Tips for Authentic Instagram Growth

After a bit of a break from “Ask Me Anything” on my Instagram Stories, I finally brought it back mid-October, and the questions poured in! Each one was solid, but there was one that hit me right in my creative heart and got me thinking. Someone asked for tips on growing on Instagram, so let’s get into it.

First Things First: Focus on What Really Matters

If growth is your main goal, you’re already off track. I know that sounds strange, but hear me out! Instead of obsessing over followers and metrics, shift your focus to creating valuable content — the kind that genuinely helps people or resonates with them. When your content is valuable, growth happens naturally.

So what does “valuable content” actually mean? It’s content that serves or inspires your audience. For me, that looks like sharing engraving tips, talking about my favorite tools and supplies, and even recommending ways to photograph or film projects to make them pop. Think about what you know that could make someone else’s journey a bit smoother, and share it. By offering something practical, you’re positioning yourself as a resource, and people are far more likely to return to your profile (and share it with others!) when they know you have insights they can learn from.

Avoid the “Follow for Follow” Trap

One of the quickest ways people try to grow their numbers is by doing “follow for follow,” but honestly, it’s a trap. Sure, it might boost your follower count at first, but that’s all you’re getting — numbers. Without genuine engagement, those followers aren’t interacting with your content, which can actually hurt your account overall. Instagram’s algorithm thrives on engagement. So, if you have tons of followers who aren’t interested or invested, it signals to Instagram that your content isn’t resonating, and your reach can drop. Focus on building real connections with people who genuinely care about your work. That’s the kind of community that grows over time and actually engages with what you share.

Create with Connection in Mind

You’re not just here to sell; you’re here to tell a story, to connect, to inspire. If every post is a sales pitch, people are going to tune out fast. Yes, we’re all running businesses, and sales matter. But no one wants to feel like they’re just another potential customer to you. So, use your captions to share your journey, talk about the “why” behind what you do, and get real with people.

And here’s the thing about sharing openly: I’m way more drawn to creators who give me real insights — who share tips, hacks, and even the details of their creative process. I love learning new things, and I’m way more likely to follow creators who teach me something! That kind of openness also resonates with your ideal clients, the ones who appreciate the one-of-a-kind pieces crafted by an artisan. When you’re genuine, people sense that and are naturally drawn to it. And on the flip side, if you’re being superficial or “performing” for the algorithm, that’s going to show, too.

Connect & Inspire

I love connecting with creatives, and one way I do so is through hosting an “Ask Me Anything” in Instagram Stories. It’s fulfilling because through answering questions and sharing insights, I naturally reflect more deeply on a broad range of topics related to calligraphy, engraving, content creation, and more!

Mix It Up to Keep Things Fresh

Variety is your best friend on Instagram. Don’t box yourself into just one type of post! Mix it up with reels, carousels, single-photo posts, and stories. And for the cherry on top, invite questions. Make your audience part of the conversation — then, actually engage with them. People love to feel heard and included, and that’s what builds a loyal, engaged audience over time.

Post Just Because (It’s Okay to Have Fun with It!)

Sometimes, I think we overcomplicate things by feeling like every single post has to have a purpose, a story, or a pitch. Honestly, there’s nothing wrong with posting just to post! If you’re excited about how a project turned out or maybe just love the way you photographed it, share it. You don’t need to add some elaborate story or purpose. A simple “I’m really happy with how this came out” is enough. Instagram is a visual platform, and sometimes a beautiful image doesn’t need a backstory — people can simply enjoy it!

Get Out There and Engage (with Purpose)

When it comes to engaging with other creators, don’t limit yourself to just those in your niche. Connect with people who inspire you in all kinds of ways — whether or not they’re in your field. But here’s the catch: don’t do it for clout. Be real, be supportive, and leave thoughtful comments because you want to, not because you expect something in return. Trust me, the right people will notice, and you’ll build a community that’s authentic, not transactional.

Show Up as You — Even If It’s Uncomfortable

Finally, show your face! And trust me, I know how uncomfortable that can be, especially if you’re camera-shy like I am. The first time I put myself out there, it felt like ripping off a bandaid. I even wrote about it in the caption, sharing my hesitation, and it turned out, I wasn’t alone. Plenty of people struggle with that same hurdle, and by opening up about it, I formed new connections and maybe even inspired someone else to step out from behind the camera. Vulnerability like that is a powerful tool for growth — both online and personally. It brings people closer, and that’s where the real magic of social media happens.

The Artist Behind the Art

Don’t underestimate the power of showing up as you! Sharing your face adds a personal touch that words and artwork alone can’t capture, helping your audience feel connected to the artist behind the creations.

So, to wrap it up: don’t chase growth, chase connection. Share with purpose (and sometimes just for fun!), engage meaningfully, and let your audience see who you are. Growth will follow, but it’ll be the kind of growth that’s grounded in real community, not just numbers. And just remember, meaningful growth takes time. Don’t get discouraged if it feels slow — stay focused on creating, connecting, and enjoying the process. Your ideal audience will find you.