How to Increase Instagram Followers: 25+ Ways to Try in 2025

In 2025, Instagram isn't just a social media app — it's a gateway to building your brand, expanding reach digitally, and even generating revenue streams. Whether you're a student hoping to showcase your skills or a professional looking to establish a personal brand, knowing how to increase Instagram followers can open up opportunities in ways that traditional networking may not.

But the big question is, how to get more followers on Instagram in today’s competitive space? Don’t worry! This blog is packed with 25+ tried-and-true strategies to help you grow your presence, connect with the right audience, and make your Instagram work for you. Let’s get you started!

How to Increase Instagram Followers? 25+ Smart Tips At a Glance

As of 2024, Instagram's user base continues to soar, with over 2 billion monthly active users worldwide, and India has the highest number of users, 385.4 billion. Can you imagine? 

With this massive audience, the platform has become a powerful space for brand discovery — especially for Indian consumers, who increasingly turn to Instagram for recommendations, trends, and trusted reviews. 

Understanding how to increase Instagram followers makes you realize that building a presence on Instagram isn’t just about numbers; it’s about becoming visible in a crowded digital world and creating opportunities. And for that, you can consider enrolling in our Advanced Digital Marketing Course for a start!

Well, now, let’s have a quick look at 25+ innovative strategies to know how to increase Instagram followers in 2025.

1. Optimize Your Bio:

   Make a solid first impression with a clear, catchy bio.

2. Use a Consistent Aesthetic:

   Visual appeal matters; stick to a cohesive theme.

3. Post High-Quality Content:

   Sharp, well-composed visuals attract more attention.

4. Leverage Instagram Stories:

   Stories keep you fresh in your followers' minds.

5. Use Reels for Viral Potential:

   Reels boost visibility and engagement.

6. Master Hashtag Strategy:

   Use a mix of popular and niche hashtags.

7. Post at Peak Times:

   Share content when your audience is most active.

8. Engage with Comments:

   Respond to comments to build a loyal following.

9. Collaborate with Influencers:

   Tap into new audiences through collaborations.

10. Run Contests or Giveaways:

    Generate excitement and attract followers.

11. Write Captivating Captions:

    Tell stories or ask questions to engage readers.

12. Use Instagram Ads:

    Reach targeted audiences with paid promotions.

13. Showcase User-Generated Content:

    Builds community and trust in your brand.

14. Go Live Regularly:

    Engage followers in real-time for stronger connections.

15. Tag Locations in Posts:

    Attract local audiences with location tags.

16. Engage with Other Accounts:

    Like and comment on similar accounts for exposure.

17. Create Save-Worthy Content:

    Educational posts that followers save and share work wonders.

18. Analyze Insights Regularly:

    Use data to refine your strategies.

19. Experiment with New Features:

    Stay updated and use new Instagram tools.

20. Cross-Promote on Other Platforms:

    Drive traffic from other social media sites.

21. Be Consistent:

    Stick to a posting schedule for steady growth.

22. Use Call-to-Actions (CTAs):

    Invite users to like, share, or follow.

23. Post Carousel Content:

    Boosts engagement by encouraging swipe-throughs.

24. Tell Stories in Highlights:

    Highlights keep important content easily accessible.

25. Create Interactive Content:

    Polls, Q&As, and quizzes to boost engagement.

26. Network within Your Niche:

    Build connections in your specific industry.

Got a quick look? Now dive into the heart of it to crack how to get more followers on Instagram! Growing your following isn’t about luck or good content — it’s about intelligent strategies that tap into Instagram’s potential to reach the right audience.  

So, here’s how you can make Instagram work for you in 2025, one strategic move at a time.

1. Optimize Your Bio

Why It Works: Your bio is often the first thing people notice on your profile, so it’s crucial to make a strong first impression. A well-crafted bio tells visitors who you are, what you do, and why they should follow you.

• Example:

  Look at brands like Durex India. Their bio includes playful language that matches their brand tone, a clear call-to-action (CTA), and links to promotions. This simple approach makes them memorable and encourages engagement.

2. Use a Consistent Aesthetic

Why It Works: A cohesive aesthetic makes your feed visually appealing and recognizable. When viewers see a polished and themed look, they’re more likely to follow, expecting high-quality, consistent content.

• Example:

  The Minimalist uses a monochromatic color scheme that immediately stands out. Their brand image becomes instantly recognizable, which strengthens their online identity.

3. Post High-Quality Content

Why It Works: Sharp visuals capture attention. High-quality images and videos look professional and credible, making people more likely to engage and follow.

• Example:

  Canon India shares user-generated photos taken with Canon cameras, ensuring top-notch image quality while showcasing the capability of their products. This inspires other photographers to follow them.

4. Leverage Instagram Stories

Why It Works: Stories are great for frequent, informal updates without clogging up your main feed. They keep you visible daily, which helps build a loyal following.

• Example:

  Swiggy India uses Stories to show behind-the-scenes content, feature fun polls, and give food recommendations, engaging their followers with snackable content.

Also Read: 50 Creative Instagram Story Ideas in 2024 [To Boost Engagement]

5. Use Reels for Viral Potential

Why It Works: Reels reach a broader audience than regular posts, thanks to Instagram’s algorithm prioritizing short videos. They’re ideal for reaching users who don’t follow you yet.

• Example:

  Nish Hair leverages reels for quick hair extension tutorials and product demos. These short videos often go viral, helping them attract new followers who enjoy beauty content.

6. Master Hashtag Strategy

Why It Works:Hashtags make your content searchable. By using a mix of popular and niche hashtags, you reach both broad and specific audiences interested in your content.

• Example:

  Taj Hotels uses specific hashtags like #TajMahalPalace and broader ones like #LuxuryHotels to reach both niche followers and general travel enthusiasts.

Also Read: How to Use Instagram Hashtags to Grow Your Profile – Ultimate Guide

7. Post at Peak Times

Why It Works: Posting when your audience is most active maximizes engagement. More engagement signals to Instagram that your post is valuable, helping it reach even more people.

• Example:

  Many Indian brands post around 6-9 PM IST, when followers are more active, as shown in studies by HubSpot. This timing often results in higher engagement.

Also Read: What is The Best Time to Post on Instagram To Get Maximum Engagement in 2024

8. Engage with Comments

Why It Works: Engaging with your followers builds community and loyalty. People are more likely to follow accounts that make them feel valued and appreciated.

• Example:

  Netflix India often replies to user comments with witty responses, building a fun, interactive atmosphere that makes followers feel seen.

9. Collaborate with Influencers

Why It Works: Influencers bring their own audience, giving you exposure to followers who trust their recommendations. It’s a quick way to expand your reach.

• Example:

  MamaEarth collaborates with popular Indian influencers who showcase the brand’s eco-friendly products, drawing new followers who care about sustainability.

Also Read: 5 Advantages of Collaborating with Influencers for Brand Promotion

10. Run Contests or Giveaways

Why It Works: People love free stuff! Giveaways incentivize users to follow, like, and share your content, which amplifies your reach.

• Example:

  Zomato occasionally runs giveaway contests with exciting prizes, encouraging followers to participate and share, leading to a surge in new followers.

11. Write Captivating Captions

Why It Works: A great caption can make viewers stop scrolling. Storytelling, humor, or asking questions can spark engagement and create a personal connection.

• Example:

  Amul India uses witty and topical captions that resonate with its audience. These captions are often linked to current events, making followers look forward to their posts.

12. Use Instagram Ads

Why It Works: Paid ads reach a targeted audience, helping you connect with potential followers interested in your content.

• Example:

  UrbanClap (now Urban Company) uses ads targeting specific demographics, such as young professionals, to drive traffic and engagement on their Instagram page.

13. Showcase User-Generated Content

Why It Works: User-generated content (UGC) builds trust, as people are more likely to trust posts by real users than branded content alone.

• Example:

  Bira 91 reposts photos of fans enjoying their beer, creating a sense of community and encouraging followers to share their own images. It's fun and creative at the same time, right?

14. Go Live Regularly

Why It Works: Going live allows real-time engagement, making your brand feel more approachable and accessible.

• Example:

  Red Bull and Coca-Cola regularly host live events and interviews with athletes and artists, attracting all categories to follow their page.

15. Tag Locations in Posts

Why It Works: Location tags help you reach local audiences, making it easy for people in the area to discover your content.

• Example:

  Taj Hotels tags each post with the property’s location, making it easy for tourists to find relevant and local content.

16. Engage with Other Accounts

Why It Works: Engaging with similar accounts exposes you to their followers, increasing your chances of gaining followers from shared interests.

• Example:

  OYO Rooms comments on travel and tourism pages, putting their brand in front of potential followers interested in travel.

17. Create Save-Worthy Content

Why It Works: Educational and valuable content prompts people to save posts, signaling to Instagram that your content is high quality.

• Example:

  WhiteHat Jr. shares coding tips and lessons for kids, encouraging parents to save and revisit these posts.

18. Analyze Insights Regularly

Why It Works: Tracking insights allows you to refine your strategy based on what works, helping you improve engagement and follower growth.

• Example:

  Nykaa uses insights to determine which products and topics their audience likes, tailoring future posts accordingly.

You can unlock this skill with us by enrolling in upGrad’s performance marketing courses!

19. Experiment with New Features

Why It Works: Instagram favors accounts that use new features, like the latest video tools, which can boost visibility.

• Example:

  Flipkart was an early adopter of Instagram Reels, which allowed them to reach a broader audience before many brands caught on.

20. Cross-Promote on Other Platforms

Why It Works: Promoting your Instagram on other social channels drives traffic and helps convert followers across platforms.

• Example:

  BeerBiceps shares Instagram links in their YouTube videos and LinkedIn posts, reaching their educational audience across channels.

21. Be Consistent

Why It Works: A regular posting schedule keeps you in followers’ feeds and maintains engagement.

• Example:

  Big Basket consistently posts daily deals and recipes, keeping it relevant to its audience’s everyday needs.

22. Use Call-to-Actions (CTAs)

Why It Works: CTAs prompt followers to take action, whether it’s commenting, sharing, or following.

• Example:

  Amazon India often adds CTAs like "Tell us your favorite" to drive comments and interactions on product posts.

23. Post Carousel Content

Why It Works: Carousels encourage users to swipe through multiple images, increasing engagement and time spent on your post.

• Example:

  Fittr posts fitness routines and nutrition tips in carousels, making them engaging and informative for fitness enthusiasts.

Also Read: Top Instagram Post Ideas for Your Business

24. Tell Stories in Highlights

Why It Works: Highlights allow you to keep important Stories accessible, giving new followers quick access to relevant content.

• Example

  Shoppers Stop uses highlights for categories like “Offers” and “Trending,” making it easy for followers to find the latest deals.

25. Create Interactive Content

Why It Works: Polls, Q&As, and quizzes make your content more engaging, helping build stronger connections with followers.

• Example:

  Amazon Prime Video India uses interactive Q&As to engage fans with questions about upcoming shows, boosting anticipation and engagement.

26. Network within Your Niche

Why It Works: Communication and building relationships within your industry can lead to collaborations and increase your visibility within a targeted community.

• Example:

  UpGrad collaborates with educators and professionals to share career advice, connecting with an audience interested in upskilling. 

There you go, cool and clever strategies described for you. But before we move on, remember that building a strong following on Instagram is more than just using the right strategies—it’s also about avoiding the wrong ones. 

7 Things That Will Hurt Your Following on Instagram

Now that you know how to increase Instagram followers and what you should do about it, let’s flip the script and talk about what you shouldn’t. Just as there are tried-and-true methods to grow your following, a handful of pitfalls can send your follower count spiraling in the wrong direction.

It’s easy to slip up on a fast-moving platform like Instagram, so take a look at some common mistakes that might be holding you back from reaching your potential. 

1. Buying Followers on Instagram

It might be tempting to take a shortcut and buy followers to boost your numbers quickly, but this strategy often backfires. Bought followers are usually fake accounts or bots that won’t engage with your content, making your engagement rate plummet.  

Instead of taking shortcuts, focus on building an engaged community — this approach may take time, but it pays off in long-term growth and authenticity.

2. Posting Off-Brand/Off-Topic Content

Imagine following a travel photography account that suddenly posts memes or random personal updates — it’s disorienting! Followers appreciate a clear focus, and when your content strays from their expectations, they’re more likely to hit “unfollow.” 

Stick to your brand’s core message, style, and themes to keep followers engaged and attract new ones who are genuinely interested in what you offer.

3. Over-Promoting or Being Too Salesy

People go on Instagram to be inspired, entertained, and informed — not to be bombarded by ads. If your content feels like a constant sales pitch, followers may lose interest. 

Instead, strike a balance by mixing promotional posts with valuable, engaging content that shows your personality and brand without pushing for sales.

4. Using Too Many or Irrelevant Hashtags

Hashtags are helpful, but overloading your post with them, especially if unrelated to your content, can make your post look spammy. 

Instagram’s algorithm may even penalize accounts that consistently misuse hashtags, causing your posts to get less reach over time. So, keep your hashtag game strong by sticking to relevant tags in moderation.

5. Posting Low-Quality Content

In a world where visuals are everything, blurry photos, poorly edited videos, or uninspired posts can hurt your credibility. 

Low-quality content can make your profile look unprofessional and unappealing, turning off potential followers who seek engaging and polished visuals. Strive for quality over quantity to keep your feed looking sharp.

6. Ignoring Instagram’s Features and Trends

Instagram is constantly rolling out new features, from reels to interactive stickers in Stories. 

Ignoring these tools can make your account seem outdated. On the other hand, using these features shows that you’re keeping up with trends and willing to experiment, which keeps your audience engaged and excited to see what’s next.

7. Following and Unfollowing for Growth

This “follow-unfollow” tactic — where you follow people just to unfollow them after they follow you — might get you short-term gains, but it can hurt your reputation in the long run. 

Followers can tell when they’re being gamed, and no one wants to feel used. Instead, focus on genuine engagement, and your follower count will grow naturally and sustainably.

Conclusion

Growing your Instagram following in 2025 is both an art and a strategy. Each follower you gain is a connection that, with the right effort, can lead to new opportunities and help you reach your goals. 

Once you understand this, you’re well on understanding how to get more followers on Instagram. So, experiment, engage, and watch your Instagram presence flourish. 

Ready to go beyond Instagram tips and build a social media presence that opens career doors? UpGrad’s specialized courses can equip you with in-demand digital skills that top employers seek. Why wait? Take the first step towards a more robust online brand and career! 

Book a free counseling call with our experts today and discover how to upskill for success. 

Unlock your potential with our best digital marketing courses online—designed to equip you with the skills and strategies needed to excel in today’s digital landscape!

Uncover essential strategies and fresh insights in our most popular digital marketing blogs, crafted to help you succeed in today’s competitive landscape.

Learn the secrets of digital marketing with our free courses—perfect for beginners and pros looking to upskill at zero cost!