do content better than everyone else.

There’s a huge potential for ROI when you use high-quality product photography in your social media feeds. There are millions of users who follow hashtags to discover new brands every day. So don’t hold back on the hashtags because there is one for every industry, movement, and day of the week.

With social media, the opportunity to go beyond your local community and organic reach using professional photography and hashtags is the easiest way to grow your audience and retain loyal customers. At the end of the day, everyone can appreciate the beautiful photo that made them stop aimlessly scrolling their feed.

And if you choose to take your own photos, that’s great! We know building your brand on social platforms requires a bit of time and energy, so we compiled some of our best tips to help you get started:

1. Get in early, take photos in the morning before you open! Plus you’ll get that morning sunrise natural light, so that’s already a win.

2. Capture behind the scenes exclusive shots, such as your staff hard at work, or have them help you model the shot.

3. Take as many photos as you can and keep them in your back pocket. It’s not realistic to shoot every day but a few times a month should provide plenty of content.

4. Plan ahead – there are a ton of scheduling tools and professionals who live to do this. Writing copy for captions comes best from the ones who created the brand voice, but there are plenty of copy-writers available to help at any time you feel overwhelmed. (*cough cough*)

Don’t get us wrong, creating and scheduling a monthly content calendar on top of managing a business would be an impressive feat… But just know, you don’t have to do it all!

Running a business is hard work, so if you need help, we happen to know a few guys!

The secret to cost-efficient marketing that attracts customers. →

If you ever wondered what the most cost-effective marketing trend was to grow your business, we have two words for you: Email. Marketing.

Why? Because in the U.S alone there are over 91% of adults who use email. And every dollar you spend on email marketing you make $38 in return. So, therefore, the benefits of email marketing are profound in getting foot-traffic through the door and turning them into sales.

Your competitors have already begun the jump too. Sixty-six percent of customers make a purchase as a result of email marketing. Email has also proven to be 40 times more effective than Facebook or Twitter in helping your business acquire new customers.

Data has shown that emails prompt purchases at three times the rate of social media. Also, the average value of a purchase is 17% higher than traditional purchases.

Data has shown that emails prompt purchases at three times the rate of social media. Also, the average value of a purchase is 17% higher than traditional purchases.

So what should your strategy be as you begin to build your email marketing campaign funnel? We’re glad you asked!

1. Set up your email list

   • Choose an email service provider! Campaign Monitor and Mail Chimp are some of our favorites.

   • Make sure your service provider supplies you with in-depth analytics so you can measure the success of your marketing campaigns.

2. Collect email addresses

   • You can do this by creating an opt-in form, aka ‘sign up for our newsletter’.

   • There are also ‘offline’ marketing tactics to gain emails, such as:

     • Adding a free offer popup in your homepage

     • Encouraging people to sign up by including an offer or signup URL on online orders.

     • Running a prize draw, and asking people to enter and opt into your marketing emails.

     • Using SMS marketing and asking people to send a text message to subscribe to your updates.

3. Send promotional and relational emails

   • Relational emails help build your relationship with your subscriber, by delivering free information or gifts.

   • Promotional emails promote your business and notify subscribers about offers and sales, such as:

     • Highlight new items, changes to product inventory, special sales, and events.

     • Tell the story of how your business got started.

     • Introduce subscribers to the people behind the brand

     • Show how you create your product.

     • Show off interviews, reviews, and positive coverage.

     • Include blog content.

     • Celebrate your customers.

And here’s a final piece of insider scoop to best marketing practices: Send a welcome email to your new subscribers! Make sure your online form sends an instant email, and add a catchy subject line for some extra incentive.

Don’t listen to the rumors, email is far from dead – we promise. In fact, it’s actually growing. So why wait on getting extra foot traffic through your door? Use email marketing to flood new and returning customers to your local business!

Crush your competitors with your social analytics. →

You may know how many likes you’re receiving on each post, but do you know how many eyes are actually seeing that really impressive new product shot, versus the ones who actually like and engage with it?

There are over 25+ million business Instagram profiles and over 200 million Instagrammers on the app daily who are looking at one business profile a day at least. The value of each posts actually contributing to your brand’s sales could be tripled if you know how to properly advertise to your audience.

One of the simplest ways to track your audience’s engagement with your content is with social media analytics. If you aren’t paying attention to your social analytics, you are missing out on a ton of valuable information to advertise your brand better and connect with your customers.

For example, what you could be gaining from your social analytics are:

1. The types of users who are viewing your ads and profile

2. How many people are engaging with your posts

3. How many are finishing your stories or swiping through them

4. The overall value that your account is actually driving

By missing the steps in tracking your performance, you also lose the opportunity to tailor and plan your social media strategy to fit the needs of your audience. Therefore, you could be posting content that might be a waste of time and money.

If you’re ready to improve your overall social media strategy, and here’s how:

Some basic data that you want to be following along with monthly in your analytics are:

• Impressions

  • The number of times your posts have been seen during the time frame

• Interactions

  • The number of actions taken on your account

• Reach

  • The number of unique accounts that have seen any of your posts

• Profile Visits

  • The total number of profile views over the week

• Website Clicks

  • The number of times visitors have clicked the link to your website button from your profile page

• Call/Email Clicks

  • The number of times visitors have clicked the call/email button from your profile page

• Mentions

  • The number of times your accounts handle has been mentioned by other users.

Your target audience is the ideal demographic of followers that you are pursuing. Some of the main factors to pay attention from this data are the following:

• Top locations

  • Allows you to see the top five cities and countries where your followers are located

• Age range

  • Have any idea how old your followers are? Instagram will break down each user’s age range and let you know.

• Gender

  • The distribution of your followers separated by men and women.

• Follower Hours

  • A helpful statistic to find the average time of day your followers are using the app

• Follower Days

  • Similarly, this shows the days of the week that your followers are most active

Instagram is able to break down each individual post added to your feed by interactions, discovery, follows, reach, impressions, saves, and followers’ comments. And if you want to go a step further, IG stories can also be tracked by their impressions, reach, exits, replies, and the people’s insights.

So, if it needs to be said again, well here it goes. You need to be tracking your social analytics, and understanding what they mean in order to better market your brand to the ideal target customer!

Take advantage of the free tools in one of the world’s largest social media platform and dig into your data. You’ll be glad you did.

HB on The Jump to Sacramento →

In an interview with hosts Rachel Nichols and former NBA star Richard Jefferson on The Jump this Tuesday morning, Harrison Barnes sat in and weighed in on how quickly Sacramento has grown on him in the short time he’s been with the young Kings.

As we know following the trade deadline in February, Barnes packed his bags and flew out of Dallas only to be greeted with extended arms in Sactown - where he quickly jumped on board to aid the Squad in the latter half of the 2018-19 season.

When asked of his initial impressions of the team, the organization and fans themselves, HB shared nothing short of positive feedback. “It was fun playing with the team in Sacramento for the second part of the season. They play extremely fast,” No. 44 proclaimed.

“The guys in the locker room were great guys, the organization is unbelievable, and the fans are loud and crazy, so to have that support behind you every single night was so fun,” HB continued.

Nichols expressed how Barnes’s acquisition in February was in tune with needing a ‘veteran presence’ to help out the young core in getting them to the next level. To which Nichols then asked what the small forward saw for the future of the Kings.

Barnes replied, “Obviously this year we didn’t reach our goal, but we’re very optimistic about next year.”

For the full interview, head over to ESPN: The Jump to watch!

Bleacher Report Lists Sactown as Top 10 Free-Agent Destination →

It’s no secret that the young Kings have the core – and with the team on the rise, it has been calculated in an article by Bleacher Report that Sacramento has great appeal to those who will hit free agency in the coming weeks.

B/R projected the rankings of all 30 NBA teams based off of Spotrac’s practical cap-space projections. These projections estimate the nearest value of how much spending money each team has in store for 2019’s free agency.

There are a variety of factors that go into these rankings – cash to spend, playing time availability, competitiveness, coaching, culture and overall organization.

“Who wouldn’t want to run with De’Aaron Fox?” noted Grant Hughes.

“The Kings have the makings of an exciting core with a defined up-tempo identity,” Hughes continued. “Sacramento appears to be a team on the rise. It won 39 games last year, its highest total since 2005-06, and the drivers of that success are all ridiculously young."

Sactown entered last season with an average age of 25.65-years-old, and with the young core established, it’s hopeful that free agents will consider joining in on the fun.

Make sure to catch the full breakdown by Bleacher Report, here.

Kings Ranked No. 1 NBA Twitter Account by Complex →

“If NBA Twitter is all about being timely and self-aware, putting out fire content, and listening to the fan base, then Sacramento is, well, king” as defined by Kazeem Famuyide of Complex Sports this Thursday.

Every year as the NBA Finals near, Complex Sports dishes out their rankings for the league’s most ‘fire’ digital squads – and they take their rankings very seriously.

Last year the Kings were ranked No. 2, falling short to the 76ers who won the title ranking and broke the Trail Blazers three-peat that ran from 2015-17.

Complex Sports judges all 30 NBA digital squads based off their many skillsets, but what is claimed to stand out the most is Photoshop proficiency, being on top of social media trends, a little friendly rivalry and overall wit. Only the teams with the most Twitter-ready fingers are dubbed in making it within the top five.

But don’t worry, Complex even included each team’s most ‘fire’ tweet of the season to show that the proof is in the pudding. And Sactown’s highest ranked tweet is indeed, FYRE.

The Top 5 Squads for NBA Twitter are as follows: 

1. Sacramento Kings (@SacramentoKings)

2. Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers)

3. Milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks)

4. Portland Trail Blazers (@trailblazers)

5. Atlanta Hawks (@ATLHawks)

For the full article with complete thought and analysis of rankings, click here!

Jelly Talk: HG Stops by Kings Central →

From the court to the nail salon, Harry Giles III has been a ‘Jelly’ fan from the jump.

Giles's particular guilty pleasure is the 'lava-like' massage on his feet.

In a wide-ranging interview with NBC Sports California’s Kayte Christensen-Hunter, HG said he was in elementary school when he started going to get pedicures with his mom.

With toenails to match the sheen of the hardwood, Gizzle worked his way to the Kings rotation during the 2018-19 season, participating in 58 games.

“Last year was tough,” Giles admitted. “It was hard for me to sit out and be okay with it sometimes. I came from college where I didn’t play as much, and then I got a late start to the season because of injury. But as hard as it was to take that time off, I am so happy that I did.”

When Kayte asked what he felt like he gained during that experience, HG replied, “I learned so much about patience [...] but when I started gaining weight and getting stronger, I was improving in ways that I never had reached before.”

“The recovery was amazing and worth it, I wish I would have embraced it more in the beginning,” Giles reflected. “I feel like I have so much more to show in so many different ways, and I’m so excited by the way fans are holding onto me and having a great time. It’s only the beginning."

Speaking of fans, Kayte directed the conversation towards the unwavering love Sacramento has shown No. 20 during his rookie season. 

“I love the energy and I love the game,” said Duke product. "I grew up playing in gyms in N.C. with a lot of energy, at Duke – where the fanbase is known for its energy. That’s what I was accustom to, and now I’m in Sacramento and we have the wildest, craziest most insane fans. This fanbase is meant for me.”

As their relaxing day was winding down, Giles was asked about the future of the young Kings.

“We can be one of the best teams because we have the core - just seeing how far we came this year gives us all the motivation in the world.”

Next time fans see H20 bring the jelly on the court, they'll know it started with the jelly off the court.

Buddy Buckets Hits the Road with UNINTERRUPTED →

From their days in college to becoming young leaders to fatherhood, no topic was off limits in the latest edition of the Road Trippin’ podcast. 

Buddy Hield joined the conversation on this episode, and while they were in Sacramento for this show, the conversation was engaging as ever.

When Christie asked No. 24 how fatherhood has changed his life, Buddy replied “She is bigger than me right now, everything I do is for her.

“Even though I have to be on the road, she watches me on TV and calls me on Facetime saying ‘Dada,’ said Hield. “That brings life to me, seeing that someone who is looking forward to seeing you and hearing from you. It gives me perspective for where I go from here now.”

Doug then turned to Swipa to ask what his first impressions of Buddy were before they were teammates.

“I knew he was an incredible player, but I remember seeing him get his butt whooped in the Final Four,” Fox laughed.

While playful banter was aplenty during the 30-minute conversation, it didn’t come without some sound advice from the Kings legend.

“You have to be that leader that takes over,” Christie tells Fox. “A leader knows what the medicine is for each person on the team.”

As for next season, Fox and Hield are already looking forward to getting back on the hardwood to build off their success.

“I think the younger guys took a big step this year,” said Fox. “But I think the step everyone took together this year was crazy, because of how good people think we could be and how much better we thought we should have been.

“Next season, the sky is the limit.”

Vlade Locked in on Luke Right Away →

“Luke was my No. 1 choice,” Vlade Divac stated.

In a post press conference interview with ABC10, Vlade laid out exactly what his process was in acquiring the newest head coach of the Kings, Luke Walton.

“I loved working with Dave [Joerger], and we had a good three years. But I felt very strongly about getting us to the next level and I had to do something about it,” Vlade explained.

The end of the regular season wrapped up on a Thursday and by Monday, press and members of the organization were sitting at Luke Walton’s introductory press conference, where he expressed his excitement to get started working with Vlade and the team. 

When the media inquired about how Divac came to his decision so swiftly, he stated, “I started thinking about what we did in this last season and I came to the conclusion that we had to do something in terms of a coach. And when Luke was available on Friday, I felt like that was our guy and I executed quickly."

Walton parted ways with the Los Angeles Lakers just one day after the conclusion of the 2018-19 campaign, and less than 24 hours later accepted his multi-year deal with the Kings.

“He came to Sacramento, we met and there was nothing to wait for,” Vlade continued. “I had made contact with other agents for meetings, but it wouldn’t be fair to other guys to take their time or prevent them from other opportunities.”

“I am very excited about Luke, he was one of my top candidates before but he wasn’t available,” Vlade elaborated. “It worked out somehow for both sides now – it was meant to be.”

When asked what quality of Luke’s he most admires? Vlade knew exactly what he was looking for in a coach.

“He has a good talent to put players in the right position to succeed, and that’s what I like the most. The relationships he builds with the players is very important with such a young team, so it is important for us.”

For the full interview with Divac and ABC10, click here.

Kings Young Core: Contenders or Pretenders? →

NBA columnist Zach Buckley gave some praise to the Squad in his latest article, which highlighted young NBA core teams that he believes are set to compete for championships in the near future, and those who might fracture before hitting the mark.

Buckley detailed the core teams he deems built to withstand the rigors of the playoff race, and truly vie for the crown.Out of five talented young NBA cores, which include: Boston, Denver, Philadelphia, Utah, and Sacramento – Buckley lists the Kings as potential contenders built for long-term success.

“Fox and Bagley are the biggest difference-makers,” Buckley writes.

“[Fox] is among the NBA's fastest players, and he's leveraged that speed to fuel a full-fledged breakout season,” Buckley exclaimed of No. 5’s impressive season.

“Since the All-Star break, Bagley is averaging 19.0 points and 8.9 boards with a 52.1/40.0/73.0 shooting slash,” Buckley continued, before quoting Kings head coach Dave Joerger. “I just think the sky’s the limit for Marvin […] You talk about just scraping the tip of what he can do talent-wise. I think it's going to be really fun to be around him for a long, long time.”

His love for the young Squad didn’t end there, as Buckley praised Harry Giles III as well, stating: “Giles is the best freshman no one is talking about; his per-36-minute line includes 17.9 points, 9.7 rebounds and 3.7 assists.”

One of the highlighted “quirks” of the squad Buckley noticed, is that Sacramento boasts a mixture of “young” players that are several years older than the two previously highlighted phenoms.

Harrison Barnes, Buddy Hield and Bogdan Bogdanovic are all 26-years-old, with Willie Cauley-Stein soon to follow into that age range.

However, there was no doubt behind mid-20’s Kings potential, claiming that most of them have experienced more growth than other hoopers their age.

“Hield bends defenses the way few snipers can,” Buckley states. “Bogdanovic functions as a hoops adhesive who does a little of everything.”

To read the complete breakdown of Zach Buckley’s contenders and pretenders, click here.

ESPN Sees Playoff Future for Young Kings →

“He is a stud—driver of the league’s happiest surprise.”

This was just some of the heavy praise for De’Aaron Fox, dished out by ESPN's Zach Lowe in his most recent article.

Lowe had many compliments of No. 5 when it came to his MVP potential as well as the rest of the squad’s bright future.

“The Kings are a refreshing basketball story – a team of guys who fit well, growing together,” Lowe continued.

In his piece, he discussed the prominent success De’Aaron has displayed in only his sophomore year; a shift that is proving that he might be ahead of his time when it comes to playoffs in the next couple seasons.

And Swipa wasn’t the only one who shined in Lowe’s eyes.

“Bagley has exploded over the past two months; he and Harry Giles III have the outlines of an ultra-modern frontline. Buddy Hield and Bogdan Bogdanovic orbit them as shooters, passers and cutters; Hield has been a borderline All-Star this season,” proclaimed Lowe.

"[They are] a superteam, just young. I believe that," Vlade said. "These kids work hard. They have talent. When you have those things, there's no way you're not gonna succeed.”

Coach Joerger can see the stars aligning as well for his young roster, and he believes Fox is one of the key components in their rise.

"We want sustained success so that when we do get in the playoffs – maybe it's not this year, maybe it's not next year – we have the opportunity to harvest 50-win seasons for five years,” Joerger stated.

"Guys want to play with him," Joerger continued on De'Aaron.

Jason March, an assistant who works closely with the Kentucky product followed up by saying, "He is at a different level. He sees plays before they happen. When your point guard can do that in his second year, it's special.”

As for Swipa, he is determined to push himself and the rest of the team forward into next year’s postseason.

"Next year, we should definitely make the playoffs,” Fox said. “What happened here 10 years ago doesn't matter. Everyone feels like we can turn this around."

Hasan Minhaj Will Forever Bleed Purple →

Davis-native Hasan Minaj might not live in the area any longer, but his roots are still very strongly tied to the Sacramento Kings.

When asked how it felt to be back on the West Coast visiting Golden 1 Center for the first time, Minhaj replied, “This is my new home, I grew up in ARCO Arena. So, this is a very beautiful moment for me. This arena is incredible and I’m so proud to be back as a Sacramento fan.”

On his quick trip to Northern California, the “Patriot Act” host was able to bring his family and friends along to take in the game against the Phoenix Suns. He toured the facilities, made a half-court shot, and sat courtside next to owner Vivek Ranadivé, boasting an ear-to-ear smile as they watched the Kings 112-103 win.

Hasan’s love for the city could not be challenged when we asked how he deals with the haters as a celeb rooting for the young Kings. “They don’t know that I’m a pick and stick kind of dude, I have been a fan since 1992,” Minhaj boasted.

“I’m talking about 'The Five’. We had Spud Webb, Mitch Richmond, Wayman Tisdale, Duane Causwell and Lionel Simmons – I’ve been a fan since them. I’m a die-hard Kings fan,” Minhaj continued with unabashed enthusiasm.

He even got to hang with some Sacramento Kings legends – Bobby Jackson, Vlade Divac and Peja Stojakovic – who all gave Hasan a warm welcome to the team’s new Practice Facility and arena.

“I think we have a great squad coming up,” said Minhaj. “I love Fox and I love Bagley. I just really love the energy that we have.”

“My current favorite player on the team is Fox,” Hasan shared. His fandom was prevalent when No. 5 stole the ball in the 4th quarter to return an unforgettable windmill dunk.

Finally, Hasan had a very special message to deliver to all the Laker fans ahead of Sacramento’s Sunday night matchup in L.A.

“I rep in NY and I’m evangelizing. I’m spreading the purple gospel… You guys have no idea how much I love the Kings and if you don’t love the Kings, you don’t love NBA basketball.”

Peja Stojakovic Dives Into His Long Legacy With Kings Central →

“It was definitely at that time, the happiest day of my life.” Peja Stojakovic reminisces.

In the 1996 NBA Draft, the 6'9 Serbian native was the first round 14th overall pick acquired by the Sacramento Kings.

While Peja is still remembered for being a 3-point sharpshooter, it didn't start out that way.

“I remember the first game, it wasn’t a very good game for me. We played San Antonio and I only had 2 points. I shot an air-ball… I might have been a little nervous - all the guys had a lot of fun with that.”

Peja only got better from there, and him and his teammates went on to form one the most legendary Kings teams within the franchise.

Vlade Divac, Doug Christie and Bobby Jackson are all key members of that legendary squad, and Peja claims that their bond hasn’t changed since they were on the hardwood together.

“We have so much love, respect and trust for each other” says Peja.

The unwavering support was seen there when all of his former teammates surrounded him, as the Kings retired No. 16’s jersey in 2014.

“It’s very humbling feeling. I always think about the team though… it wasn’t just a celebration of my accomplishments. I think of all of the great years we had as a team and how close we were of achieving that goal of winning the championship” says Stojakovic.

Switching gears to the up-and-coming young Kings, Stojakovic is proud of the new squad.

“We have a really great group of guys and I think the people of this city recognize that. They see the great group of guys with a lot of talent for the game and they are giving them great support.”

“Everybody [our fans] can see that we have really great product and I think everyone should all be proud of that. Just seeing the young team perform this well, it is promising not only for this year but the years ahead.”

Catch the full interview with Peja and Kayte Christensen-Hunter on Kings Central, here.

Jr. Kings All Girls Clinic X STEM Camp Recap →

It was an empowering day for the young girls in attendance of the Jr. Kings All-Girls Clinic, with numerous inspiring women contributing to the camp’s major success. 

Not one, but two WNBA stars – Danielle Viglione and former Sacramento Monarch Monique Ambers – came out to the clinic to help our young athletes learn some new skills and empower the girls on the court.

Sacramento Kings Assistant Head Coach Bryan Gates was in attendance, as he brought his daughter to participate in the clinic, as well as assist in coaching the others.

The girls gave it their all on the court, and after three hours of techniques and drills there was a well-deserved pizza delivery for all the talented young athletes to enjoy before the STEM Camp begun.

Not only were the girls empowered through basketball, the next generation was also encouraged to be proactive in exploring opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and math.

The STEM Camp was led by Micron Gives, and in the matter of an hour the girls of the STEM Camp had built their own robots with just a few materials.

It was an experience that the girls of the Jr. Kings can reflect on for days to come, and know that they have the ability to make an impact with anything they set their minds to.