Is Instagram the Next Big Local Business Service?

By Sarah Giometti | Local Marketing

Aug 16
Is Instagram the Next Big Local Business Service

Instagram added a new “Map Search” feature that allows users to find businesses and locations using a map integrated into the app.

Just like with Google Maps, users can use the new Instagram features to search for restaurants, cafes, shops, entertainment venues, and so on.

How Does Map Search work and what can it mean for local businesses?

Let’s dive in!

How Does Instagram’s Map Work

The map was available for quite some time, but with the new update, users can now search and discover businesses in the area that interests them.

Once a user taps on the tagged location of a post or story, they will be presented with a map of the area together with the most prominent businesses.

You can see some information about each business, such as the category, opening hours, and how expensive the venue is, as well as three top images. The images are collected from the business’ newsfeed and come from the second, third, and fourth most liked tagged photos. This way, users can ensure that the pictures they are seeing on the map are actually user-generated and not some perfectly curated branded images.

Once you click on a listing, you can see more information about the business. You will also get the option to call or contact the business.

What Does the New Feature Mean for Local Businesses

The new map is bound to strengthen Instagram’s role as a “search engine.” Recent data shows that more than 40% of young users are using social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok instead of Google to conduct online searches. As such, both social networks and businesses need to adapt to new user behaviors.

Not only do young users prefer social media sites to Google, but they are also looking for authenticity. They prefer and trust user-generated content more than Google’s algorithm and would rather choose a business based on other users’ recommendations.

How Can Local Businesses Leverage the New Instagram Update

While Google Maps is still an important part of your local marketing strategy, it’s important to understand the value that Instagram’s Map Search can bring to your business.

Here’s how you can leverage the new update:

  • Make sure your profile is up to date. Add relevant business information, such as an address, business hours, category, and so on.
  • Post content regularly both in your news feed and in stories.
  • Encourage followers and customers to share their experience. The more user-generated content you get, the higher the chances to be featured on the Map.

Do You Need Help with Your Digital Marketing? We Can Help!

Map Search can be a great opportunity to boost your local business’ visibility and fuel your growth. Of course, that takes consistent work and time.

If you are finding it hard to keep up with all the latest changes and updates in the digital marketing realm, then Provaro Marketing is here to help you. We can first run a free local SEO audit to check the health of your local marketing and start from there.

If you want to find out more, get in touch with us online, or give us a call today at 707-595-7002!

Related Articles:
What Are Local Search Services for Small Businesses?
How to Add Services to Your Google Business Profile
What Is the Benefit of Local SEO With GMB Optimization?
GMB Is Now Google Business Profile: What Does This Mean for Local Businesses
How to Get More 5-Star Google Reviews For Your Local Business

About the Author