X is for… eXplore

T

The Explore section on Instagram is very useful for building your community and networking. The algorithm highlights the accounts that you should be following. It is completely unique to each user.It shows you want it thinks you would like and what is getting a lot of love and engagement from your peers. Therefore it is full of potential networking connections and opportunities. It helps you to find new communities as well as helping you to build your own network.

As not everyone uses Instagram to network (many people still use it for personal connections only) use the explore function to find potential connections and then send them a message. Be friendly and introduce yourself. Explain why you are reaching out to connect (much like you do with any cold networking approach). BUT remember you have the added benefit of seeing their Instagram profile. This means you probably already have a feel for their style, personality, values etc. Therefore should be able to identify why you should both connect to your mutual advantage and be able to express this when reaching out.