Instagram Guides, Explained
One of Instagram’s newer features is also one of its most underutilized. We’re breaking down the basics of Instagram Guides.
The debut of Instagram Guides went under the radar for most. When they were first introduced to a select number of wellness-focused accounts in May of 2020, the world had more pressing matters, understandably. By the time Guides became a feature that all users could access in November 2020, other, flashier features like Reels and the revamped Shops tab captured the headlines instead, leaving Instagram Guides an unexplored feature for most.
We see Instagram Guides as an exciting way to make the most of your brand’s Instagram profile. In fact, we use it across both Lytehouse and Socialyte to highlight the brands and influencers we work with.
Let’s break down the basics of Instagram Guides so you can understand why they could be a big part of your next Instagram marketing initiative.
What Are Guides?
Guides are a way to share content, locations, and products as a collection. You can think of them as mini blogs or catalogues that are accessible directly on Instagram.
There are 3 types of Guides you can create:
Places - Ideal for local recommendations and travel guides
Products - To share product recommendations or curate catalogues using items available on Instagram Shops
Posts - Can share either posts from your own profile or posts that you’ve saved from other creators
How Do I Create A Guide?
To create a Guide, click the “Create” button on Instagram (that little Plus sign in the top right corner) and select “Guide”. You will then be prompted to select one of the 3 Guide types (Places, Products, or Posts). From there, you’ll be able to add entries to your Guide.
For Places and Products Guides, you can add saved places or products or search for ones you’re thinking of. You also have the option to add in saved photos, either from your own profile or from other creators, to accompany each listed place or product.
For Posts Guides, you’ll have the option to add saved posts or posts from your profile.
Once you’ve added in your entries, you’ll need to select a cover image, title your Guide, as well as each entry. You also have the option to add a Guide description as well as captions beneath each entry, if desired.
You can save Guides as a draft if needed. Once you’re satisfied with your Guide, press “Publish” and the Guide will appear as a tab under your Instagram profile (with a map icon).
How Many Posts Can Be Added To A Guide?
Guides currently allow up to 30 entries per Guide.
What Types Of Posts Can Be Added To A Guide?
If you can save it, you can add it to a Guide!
In-feed posts, Reels, IGTV videos, products, and places can all be added to Guides.
How Can Guides Be Shared?
One issue with Guides is that, currently, you cannot share them to your main “feed”; instead they live under their own tab on a user’s profile. Because of that, they’re not as visible as other post types, but there are ways to share them.
Guides can be shared to your Story or sent via Direct Message to accounts. You can also share a link to your Guide and share across different websites or messaging platforms that way.
Now that you have the basics of Instagram Guides down, read this post for some ideas on how to incorporate Guides into your brand’s channel or next Instagram marketing campaign.
Have more questions about Instagram Guides or anything else social media? Let’s chat.