Snapchat and Instagram launched around the same time in 2010-2011. But these two photo and video-sharing platforms have a very different feel. In this guide, we’ll compare Snapchat vs Instagram so you can decide which one makes sense for your business.
How to Use Snapchat for Business
Yes, you can make a business account on Snapchat. Simply set up a regular account to get started. This lets you make a business-specific account and access the Snapchat ads manager.
Snapchat photos are temporary – They only last 24 hours. For this reason, Snapchat has a bit of a reputation for being secretive. But in reality, you can use Snapchat for anything you like – even running a serious business. In fact, a ton of successful brands use Snapchat. Fashion brand Shein, dating app Bumble, Mcdonald’s, and even Amazon has an account.
This platform opens up opportunities to have fun and connect with potential customers. This is especially true if your target audience skews young. Roughly half of the users on this social channel are under 25 years old, so we’re primarily working with Gen Z here.
There are pretty much two things for brands to do on Snapchat: post and advertise. E-commerce businesses post about new products, while service-based businesses share day-to-day operations. Snapchat has a reputation for being more youthful and off-the-cuff. For this reason, brands use it to experiment, entertain, and run challenges.
Businesses can use Snapchat to:
- Share photos and footage from events
- Build hype around a new product or series
- Tell mini-stories and share brand values
- Run Snapchat-exclusive contests
- Share behind-the-scenes content
- Create polls and get your audience’s opinion
Snapchat was originally created for individual messaging, but it has come a long way. Now, businesses can post chronological stories, shoot live videos, create avatars, and more.
Last but not least, targeted advertising. Brands can produce traditional ads and use branded lenses and Snapchat geotags to improve their marketing. If you’ve advertised on other social platforms, creating a Snapchat ad will be simple. You can generate leads, drive conversions, and promote yourself locally.
You can add a business location to Snapchat by clicking the top corner menu. Then go down to ‘My Locations.’ From this area, you can add and remove business addresses.
How to Use Instagram for Business
If you’re comparing Snapchat vs Instagram, you’re probably already aware of the glaring differences. Snapchat is immediate and unfiltered. Instagram is more like a curated art gallery. Launched in 2010, Instagram now rivals social media giants like Facebook and Twitter. With over a billion users, it has become a go-to platform for many marketers. Some businesses even operate solely through Instagram.
There are several obvious benefits to Instagram for marketing and business. Users can integrate it with Facebook, use hashtags to reach new markets, boost posts, and run ads. Snapchat was created with present-moment interaction in mind. Instagram generally moves slower. Users can pin posts to the top of their profiles, and your audience can watch IG live replays anytime.
You can use Instagram stories to engage your current followers. Instagram reels are best for reaching new people. If you’re wondering how to use Instagram reels for business, it’s a lot like advertising. You want to post content that is simple, clear, and easily understood by a newcomer. If you’re new, this is how to introduce your business on Instagram. But you’ll also need a strong hook – something that entices new visitors to click and learn more.
If you’re looking for proven Instagram strategies, try collaborating with other brands. Avoid posting generic content just for the sake of posting. A weekly content calendar can provide a guideline so you don’t need to start from scratch each week.
Businesses can use Instagram to:
- Cultivate your brand aesthetic
- Use stories to garner personal messages
- Host live Q&As
- Create a series on IGTV
- Capitalize on carousel posts
- Increase reach with the right hashtags
Adding your business location on Instagram is pretty straightforward. Go to your profile and tap Edit Profile. You’ll see a Contact Options section if you have a business account. Simply add your business address/addresses there.
Contrary to popular belief, you can add music to Instagram reels with a business account. If you go in and edit your profile settings, you can gain access to reel music. Simply change the category of your Instagram account to “entrepreneur.”
Snapchat vs Instagram: What’s the Verdict?
Overall, both platforms are effective for generating audience engagement online. You can use either to build trust and solidify a brand identity that stands the test of time. But if you want feature versatility and a wider demographic, it’s Instagam for the win.
