Instagram Location Sharing, Maps & Reposting: A Complete Guide

Understanding Instagram Location Sharing: A Comprehensive Guide

Instagram's location sharing feature offers powerful tools for connecting with local audiences, enhancing content discoverability, and providing valuable context to your posts. This guide will delve into the intricacies of using location tags, exploring IG Maps, and mastering reposting strategies to maximize your reach and engagement.

Why is Location Sharing Important on Instagram?

Location sharing isn't just about telling people where you are; it's a strategic element that can significantly impact your Instagram presence. Here's why:

Increased Visibility: Posts with location tags are more likely to be discovered by users searching for content in that specific area.
Enhanced Engagement: Location tags provide context, making your content more relatable and engaging for local audiences.
Business Growth: For businesses, location sharing is crucial for attracting local customers and promoting events or promotions.
Community Building: It helps connect with people who share similar interests or experiences in the same location.
Improved SEO: Location tags contribute to Instagram's internal search algorithm, boosting your chances of appearing in relevant searches.

How to Add a Location to Your Instagram Post

Adding a location to your Instagram post is a straightforward process, whether you're sharing a photo, video, or story.

Adding Location to Posts (Photos and Videos)

Create Your Post: Start by uploading or capturing your photo or video.
Write Your Caption: Add a compelling caption that complements your visual content.
Tag People (Optional): Tag any relevant users in your post.
Add Location: Tap the "Add Location" option. Instagram will suggest nearby locations based on your device's GPS. You can also search for a specific location.
Share Your Post: Once you've selected your location, tap "Share" to publish your post.

Adding Location to Instagram Stories

Create Your Story: Capture a photo or video or upload one from your camera roll.
Access Stickers: Tap the sticker icon at the top of the screen.
Select the Location Sticker: Choose the "Location" sticker from the options.
Search for Location: Type in the location you want to tag.
Customize the Sticker: You can customize the sticker's appearance by tapping on it to change its style.
Place and Resize: Position the sticker on your story and adjust its size as desired.
Share Your Story: Tap "Your Story" to publish it.

Exploring Instagram Maps: Discovering and Engaging Locally

IG Maps (also known as the Instagram Places Search) is a powerful tool for discovering local businesses, attractions, and user-generated content related to specific locations. It allows users to explore areas visually and find relevant information.

How to Use Instagram Maps

Accessing the Map: You can access the map in several ways:
- Tap on a location tag on a post or story.
- Search for a location using the Instagram search bar and then tap the "Places" tab.
Exploring the Map: Once on the map, you'll see tagged locations marked with pins. You can zoom in and out to explore different areas.
Viewing Location Details: Tap on a pin to view details about that location, including recent posts, stories, and contact information (if available for businesses).
Filtering Results: Instagram sometimes offers filtering options to refine your search based on categories like restaurants, hotels, or attractions.

Benefits of Using Instagram Maps for Businesses

Increased Discoverability: Businesses can improve their visibility on IG Maps by encouraging customers to tag their location in their posts and stories.
Local SEO: Optimize your Instagram profile with relevant keywords related to your location and industry to improve your ranking on IG Maps.
Competitive Analysis: Use IG Maps to research your competitors in the area and identify opportunities to differentiate yourself.
Customer Engagement: Respond to comments and mentions related to your location to build relationships with potential customers.
Promoting Events: Use location-based stories and posts to promote local events and attract attendees.

Mastering Instagram Reposting: Sharing User-Generated Content Ethically

Reposting user-generated content (UGC) is a fantastic way to showcase your community, build brand loyalty, and add variety to your Instagram feed. However, it's crucial to do it ethically and respectfully.

Why Repost User-Generated Content?

Authenticity: UGC provides authentic social proof and demonstrates that real people are engaging with your brand or location.
Engagement: Reposting encourages users to create content featuring your brand, leading to increased engagement and reach.
Time-Saving: UGC can help fill your content calendar and reduce the need for creating original content all the time.
Community Building: It fosters a sense of community and encourages users to connect with each other.
Fresh Perspectives: UGC offers diverse perspectives and creative content that you might not have considered otherwise.

Ethical Guidelines for Reposting on Instagram

Always follow these ethical guidelines when reposting content:

Ask for Permission: Before reposting anything, always ask the original creator for their permission. A simple DM is usually sufficient.
Give Credit: Always give prominent credit to the original creator in your caption. Use phrases like "Photo by @username" or "Thanks to @username for sharing!"
Maintain Original Caption (with modifications): When possible, include the original caption with any necessary modifications. This provides context and respects the creator's voice.
Don't Edit Without Permission: Avoid editing the original photo or video without the creator's explicit consent.
Respect Their Wishes: If a creator asks you to remove a repost, comply promptly and politely.

Methods for Reposting on Instagram

Instagram doesn't have a built-in reposting feature for feed posts, so you'll need to use third-party apps or alternative methods.

Using Reposting Apps

Several apps are designed specifically for reposting Instagram content. Popular options include:

Repost for Instagram: This is a widely used app that allows you to repost photos and videos with attribution.
Buffer: While primarily a social media scheduling tool, Buffer also offers reposting functionality.
Later: Another scheduling tool with reposting capabilities.

How to Use a Reposting App:

Download and Install: Download and install your chosen reposting app.
Copy the Post Link: In Instagram, tap the three dots in the upper right corner of the post you want to repost and select "Copy Link."
Open the Reposting App: Open the reposting app and it should automatically detect the copied link.
Customize Attribution: The app will typically add an attribution mark to the post (e.g., a watermark with the original username). You can usually customize the placement and appearance of this mark.
Copy Caption: Copy the original caption from Instagram.
Post to Instagram: Share the reposted photo or video to your Instagram feed, pasting the copied caption.

Using Screenshots (Less Recommended)

While not ideal, you can take a screenshot of a post and crop it to remove any unnecessary elements. This method should only be used if you absolutely cannot use a reposting app, as it reduces the image quality and lacks proper attribution.

If you use a screenshot:

Clearly Credit the Creator: Include a prominent mention of the original creator in your caption.
Apologize for the Low Quality: Acknowledge that the image quality may be lower due to the screenshot method.

Reposting Instagram Stories

Reposting stories is much easier, especially if you're tagged in the original story. If someone tags you in their story, you'll receive a direct message with the option to "Add this to your story."

If you're tagged:

Check Your DMs: Open your direct messages and find the notification from the user who tagged you.
Add to Your Story: Tap the "Add this to your story" button.
Customize (Optional): You can add text, stickers, or other elements to the reposted story.
Share: Share the story to your own story.

If you're not tagged: You can take a screenshot of the story (with permission!) and share it, ensuring you give proper credit.

Strategies for Maximizing Location Sharing and Reposting Efforts

Simply adding location tags and reposting content isn't enough. You need a strategic approach to maximize your efforts.

Location Sharing Strategies

Use Relevant Locations: Choose location tags that are highly relevant to your content. For example, if you're posting about a specific restaurant, tag that restaurant's location.
Tag Broad and Specific Locations: Consider tagging both broad locations (e.g., a city) and specific locations (e.g., a specific park within the city) to reach a wider audience.
Encourage User-Generated Content with Location Tags: Run contests or promotions that encourage users to share content featuring your location tag.
Monitor Location Tags: Keep an eye on posts that use your location tag to see what people are saying about your business or area.
Use Location Stickers Creatively in Stories: Experiment with different sticker styles and placements to make your stories more engaging.

Reposting Strategies

Curate High-Quality Content: Only repost content that is visually appealing and aligns with your brand's aesthetic.
Diversify Your Content: Use reposting to showcase different perspectives and types of content.
Engage with the Original Creator: After reposting, leave a comment on the original creator's post to show your appreciation.
Create a Reposting Schedule: Don't repost too frequently, as it can overwhelm your audience. Develop a schedule that balances reposted content with original content.
Highlight Your Community: Use reposting as a way to celebrate your community and showcase their creativity.

Real-World Examples and Case Studies

Case Study 1: Local Restaurant Using Location Sharing

A local restaurant in Austin, Texas, implemented a strategy of consistently tagging their location in all their posts and stories. They also ran a contest encouraging customers to post photos of their meals using the restaurant's location tag. As a result, their Instagram visibility increased significantly, leading to a noticeable boost in foot traffic and reservations. They also actively monitored their location tag to respond to customer comments and address any concerns.

Case Study 2: Travel Blogger Leveraging Reposting

A travel blogger focused on exploring Southeast Asia used reposting to showcase the beauty of the region through the eyes of local photographers and travelers. They consistently asked for permission before reposting and always gave prominent credit to the original creators. This strategy not only provided them with a steady stream of high-quality content but also helped them build relationships with local influencers and expand their reach.

Advanced Tips and Tricks

Use Geofilters in Stories: If you're at a specific event or location, check if there are any custom geofilters available. These filters can add a fun and creative touch to your stories.
Create Your Own Geofilter: Businesses can create custom geofilters for their location to encourage users to share content featuring their brand.
Track Your Results: Use Instagram Insights to track the performance of your location-tagged posts and reposted content. Pay attention to metrics like reach, engagement, and website clicks to see what's working and what's not.
Stay Updated: Instagram is constantly evolving, so stay updated on the latest features and best practices for location sharing and reposting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Asking for Permission Before Reposting: This is a major ethical violation and can damage your reputation.
Failing to Give Credit: Always give proper credit to the original creator.
Using Irrelevant Location Tags: This can be misleading and frustrate your audience.
Ignoring Comments and Mentions: Engage with your audience and respond to comments and mentions related to your location or reposted content.
Reposting Low-Quality Content: Only repost content that is visually appealing and aligns with your brand.

Conclusion

Mastering Instagram's location sharing features, IG Maps, and reposting strategies is essential for building a strong online presence, engaging with your audience, and achieving your marketing goals. By following the guidelines and strategies outlined in this guide, you can effectively leverage these tools to increase your visibility, build community, and drive results on Instagram. Remember to always prioritize ethical practices and focus on providing value to your audience.