How to Sell on Instagram: Proven Strategies + Examples

Instagram has moved a lot beyond being merely a picture sharing app; it’s now also an engine of e-commerce where businesses reach and sell directly to millions of engaged users.

With more than 130 million people tapping on shopping posts each month and over 2 billion active users each month, this social media platform has become a great opportunity for any brand to show their products, speak to clients, and strongly drive sales.

Whether you’re a small business owner, an e-commerce brand, or an entrepreneur leveraging these features embedded in Instagram, such as shoppable posts and influencer marketing, it can seriously be a game-changer for your revenue.

The presence on Instagram will not suffice; rather, a strategy for conversion of followers into customers must be in place.

This guide will teach you to sell on Instagram, from setting up your shop and optimizing your profile to creating high-converting content and running ads on Instagram.

By the end of this guide, you shall own a stepwise plan for maximizing your sales and building the business on the world’s strongest social commerce platform.

Why Sell on Instagram?

The transformation of Instagram has granted businesses unmatched opportunities to showcase products and drive sales across the platform. Since its beginnings as an app solely for photo-sharing, Instagram has grown for businesses into a powerful ecommerce platform.

With a design that emphasizes visuals and advanced shopping features, the platform now serves as a perfect marketplace for brands to reach a vast and engaged audience.

Instagram’s Influence on Shopping Behavior

The eventual integration of shopping functions into Instagram has dramatically changed the shopping behavior of this audience:

Visual Inspiration Leading to Purchases: While Images are King, the platform stands out for allowing brands to showcase their products in intriguing ways so that users can be inspired to buy via the app.
Influencer Impact: Influencer marketing is now one of the most effective marketing strategies. Notably, 63% of shoppers feel much more inclined to purchase a product being advertised by a trustworthy social media influencer with a good amount of following.
Integrated Shopping Experience: With product tags, Shop tab, and in-app checkout, shopping is super-easy with little friction for users.

Statistics on Instagram-Driven Purchases

Recent data underscores Instagram’s growing role in social commerce:

Purchase Activity: Over 29 percent of users make direct purchases on Instagram, making it the third most frequented social media app for shopping. (Sprout Social)
Influence on Buying Decisions: A whopping 72% of users claim to make their purchase decisions based on what they see on Instagram, while 54% have gone ahead with the purchase of a product after viewing it on Instagram. (Cropink)
Sales Growth for Businesses: A study by Dream Local Digital claims that companies using Instagram shopping features reportedly saw sales growth of 42%, thereby confirming the effectiveness of Instagram in generating revenue.
Consumer Spending: With 8.7% of shoppers having spent $700 or more within the last year, this percentage is higher than that on other social media. (EMARKETER)

These insights demonstrate that Instagram provides not just product discovery but significant consumer purchase motivation-making it an essential place for businesses hoping to expand their e-commerce presence.

How to Set up an Instagram Shop?

Establishing an Instagram Shop allows businesses to showcase and sell products directly through the platform, creating a better shopping experience for users.

Below is a thorough step-by-step guide to setting up your Instagram Shop, considering the latest information and best practices by March 2025.

Step 1: Switch to a Business or Creator Account

To access Instagram’s commercial features, your account must be set to a Business or Creator profile:

Access Account Settings

Open the Instagram app and navigate to your profile. Tap the three horizontal lines (hamburger menu) in the top-right corner and select “Settings.”

Switch Account Type

Tap on “Account” and select “Switch to Professional Account”. Depending on your needs, choose either “Business” or “Creator”. Follow the prompts without skipping any information, providing the details needed for your business.

A Business account offers access to analytics, advertising tools, and shopping features, while a Creator account is tailored for public figures, content producers, artists, and influencers.

Step 2: Connect to a Facebook Business Page

Connecting your Instagram account with a Facebook Business Page is important for shop and product catalog management. Ensure you have a Facebook Business Page; if not, create a new page on Facebook.

Navigate to Instagram, click on “Settings” > “Business” > “Connect a Facebook Page.” Select the page you want to connect, or create a new one.

Make sure you have admin access to the Facebook page to link successfully. This makes everything easier between your product catalog and Instagram Shop.

Step 3: Meet Instagram’s Commerce Eligibility Requirements

Ensure compliance with Instagram commerce policies before starting your Instagram shop:

Compliance with Policies: Agree to Facebook’s Terms and Conditions, Commercial Terms, and Community Standards.
Goods Offered: Offer physical goods for direct purchase from the seller’s website.
Business Location: Operating in a country that allows Instagram Shopping.
Credibility: Be real with truthful information in the presence of certificates and an exemplary record of good practices.
Fair Information: Provide relevant information regarding price and availability, along with clear returns and refund policies.

Meeting the above conditions increases the chances of approval to exploit Instagram’s shopping features.

Step 4: Upload Product Catalog

Your catalog serves as the base for your Instagram Shop and is the descriptive account of the items that you want to sell:

Use a Catalog Management Method: Add your products either manually through Commerce Manager or use a data feed. You can sync your catalog via Shopify, BigCommerce, and other platforms.

Set up your Catalog: On the Commerce Manager, choose “Catalogs” and then “Create Catalog”. Choose the type of catalog that fits your business – follow instructions to add your products.

A well-organized catalog ensures a smooth shopping experience for customers.

Step 5: Enable Instagram Shopping

Finally, after linking your catalog, Instagram Shopping is ready for activation:

Submit Your Account for Review

Under Settings > Business > Set Up Instagram Shopping, follow the instructions to submit your account for review. It typically takes a few days to get approved.

Activate Shopping Features

Once approved, go to Settings > Business > Shopping and select the product catalog that should be connected to your account.

Tag Products in Your Posts and Stories

While creating a post or story, use the Tag Products function to associate items from your catalog. This allows users to view product descriptions and complete purchases without leaving Instagram.

Enabling these features essentially sends your Instagram profile sky-high as a lively storefront for user engagement, which in turn translates into sales.

How to Optimize Your Instagram Selling Profile?

Instagram profile optimization is important in converting visitors to customers and increasing sales prospects. An Instagram profile that tells your story will make your brand credible while allowing easy interaction for your potential buyers.

Here’s how to refine each component of your Instagram profile:

1. Crafting a Compelling Instagram Bio

Your bio serves as a brief yet powerful introduction to your brand. To make it compelling:

Clearly Define Your Business: A clear definition of what you do ultimately should start the profile. For example, “We offer eco-friendly apparel for the conscious consumer.”

Integrate relevant keywords: Use primary and secondary keywords for enhanced discoverability; for example, if you are a bakery, include terms such as “artisanal bread” or “gluten-free pastries.”

Have a Call-to-Action: instigate a particular response towards action, e.g., “Shop our new collection below” or “Contact us for other custom orders”.

Use Emojis for effect: Emojis can break the monotony of paraphernalia and highlight content but should be used in minimal amounts to enhance professionalism, yet not look stiff.

Keep in mind that you have 150 characters to convince someone, so make every word worth adding.

2. Using a Professional Profile Picture and Branding Elements

Your profile picture is the first visual touchpoint users have with your brand. Here are ways to make the most of it:

Use High-Quality Logo or Image: Your logo should not only be clear and easily recognized but also optimized for the small round shape. In this way, your branding will be sensed and perceived more professionally.

Use Your Cover Profile Picture: Your profile picture should also agree with the way your brand aesthetic looks as far as using color schemes and design components, thus developing a unification of historical visual identity.

Update occasionally: Consistency is vital; however, current campaigns or seasons can be great reasons to refresh this image and keep things interesting.

3. Adding a Clickable Website Link or Linktree for Multiple Links

Instagram renders a solitary frame for a clickable link within the bio, making it very crucial to maximize the space about:

Direct Link to Your Website: An example is a direct link to a page, such as a product catalog or landing page, using the URL. When your main aim is pushing visitors to a page, simply submit that direct URL.

Utilize Linktree or Similar Tools: Use services like Linktree to have all your links shareable from a page that the service creates for you. This is especially beneficial for publicizing different products, blog posts, or other social media channels.

Customize Link Previews: Most Instagrammers access the app through a mobile device so make sure that the page being linked is well optimized for mobile and offers the best user experience.

4. Highlighting Key Information in Instagram Story Highlights

Story Highlights allow you to showcase important content permanently on your profile:

Organize Content into Categories: Create Highlights for FAQs, customer reviews, best-sellers, tutorials, or behind-the-scenes content. This helps users navigate your offerings and find information quickly.

Use Descriptive Titles and Cover Images: Label each Highlight clearly and use cohesive cover images that align with your branding to maintain a professional appearance.

Update Regularly: Keep your Highlights current by adding new stories and removing outdated content to ensure relevance and engagement.

By meticulously optimizing these elements, your Instagram profile can effectively serve as a dynamic storefront, enhancing user engagement and driving sales.

How to Create Content to Sell on Instagram?

Creating high-converting product content on Instagram is essential for transforming viewers into customers. By employing strategic content creation techniques, you can effectively showcase your products and engage your audience. Here’s how to optimize your Instagram content:

1. High-Quality Product Images

Visual appeal is paramount on Instagram. To capture attention:

Use Natural Lighting: Natural light enhances product visibility and color accuracy. Position your setup near a window during daylight hours to achieve soft, diffused lighting.

Select a Clean Background: A simple, uncluttered background ensures the focus remains on your product. Neutral tones or consistent brand colors work best.

Highlight Product Details: Showcase various angles and close-ups to provide a comprehensive view of your product, helping customers make informed decisions.

2. Carousel Posts Showcasing Product Details

Carousel posts allow you to share multiple images or videos in a single post, ideal for:

Demonstrating Product Variations: Display different colors, sizes, or styles to cater to diverse preferences

Telling a Story: Guide your audience through a narrative, such as the product’s journey from creation to completion. Use plenty of Instagram caption ideas to make it creative and impressive.

Providing Tutorials: Offer step-by-step guides on product usage, enhancing user experience, and engagement.

3. Engaging Instagram Reels & Stories

Utilize Instagram’s dynamic features to create interactive content:

Reels: Craft short, engaging videos highlighting product features, usage tips, or creative applications. Moreover, creative Instagram content becomes downloadable or worth-saving for users to be used in the future.

Stories: Share time-limited content like flash sales, behind-the-scenes looks, or quick polls to encourage immediate interaction.

Incorporating these formats can significantly boost visibility and engagement.

4. Behind-the-Scenes Content and Customer Testimonials

Building trust and authenticity is key:

Behind-the-Scenes: Offer glimpses into your production process, team activities, or daily operations to humanize your brand.

Customer Testimonials: Share reviews and stories from satisfied customers to provide social proof and encourage new purchases.

Such content fosters a deeper connection with your audience.

Best Practices for Content Creation

Use Natural Lighting and Clear Backgrounds: Enhances image quality and ensures the product stands out.

Incorporate User-Generated Content (UGC) and Influencer Collaborations: Encourage customers to share their experiences and partner with influencers to expand reach and credibility.

Add Clear Calls to Action (CTAs): To facilitate engagement and conversions, direct your audience with prompts like “Swipe up,” “Shop now,” or “DM for details.”

By implementing these strategies, you can create compelling, high-quality content that not only showcases your products effectively but also drives sales and fosters a loyal community on Instagram.

How to Use Instagram Shopping Features for Selling?

Instagram offers a suite of shopping features that enable businesses to showcase and sell products directly within the app, enhancing the shopping experience for users and boosting sales potential. Here’s a comprehensive guide to utilizing these features effectively:

1. Setting up Instagram Shop

An Instagram Shop serves as a digital storefront, allowing users to browse and purchase products directly from your Instagram profile. To set up and customize your shop:

Access Commerce Manager: Visit Commerce Manager and click on “Get Started.” Choose “Create a Shop” and select Instagram as your sales channel.

Add Business Details: Enter your business information, including name, email, and physical address. Connect your Instagram business account and Facebook Page.

Upload Product Catalog: Create a new catalog or connect an existing one containing your products. Ensure each product listing includes high-quality images, detailed descriptions, and accurate pricing.

Customize Your Shop: Organize products into collections to facilitate browsing. Customize the look and feel to align with your brand identity.

Once set up, users can access your shop by tapping “View Shop” on your profile, providing them with a seamless shopping experience.

2. Shoppable Posts & Stories

Shoppable Posts and Stories allow you to tag products directly in your content, enabling users to tap and view product details effortlessly.

Creating Shoppable Posts

Upload a high-quality image or video showcasing your product. Tap “Tag Products” before posting and select the relevant items from your catalog. Ensure tags are placed strategically to avoid obstructing the visual appeal.

Creating Shoppable Stories

Capture or upload engaging content to your Story. Use the “Product” sticker to tag the featured product. Customize the sticker’s appearance to maintain aesthetic consistency.

By integrating product tags into your posts and stories, you streamline the path to purchase, enhancing user engagement and conversion rates.

3. Instagram Checkout

Instagram Checkout allows users to complete their purchases without leaving the app, providing a seamless transaction experience.

Ensure your business is eligible and located in a supported region. In Commerce Manager, select “Checkout on Instagram” as your preferred checkout method. Provide the necessary business and banking information for payment processing.

With Checkout enabled, users can tap “Add to Bag” on product pages and proceed to purchase directly within Instagram, increasing the likelihood of completed transactions.

4. Product Stickers on Instagram Stories

Product Stickers enhance your Stories by making them interactive and shoppable. When creating a Story, select the “Sticker” icon and choose the “Product” sticker. Tag the relevant product from your catalog.

Position the sticker thoughtfully to complement your content without distraction. These stickers provide a direct link to product details, encouraging spontaneous purchases and boosting engagement.

5. Live Shopping on Instagram

Live Shopping combines the immediacy of live video with the convenience of online shopping, allowing you to showcase products and interact with viewers in real-time.

Ensure your account has access to the Live Shopping feature. Before going live, tag products you plan to feature from your catalog. During the live stream, pin product links to highlight them as you discuss their features and benefits.

Live Shopping fosters a sense of urgency and exclusivity, encouraging immediate purchases and strengthening customer relationships through direct engagement.

How to Use Instagram Ads to Sell?

Leveraging Instagram’s advertising capabilities is essential for businesses aiming to expand their reach and drive sales. Here’s a comprehensive guide to effectively utilizing Instagram Ads:

1. Choosing the Right Types of Instagram Ads for Selling

Instagram offers various ad formats tailored to different marketing objectives. Selecting the appropriate type of social media content is crucial for maximizing engagement and conversions:

Photo Ads: Single high-quality images appearing in users’ feeds. Showcasing individual products or services with compelling visuals.

Video Ads: Short videos (up to 60 seconds) that auto-play in users’ feeds. Demonstrating product features, sharing customer testimonials, or telling a brand story.

Carousel Ads: Multiple images or videos in a single ad, allowing users to swipe through. Highlighting a range of products, showcasing different features, or telling a sequential story.

Collection Ads: A combination of a cover image or video with multiple product images below. Creating an immersive shopping experience, enabling users to browse and purchase products directly within the app.

Story Ads: Full-screen ads appear between users’ Stories. Delivering time-sensitive promotions or engaging content that blends seamlessly with organic Stories.

Reel Ads: Ads are displayed within the Reels section, featuring short, engaging videos. Reaching audiences who engage with short-form video content.

Explore Ads: Ads appear within the Explore tab, where users discover new content. Targeting users actively seeking new brands or products.

Selecting the appropriate ad format aligns your content with user behavior, enhancing the likelihood of engagement and conversion.

2. Setting Goals: Brand Awareness, Traffic, Conversions

Defining clear objectives is fundamental to the success of your Instagram ad campaigns. Common goals include:

Brand Awareness: Increase recognition and recall of your brand among potential customers. For this, you need to monitor reach, impressions, and engagement rates.

Traffic: Drive users to your website, product pages, or other online assets. Click-through rates (CTR) and the number of website visits can help you monitor the progress.

Conversions: Encourage specific actions such as purchases, sign-ups, or downloads. Track conversion rates, cost per conversion, and return on ad spend (ROAS).

Establishing precise goals enables you to tailor your ad content and measure performance effectively.

3. Targeting the Right Audience Using Instagram’s Ad Manager

Instagram’s Ad Manager provides robust targeting options to ensure your ads reach the most relevant audience:

Demographic Targeting: Refine your audience based on age, gender, education, and other demographic factors.

Interest-Based Targeting: Reach users whose interests align with your products or services.

Behavioral Targeting: Target users based on their past interactions, such as purchase behavior or device usage.

Custom Audiences: Engage with users who have previously interacted with your brand, including website visitors or email subscribers.

Lookalike Audiences: Expand your reach by targeting users similar to your existing customers.

Utilizing these targeting options ensures your ads are displayed to individuals most likely to engage with your brand.

4. A/B Testing Creatives and Copy for Better Performance

A/B testing, or split testing, involves comparing two versions of an ad to determine which performs better. To conduct effective A/B tests:

Define Clear Objectives: Establish specific goals for your test, such as increasing click-through rates or conversions.

Select a Single Variable: Test one element at a time (e.g., headline, image, call-to-action) to isolate its impact on performance.

Create Variations: Develop two versions of the ad differing only in the chosen variable.

Allocate Budget and Duration: Run the test for a sufficient period (typically 7-14 days) with an adequate budget to gather meaningful data.

Analyze Results: Evaluate performance metrics to identify the more effective ad variation.

Implement Insights: Apply the findings to optimize your current and future ad campaigns.

Continuous A/B testing allows for data-driven decisions, leading to improved ad performance and higher return on investment.

Partner with eSearch Logix to Start Selling on Instagram

Selling on Instagram is more than just posting product images—it requires a well-thought-out strategy, optimized content, and data-driven ad campaigns. That’s where eSearch Logix, a leading digital marketing company, comes in.

With years of experience in Instagram marketing, eCommerce growth, and performance-driven ad strategies, we help businesses like yours leverage Instagram’s full potential to drive sales and brand visibility.

Why Choose eSearch Logix for Instagram Selling?

Expert Instagram Marketing Strategies: We create customized marketing plans that align with your business goals and industry trends.
Optimized Instagram Shop Setup: Our team ensures that your Instagram Shop is fully optimized, from setting up product catalogs to integrating seamless checkout experiences.
High-Converting Content Creation: We craft engaging product visuals, shoppable posts, and compelling stories that captivate your audience and boost conversions.
Targeted Instagram Ad Campaigns: With data-driven insights and advanced audience targeting, we maximize ad performance to reach potential buyers and increase ROI.
A/B Testing & Performance Analytics: We continuously analyze, test, and refine your Instagram strategy to ensure consistent growth and improved sales outcomes.

With Instagram evolving into a powerful eCommerce platform, now is the best time to take advantage of its vast potential. Partner with eSearch Logix and let our experts turn your Instagram profile into a revenue-generating machine.