The coveted blue checkmark on Instagram profiles – all the brands want it, but it has been unattainable for a very long time. Why do they matter? Because Instagram badges verify the authenticity of brands and provide an opportunity for increased visibility and credibility. Having a verification badge means that Instagram has confirmed the authenticity of your account to let users know they can trust your account and that it is represented by the person or brand claiming ownership. It can also get you on the top of search results and expands your visibility! Therefore, getting verified can definitely help you gain more traction on Instagram and improve your digital branding efforts.
Well, the time has come! Instagram is now allowing profiles to apply for Instagram verification. We are here today to give you the steps you need to apply!
What to do first
Keep in mind that Instagram is opening the verification application process up, but the actual requirements for verification haven’t changed (i.e. “large following, notable public figure/blogger, celebrity, global brand or entity”). Submitting a request for verification does not guarantee that your account will be verified.
If you do not have a larger audience, you may want to work on building it first. While Instagram does not tell us what their magic number is regarding follower count, you can still work on building engagement. Engagement will increase your following but it may also give you an advantage as a smaller account.
Some tips to increasing your Instagram following and engagement: Post frequently and work on the photo quality in your daily uploads (make sure you IG board tells a story), use hashtags to get found by others and always include a call to action (engagement question or action step for the reader to perform). Believe it or not, Instagram sometimes prefers smaller accounts with lots of engagement. For example – a small account (1,500 followers) with 50 comments and 120 likes on a photo is actually better than having an account with 200k and 100 comments/300 likes. The percentage of engagement matters. Work on adding calls to action and conversating with your followers and it will grow!
Engagement is a factor considered by Instagram for verification – so, get the conversation started with your followers and encourage engagement with your posts.
How to apply
The application process is super easy, once you are ready, simply log in to your Instagram account and do the following:
Click on your “settings”
Click on request verification under the options tab
Enter your information and upload the requested files (ID, business documents etc)
And that’s it! You are done.
Remember – Instagram verifications are highly sought after! If you don’t get approved, don’t despair. Work on building your Instagram following and engagement as stated above, create GREAT content and try again at a later time. The benefits of having a verified account are worth it for your brand!
Have you applied for your verification yet? Let us know in the comments below!