10 tips to grow your Instagram followers in 2026

Growing on Instagram is not luck, it is a set of good habits. Here are 10 practical tips you can apply today.

1. Optimise your bio

Say clearly who you are and what you offer, and add one clear link. Your bio is the first thing visitors read.

2. Post Reels regularly

Reels are the strongest way to reach new people. Aim for 3 to 5 videos per week.

3. The first 3 seconds are everything

Open with a sentence or image that grabs attention immediately, or viewers will scroll away.

4. Use trending audio

Trending sounds help the algorithm show your video to a bigger audience.

5. Post at the right time

Check your Insights and post when your audience is most active.

6. Engage with your audience

Reply to comments and messages in the first hour after posting. It boosts the reach of the post.

7. Use Stories every day

Polls and question stickers build a stronger relationship with your followers.

8. Collaborate with other accounts

The Collab feature publishes content on two accounts at once and doubles the reach.

9. Smart hashtags

Pick 3 to 8 hashtags close to your topic instead of very generic ones.

10. Give your posts a first push

New accounts struggle to get seen. A small boost of likes or views sends a first signal to the algorithm. Choose services with Refill and start with small quantities.