How To Choose the Best Type of Instagram Profile
By: Fab Giovanetti
Tags: Content Marketing, Instagram, Startup, Social Media, Marketing

Creator Profile

This type of profile was specifically created for Instagram influencers.

Although the creator profile shares many of the same features as the Instagram business profile, there are several key differences. For example, users will have access to flexible profile controls, simplified messaging, and more growth tools.

Instagram product manager, Ashley Yuki, reiterated how important influencers are to the platform in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter stating, “[creators are] an important part of our community… We want to make sure that Instagram is the best place, and the easiest place, to build fan communities and also build [their] personal brands.”

Setting up as a creator profile is still a bit unclear compared to business profiles. As we can see from the screenshot provided by @wongmjane, creator profiles are much more specific than business ones.

One of the main perks of creator profiles is the new and improved creator dashboard.

Credits: Instagram Creator Studio

While many of these analytics are currently offered within the Instagram business profile, the new Creator Studio dashboard will make it easier for users to access their metrics directly from their desktop, as well as posting and scheduling directly via Instagram (and IGTV).

Better follower insights

One of the main perks of these analytics is the access to follow/unfollow data, which will make it easier than ever for influencers to see exactly what content is resonating (or isn’t) with their followers (something that will probably mean most third-party apps currently providing this service will cease to exist).

Another interesting feature involves your DMs and their filtering options.

With more DM filtering options, the creator profile inbox allows you to prioritize messages from brands and friends, or rank them by relevance or time to make sure they never miss an important request.

While the new simplified messaging tools will give influencers control over their inbox, it may make it more difficult for brands looking to collaborate.

It’ll be more important than ever for businesses to make genuine connections with their influencer partners so their messages aren’t missed among the masses — or using a platform to help you engage in better relationships with brands and collaborators.

Shoppable posts for creators

Instagram announced a new way for influencers to connect with their followers: Shoppable posts for creators.

Credits: Instagram Press

In a blog post about the new feature, Instagram wrote: “Instead of taking a screenshot or asking for product details in comments or Direct, you can simply tap to see exactly what your favourite creators are wearing and buy it on the spot.”

Users can shop directly from a creator’s account without ever leaving Instagram. With the ability to tag products in their posts, creators can make it easy for their followers to shop their favourites directly from their feed.

“From public figures and artists to entrepreneurs and publishers, creators are a cornerstone of the community on Instagram. They give you that spark of inspiration for a new skin care routine or that perfect denim jacket. And unlike seeing a jacket on a rack, it’s easier to relate when you see how it fits and moves on someone you admire.”

Verdict

The Instagram creator profile is the newest kid on the block, and it still lacks the clarity of purpose compared to the business profile. It lacks advertising options, as well as integration with some scheduling systems.

I believe in the future Instagram creator accounts could be a big game-changer for influencers on the platform — yet it’s all still to be seen.