Last Updated on June 19, 2023 by Jerome Donovan
It might look quite easy to make friends on Instagram fast but you want to be careful not to engage with the bad ones. A friendship with an Instagram user is more than just following people and having random conversations — that rarely leads to genuine connections. It’s time to try something different and break free from these ineffective approaches.
In this article, we’ll introduce you to an innovative approach that goes beyond the usual advice. We’ll explore proven techniques that emphasize forming authentic connections and networking with intention. It’s about focusing on quality rather than quantity, which will help you build deeper connections and make friends faster.
Is Instagram good for making friends?
Instagram is a great platform for making friends. It’s quite addictive and has an endless stream of engaging content to keep you glued for hours on end. Even if you’re the shy type, so far you’re ‘behind the screen’, you’d catch the extroverted ‘cool and fun to be with’ vibe that will get you friends in no time. But it’s also quite easy to get lost amidst all of the ‘stuff’ on there.
Nonetheless, we’d tell you this- Go forth, sign up, follow people whose content you enjoy, message people, and post when you feel like it. But don’t forget it’s social media, not a social life.
And don’t get too addicted or begin to develop feelings of inferiority complex simply because someone has more followers, likes, or shares more than you do.
Lastly, you need to remember that social media is just an illusion. This way you don’t set unrealistic expectations for yourself because hyperactive people on social media are the most visible and you think you’re supposed to be like them. Trust us, that’s not how regular people behave.
How to get friends on Instagram fast
Getting friends on Instagram fast can be pretty easy (but not a walk in the park), just read up and you’d be done in no time:
1. Work on your profile
Your Instagram profile is the first thing people see when they visit your page. Make sure it’s inviting and gives a clear idea of who you are and what you’re interested in. Use a clear profile picture, write a compelling bio, and make sure your posts reflect your personality and interests.
If you’re comfortable with it, consider making your account public so that potential friends can see your content and get to know you better.
2. Engage with people with similar interests
Engagement is key on Instagram, even if you’re getting in touch with international Instagram users. Start by following accounts that align with your interests. If you love photography, follow photographers. If you’re into fitness, follow fitness enthusiasts and trainers. Once you’ve followed them, engage with their content. Like their posts, leave thoughtful comments, and share their content on your stories. This will not only make you visible to them but also to their followers who share similar interests.
3. Use Instagram Stories
Instagram Stories are a great way to show your daily life and personality. Share snippets of your day, your thoughts, or anything you find interesting.
You can also use features like polls, questions, and quizzes to interact with your followers and encourage them to engage with you. This can spark conversations and help you get friends on Instagram fast.
Remember, an Instagram story only lasts 24 hours. After posting, check your notifications regularly to see who responded to your story. And make sure to ask interesting questions to encourage people to engage with you.
4. Join Instagram communities
There are numerous communities on Instagram, from book clubs and fitness groups to art collectives and travel communities. Find communities that align with your interests and become an active member.
Participate in discussions, join live sessions, and engage with other community members. This can help you meet like-minded people and make friends with rich people.
5. Use relevant hashtags for a higher reach
Hashtags are a powerful tool on Instagram. They can help your content reach a wider audience. Use hashtags that are relevant to your content and interests.
For instance, if you’re posting a book review, you might use hashtags like #bookstagram or #bookreview. People who are interested in these topics are likely to come across your post, and if they find your content interesting, they might follow you and engage with you.
6. Stay authentic no matter what
Authenticity goes a long way on social media. Be yourself and share your true interests and passions. People appreciate authenticity and are more likely to connect with you if they feel you’re genuine.
Don’t try to portray a perfect life or pretend to be someone you’re not in an attempt to get friends on Instagram fast. Remember, the goal is to make real friends, not just to gain followers.
7. Directly message those you’ve made friends with
Don’t be afraid to slide into people’s DMs. If you find someone interesting, send them a message. Start by appreciating their content or discussing a common interest. Keep your message respectful and friendly. Not everyone might respond, but some will and this can be the start of a new friendship.
Do’s
- Approach potential friends with a warm and real attitude. Show interest in getting to know them and be friendly in your conversations.
- Take the time to make your messages personal instead of using generic templates. Mention something specific from their profile or recent posts to show that you’re interested in them as an individual.
- Begin conversations by talking about things you both like or have in common. It helps create a connection and encourages more conversation.
- Ask open-ended questions: Instead of yes or no questions, ask questions that require more detailed answers. This helps the other person share more about themselves and keeps the conversation going.
Don’ts:
- Avoid sensitive topics. Stay away from controversial or sensitive subjects that could cause conflicts or discomfort. Keep the conversation positive and light.
- Don’t rush the friendship. Building a real friendship takes time. Don’t try to become close friends too quickly. Let the relationship grow naturally at a comfortable pace for both of you.
- Avoid spamming or sending irrelevant content. Don’t use direct messaging to spam or send things that aren’t relevant to the conversation. Focus on building a genuine connection instead.
8. Consider collaboration with others
Collaborations can help you reach a wider Instagram audience and make new friends faster. Collaborate in many ways such as hosting a joint live session, starting a challenge, or creating a shared post or story. Choose to collaborate with people who have similar interests and followers.
You could even participate in challenges and contests. Besides, Instagram is known for its various challenges and contests. Participating in these can increase your visibility and help you get friends on Instagram fast. Whether it’s a dance challenge, a photo challenge, or a contest hosted by a brand or influencer, these activities can be fun on their own.
10. Stay consistent until you reach the friendship goal
Instagram consistency here means you have to post regularly and engage with others often. This practice will keep you on top of people’s feeds and minds.
However, remember that quality is more important than quantity. It’s even okay to post less frequently but share high-quality content than to post every day but compromise on the quality.
While making these posts, be respectful to others, irrespective of their views. Respect is fundamental in any interaction, including on Instagram. Respect others’ opinions, be kind in your comments, and avoid any form of online bullying. A respectful attitude will make others more likely to engage with you and become your friend. You can also refer to Instagram community guidelines FAQs for more enlightenment.
12. Go Instagram Live and IGTV
Instagram Live and IGTV are great platforms for longer content you wish to share to get more friends. Consider hosting Q&A sessions, tutorials, or discussions on topics you’re passionate about to attract people who are interested in these topics. Of course, it’d give you a chance to interact with your followers in real time.
Instagram Meetups can also be the perfect way forward. These meetups are often hosted in various cities where users can meet in person and network.
Final thoughts—get friends on Instagram fast
Making friends on Instagram or anywhere shouldn’t taxing if you set your mind to it. All you have to do is to push a few buttons on your Instagram app and you should be fine. Nonetheless, it’s normal to feel frustrated if things don’t work out the way you expect. Just take a breath, and relax. You’ll most surely come across those who want to be friends with you too.
