Instagram Features

If you’ve ever felt like Instagram is throwing new tools at you faster than you can keep up, you’re not alone. But the good news is, most of them are worth trying, especially if you're running a small business. From Reels to Polls, each feature serves a purpose, and using a mix of them can really help grow your reach and connection.

Here's a breakdown of Instagram's features that are genuinely useful (no dancing required - thank god!).

1. Reels

Reels are short videos that Instagram is currently pushing hard. They get more reach than regular posts, and the algorithm loves them. You don’t have to go viral or do something you don’t feel comfortable doing - just use them to show your product in action, behind the scenes, or answer FAQs.

Bonus: You can add music, text, and trending sounds to make your content more engaging.

2. Stories

Stories are perfect for quick updates, casual behind-the-scenes content, or just chatting to your audience like a real person. Use stickers, polls, questions, and countdowns to make them interactive.

You can also tag other accounts or share their posts to your stories which helps build community and engagement.

3. Story Highlights

Once your stories expire, Highlights let you keep the good ones on your profile permanently. Organise them into themes like "Reviews," "FAQs," "Shop," or "Markets" so people can get to know your business at a glance. And try to update them every once in a while so you can weed out the ones no longer relevant.

4. Instagram Live

Live videos might feel intimidating, but they’re a great way to connect in real time. Use Lives for product launches, Q&As, or casual chats. You can even save them to your feed after. I’ll be honest, I’ve never used this feature myself, but I’ve watched others on Live and they definitely work for small businesses.

5. Collab Posts

When you post with someone else and both your names appear on the post, that’s a Collab post. It shares your content with their audience too, and vice versa. Great for giveaways, partnerships, or sharing customer content.

6. Guides

Guides let you curate posts into scrollable mini blog-style collections. They're great for things like gift guides, product roundups, or tutorials using your content and others you’ve saved.

7. Hashtags and Tags

Use relevant hashtags to get discovered by new people, and tag your location or other accounts when relevant. Instagram still uses this info to figure out who should see your content even if the concept seems a bit outdated. I feel like the use has just evolved.

You don’t have to use every single feature, (I don’t . . . ) but mixing a few into your regular posting routine can really help you show up in more places. Test what works, lean into the ones you enjoy, and don’t be afraid to try something new.