Where do you pull inspiration? I’ve been asked Where do you pull inspiration?

I’ve been asked this question a lot recently and I actually made it a topic in my workshop.

Inspiration can come from anywhere.

For me, I love to see what’s going on in other niches outside of my own, such as photography or even menswear.

We’re so consumed by our own feeds or what the algorithm gives us that it’s hard to step outside of our norm with creative enlightenment. 

So if you’re in a pickle and need a change of scenery, take a look at other categories. Everyone has a unique approach or messaging.

Then ask yourself, “how can I make this my own?”
•
•
•
•
•
#orangeoutfit #fashionreel #colorfulfashion #colorstyle #summerfashion2022 #contentcreatortips #nycstreetstyle #nycfashionblogger
⁣How do you view success?⠀ ⠀ To me, it’s s ⁣How do you view success?⠀
⠀
To me, it’s stepping out of my comfort zone and building a life that I once thought was unattainable.⠀
⠀
My wife sent me a podcast this week with @jasminestar and @jennakutcher (two insanely talented entrepreneurs I look up to). The topic was about pivoting. ⠀
⠀
@jennakutcher said something that really stuck with me - it’s not that you need to know where you’re going but what you’re moving away from. ⠀
⠀
Whether you’re just starting out on your side hustle journey, in the process of building it, or at the point of going full time, there will always be moments of pivoting.⠀
⠀
I’ve tried out so many unique side hustles over the last 6 years lol from different forms of YouTube channels to a podcast! Every time something didn’t feel right, I’d let it go and move on to the next. ⠀
⠀
Overnight success is a made up term. Nothing happens overnight or in a month. It takes commitment and trust in yourself. ⠀
⠀
I always say “keep going” to my clients. It took me 6 years to get here (with multiple high and lows in the process).⠀
⠀
So trust the process and enjoy the journey… it’s worth it.⠀
•⠀
•⠀
•⠀
•⠀
•
#parisianvibes #parisianamour #parisianaesthetic #mystylediary #frenchgirlstyle #lesbianstyle #wildsssouls #frenchgirldaily #vintageinspo #lestyleàlafrançaise
100K followers?! Is this real life? A year ago I 100K followers?! Is this real life?

A year ago I was at 16K. 

I launched a new strategy at the beginning of July (I was at 60K) and I said to myself I will get to 70K in 4 weeks - then I ended up at 100K! 

So this was not pure luck, it was strategy. 

Don’t worry (you know I don’t gatekeep!) I will share this strategy soon!

To all my newcomers, I’m so happy you’re here! Here are a few things about me!

1. I’m a social media strategist and thought leader with over 10+ years experience in luxury fashion, beauty, and social media marketing. 

2. Im a member of the LGBTQ+ community and have the most amazing and supportive wife @vicmatthews06 

3. Saved up enough money and left my mentally draining fashion corporate job last April to pursue a dream of becoming my own boss

4. Launched my social media consulting business in June 2021. Since then, I have scaled to workshops and soon to be courses and memberships later this year!

5. I’m here to help small business owners, entrepreneurs, content creators grow their digital presence on social media and create the life they’ve always wanted

6. I live outside of NYC in NJ with my wife and 3 year old pup Nike. we’re finally re-planning our wedding (that was canceled during the pandemic) for summer 2023!

I also offer 1-on-1 services as well and you can find out more details through the link in my bio!

I’m so happy you found my corner of the internet! Get ready to feel inspired and motivated to create!
📸: @megmccstudio 
💄: @spiffysface 
•
•
•
•
•
•
#colorfulfashion #colorfulstyle #lesbianblogger #lgbtqtravelers #gayinfluencer #colorfulmakeup #colorfuleyeshadow #pinterestgirl #orangedress
First try at this classic mirror transition! Which First try at this classic mirror transition! Which vibe is your favorite?

Also, who wants a tutorial on how I created it? If you have a long mirror at home, you can do this!
•
•
•
•
•
#colorfulfashion #colorfulstyle #nycstreetstyle #barbiecore #yellowsuit #barbiestyle
Love creating unique content with my wife 💕 @v Love creating unique content with my wife 💕

@vic.m.photos dusted off her old Polaroid from 2000 and we took it for a spin around NYC’s West Village!

I love her eye for small details. So many things I miss, she stops and takes a photo of it. 

Ever in a creative rut? Spend time with another creative to inspire you ❤️ 
•
•
•
•
•
#polaroids #polaroidcamera #polaroidphotography #contentcreatortips #nycstreetstyle #polaroidoriginals
Another indoor/outdoor transition for you to try! Another indoor/outdoor transition for you to try!

These transitions have become my new go-to! There easy and always have a surprise ending :)

Sometimes it doesn’t have to be complicated and let your surroundings do the work!

Working on a new tutorial this week! Stay tuned xx 
•
•
•
•
•
#contentcreatortips #fashiontransition #clothestransition #colorfulfashion #colorfulstyle #pradashoes #nycstreetstyle #parisianstreetstyle #parisianamour
Which do you prefer - doe or siren? I’ve seen s Which do you prefer - doe or siren?

I’ve seen so many variations using this audio! A lot of “this or that” or “before and after” - they’re all great. 

This sound is currently trending, so think of a comparison scenario that fits within your niche 🙌💕

Need some inspo? Just look at what other creators have posted for this audio!

Makeup details
Eyeliner: @maccosmetics Brushstroke 24hr liner (it’s flawless!)
Foundation: @diorbeauty Forever Skin Glow
Setting powder: @maccosmetics studio fix pressed powder
Bronzer: @anastasiabeverlyhills bronzer palette 
mascara: @milkmakeup rise mascara 
Eyebrows: @anastasiabeverlyhills brow freeze 
Lips: @hudabeauty matte lipstick (shade: Boardroom)
Gloss: @cosmedix_ Lumi crystal liquid gloss
•
•
•
•
•
#beautytrends #beautyreels #makeupreels #makeupreel #makeupbloggers #beautybloggerlife #beautycontent #cateyeliner
More like a Cher Horowitz moment 🛍 I also tol More like a Cher Horowitz moment 🛍 

I also told my wife I’d find a purpose for all our old shopping bags!

📸 & 📹: @megmccstudio 
•
•
•
•
•
#summerfashion2022 #colorfulfashion #colorfulstyle #pastelaesthetic #pinterestgirl #pinterestaesthetic #nycinfluencer #nycfashionblogger #nycstreetstyle
Which outfit do you prefer 💛 or 💜? 

Also I’m so excited that I finally achieved the pole transition! I’ve been wanting to do this for YEARS lol

A lot of folks don’t mention this, but you need an extra hand creating this type of content. 

Full transparency, I had my photographer watch my tripod and made sure it was stable throughout the filming and clothes change. 

So if you want to create this, ask a friend for help! 

Thanks @megmccstudio for the assist!
•
•
•
•
•
#colorfulfashion #colorfulstyle #contentcreatortips #reelsfashion #nycstreetstyle #summerfashion2022 #yellowoutfit
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Mastering Social Media, Uncategorized · August 4, 2020

10 Ways To Increase Engagement Rate On Instagram

Here are ways to increase your engagement rate on instagram in 2020. Based on my experience managing a large luxury brand’s instagram of 1.7M followers as well as my own personal account, I’ve learned what factors truly increase your engagement rate on Instagram. 

Whether you’re a Blogger, Marketer, Brand, or Content Creator, chances are you’ve definitely thought about how to increase engagement to help grow your online business. You’re also probably wondering, where to begin or have tried everything to beat Instagram’s advanced algorithm. Not to worry, I’m here to help you break it down for you to measure up your success!

So let’s begin with what is an engagement rate? Engagement rate is a metric that measures how your audience is involved with your content. This degree is used to analyze the health of your audience and the level of interactions they have with your posts and stories. Below are some important functions on Instagram that make up engagement – they are likes, comments, shares and saves. 

Important Metrics That Make Up Engagement On Instagram:

Likes

Likes are when you tap on a photo and the heart lights up in the lower left corner. It’s a way to express appreciation and engage with someone’s creativity. 

Comments

Comments are messages you receive in your captions. This form of engagement creates unity and community amongst your followers. Try to put time and thought into your captions, as this will influence your followers to respond. I truly believe this is the most valuable form of engagement, as it shows the connection you have with your followers.

Saves

Saves are when someone selects the little badge on the right under your post. This will save your post to their saved folder, so they can access it in the future. Instagram favors saves as well. I see a huge lift in impressions when theres a large amount of saves for a post. Therefore, create inspiring content that’s save worthy.

Shares

Shares are the paper airplane icon that looks like an arrow under your photo. This is when someone shares your post with another person or to their story and is a great indicator of their willingness to be connected with your account. Additionally, this is great advertising for your brand, as someone is organically promoting your profile for you. 

Now Let’s Learn How To Increase Your Engagement Rate On Instagram

1. Engage with Others

When I’m asked how can someone grow their engagement rate, my response is to put in the work that you want to see on your own channel. To increase your engagement rate on instagram, you also need to engage!

Engaging is simply liking, commenting, saves, and sharing. I see a huge lift in accounts viewing my IG page when I engage with others. It’s putting yourself out there to be seen. 

Hint – if you like someone’s content, take the time to read their caption and engage with what they’re writing. This creates a stronger bond between you and the influencer and will entice the influencer to go on your account and engage. 

Moreover, when commenting on other accounts, try to go beyond the basic emoji. You’ll have more eyes on your comment if you put in a little more effort. Essentially, write something that you would want to see on your account.

Finally, don’t be a Lurker. No one likes that. Instagram built this platform for social engagement. To make unique connections with like minded people. So have fun with it and meet new people along the way!

Jimmy Choo Shoes

2. Your Caption Speaks Volumes

In the past, I never put much emphasis in my captions. I felt like the image was enough, why should I waste more time trying to also have a caption behind it? Well, fortunately I didn’t let my stubbornness get the best of me. I started to put more effort into my captions to describe the photo and spoke about personal emotions and achievements. My followers learned more about myself and slowly my comments grew as a response. 

When I brought my personal life into my account, my audience connected with me more and told me what they wanted to hear. I recognized what my audience responded to the most, so I stuck to that messaging and my engagement rate increased.

Swim Female Summer style

3. Actions After You Post Content

After you post on Instagram, engage for at least 20-30 minutes with your followers. This helps get more eyes on your content, beat the algorithm, and increase your engagement rate on Instagram. 

Be aware of the accounts that comment on your content the most, those are the ones to engage with when you post. They are your loyal followers, so they’ll also go to your page to see your recent content. My professional experience has taught me that when your content performs well in the first hour, then Instagram reads it as great content to push out to a bigger audience. 

street style female bottega veneta bag

4. Frequency 

The Facebook team said that it’s not about the time of day you post, but the frequency of your posting. To increase your engagement rate on Instagram, you should focus more on consistency as opposed to the best time.

Therefore, commit to posting every day. This tells Instagram that you’re an authentic account and loyal to your followers. 

Additionally, when you post consistently your followers are aware to engage with your content regularly. So, make it a priority to post everyday to develop a great relationship with your followers and Instagram.

5. IG Stories

IG Stories is a different outlet for you to reach your followers. This is a great platform to test different forms of storytelling that are less edited and more organic. A behind the scenes glimpse of your life, this form of storytelling creates a stronger connection with your audience.

Also, IG Stories are a great way to test different content. Such as interviews, how-to’s, and DIY’s. See how your followers react and learn more about how you can service them.

Through my professional social media experience, I’ve learned that 8 story frames a day is enough to avoid follower fatigue. After 8 frames, I’ve seen a higher exit rate which isn’t great because you want your followers to stay on your channel.  

  • IG Story Beauty
  • Beauty IG story
  • beautiful female

6. Polls and Question Stickers

These are features in IG Stories that truly increase your engagement rate. Additionally, they create a stronger interaction with your followers. 

Polls 

Question polls are Yes/No feature stickers for your IG Stories. Once you create one in your stories, you’re able to monitor the results for 24 hours. It’s very easy to get creative with IG Polls from gathering feedback, educating your followers, or just having fun. 

Emoji slide polls allow your followers more options for feedback. This is a great feature for you to step away from the standard yes or no question and allow for a neutral response. 

Questions 

Question sticker allow you to ask more general, specific questions. This enables you to widen your question possibilities. You can do a basic “Ask me anything,” and give your followers the freedom to learn more about you. 

Polls and questions are a fantastic feature for you to engage with your followers in a more active way. This form of engagement also allows you to learn what they want to see in order for you to better service them. 

How does this help your engagement rate? Instagram can read the involvement your followers have with your account. The more interactions your account has, the more Instagram pushes it out to more followers.

  • IG Story hair mask
  • IG story female sequins

7. Hashtags

Many say that hashtags are not as relevant as they used to be. I 100% disagree. Hashtags are still very relevant and a great way for your account to get notice by new followers. Instagram’s new algorithm only pushes your content out to 10% of your followers. Therefore, hashtags are the best alternative for a higher reach. 

Moreover, hashtags are the easiest way for you to connect with new followers within your niche. Use hashtags that fit your content, so the audience within that hashtag will visit your profile. The purpose of using hashtags is that you essentially want more viewers with similar interests to your profile. Once they’re on your feed, they will be more engaged to follow you. 

My impressions are significantly higher when I use hashtags specific to my niche. I would definitely recommend using at least 15-30 hashtags per post. It truly increases my accounts visibility and helps grow a following.

queer femme

8. Tag and Mention Other Accounts

Mentioning other accounts helps grow your reach and bring more unique followers to your profile. Tagging other accounts and brands in your feed and IG stories will enable your account to be seen by their followers.

  • beautiful maxi dress
  • Neutral outfit female

9. Provide Value

I associate Content Creators as providing a free service. You are servicing others with aspirational or informative content on social. Content Creators should provide some sort of value to the viewer in order for them to feel the need to follow.

Whether its fitness routines, styling techniques, or cooking recipes, Content Creators who provide value or solve a problem always have stronger engagement rates. I have seen accounts skyrocket because they offer robust and educational content for free.

So, how do you provide value on Instagram? Figure out how to solve a problem. What are people searching for? What do you think is missing from the space? When I create a post, I’m always asking myself how can I add value. When you’re providing a service, your customer’s needs come first. The same goes for Instagram content.

Streetstyle Female

10. Be An Authority On Your Niche

Finally, be an authority on your topic. Show up on the channel with confidence and be the expert in your niche. You want your followers to think of you when they need advice or inspiration. So don’t overwhelm yourself on different topics to cover. Pick one or two topics and make it your focus.

Word of mouth marketing is the best form of marketing, so be an authority on your niche in order for a follower to recommend you. More importantly as an authoritative voice, you gain trust amongst your followers which is a key factor in increasing your engagement rate.

female beautiful flowers photoshoot
  • 10 WAYS TO INCREASE ENGAGEMENT RATE ON INSTAGRAM
  • 10 WAYS TO INCREASE ENGAGEMENT RATE ON INSTAGRAM
  • 10 WAYS TO INCREASE ENGAGEMENT RATE ON INSTAGRAM

In: Mastering Social Media, Uncategorized · Tagged: Blogger, Blogging, engagement rate, fashion blogger, fashion influencer, followers, grow following, Grow instagram, Hashtags, IG story, IGTV, Increase engagement rate, Influencer, Instagram, Instagram Blogger, Instagram engagement, instagram following, instagram help, iphone, Niche, Social Media

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Where do you pull inspiration? I’ve been asked Where do you pull inspiration?

I’ve been asked this question a lot recently and I actually made it a topic in my workshop.

Inspiration can come from anywhere.

For me, I love to see what’s going on in other niches outside of my own, such as photography or even menswear.

We’re so consumed by our own feeds or what the algorithm gives us that it’s hard to step outside of our norm with creative enlightenment. 

So if you’re in a pickle and need a change of scenery, take a look at other categories. Everyone has a unique approach or messaging.

Then ask yourself, “how can I make this my own?”
•
•
•
•
•
#orangeoutfit #fashionreel #colorfulfashion #colorstyle #summerfashion2022 #contentcreatortips #nycstreetstyle #nycfashionblogger
⁣How do you view success?⠀ ⠀ To me, it’s s ⁣How do you view success?⠀
⠀
To me, it’s stepping out of my comfort zone and building a life that I once thought was unattainable.⠀
⠀
My wife sent me a podcast this week with @jasminestar and @jennakutcher (two insanely talented entrepreneurs I look up to). The topic was about pivoting. ⠀
⠀
@jennakutcher said something that really stuck with me - it’s not that you need to know where you’re going but what you’re moving away from. ⠀
⠀
Whether you’re just starting out on your side hustle journey, in the process of building it, or at the point of going full time, there will always be moments of pivoting.⠀
⠀
I’ve tried out so many unique side hustles over the last 6 years lol from different forms of YouTube channels to a podcast! Every time something didn’t feel right, I’d let it go and move on to the next. ⠀
⠀
Overnight success is a made up term. Nothing happens overnight or in a month. It takes commitment and trust in yourself. ⠀
⠀
I always say “keep going” to my clients. It took me 6 years to get here (with multiple high and lows in the process).⠀
⠀
So trust the process and enjoy the journey… it’s worth it.⠀
•⠀
•⠀
•⠀
•⠀
•
#parisianvibes #parisianamour #parisianaesthetic #mystylediary #frenchgirlstyle #lesbianstyle #wildsssouls #frenchgirldaily #vintageinspo #lestyleàlafrançaise
100K followers?! Is this real life? A year ago I 100K followers?! Is this real life?

A year ago I was at 16K. 

I launched a new strategy at the beginning of July (I was at 60K) and I said to myself I will get to 70K in 4 weeks - then I ended up at 100K! 

So this was not pure luck, it was strategy. 

Don’t worry (you know I don’t gatekeep!) I will share this strategy soon!

To all my newcomers, I’m so happy you’re here! Here are a few things about me!

1. I’m a social media strategist and thought leader with over 10+ years experience in luxury fashion, beauty, and social media marketing. 

2. Im a member of the LGBTQ+ community and have the most amazing and supportive wife @vicmatthews06 

3. Saved up enough money and left my mentally draining fashion corporate job last April to pursue a dream of becoming my own boss

4. Launched my social media consulting business in June 2021. Since then, I have scaled to workshops and soon to be courses and memberships later this year!

5. I’m here to help small business owners, entrepreneurs, content creators grow their digital presence on social media and create the life they’ve always wanted

6. I live outside of NYC in NJ with my wife and 3 year old pup Nike. we’re finally re-planning our wedding (that was canceled during the pandemic) for summer 2023!

I also offer 1-on-1 services as well and you can find out more details through the link in my bio!

I’m so happy you found my corner of the internet! Get ready to feel inspired and motivated to create!
📸: @megmccstudio 
💄: @spiffysface 
•
•
•
•
•
•
#colorfulfashion #colorfulstyle #lesbianblogger #lgbtqtravelers #gayinfluencer #colorfulmakeup #colorfuleyeshadow #pinterestgirl #orangedress
First try at this classic mirror transition! Which First try at this classic mirror transition! Which vibe is your favorite?

Also, who wants a tutorial on how I created it? If you have a long mirror at home, you can do this!
•
•
•
•
•
#colorfulfashion #colorfulstyle #nycstreetstyle #barbiecore #yellowsuit #barbiestyle
Love creating unique content with my wife 💕 @v Love creating unique content with my wife 💕

@vic.m.photos dusted off her old Polaroid from 2000 and we took it for a spin around NYC’s West Village!

I love her eye for small details. So many things I miss, she stops and takes a photo of it. 

Ever in a creative rut? Spend time with another creative to inspire you ❤️ 
•
•
•
•
•
#polaroids #polaroidcamera #polaroidphotography #contentcreatortips #nycstreetstyle #polaroidoriginals
Another indoor/outdoor transition for you to try! Another indoor/outdoor transition for you to try!

These transitions have become my new go-to! There easy and always have a surprise ending 🙂

Sometimes it doesn’t have to be complicated and let your surroundings do the work!

Working on a new tutorial this week! Stay tuned xx 
•
•
•
•
•
#contentcreatortips #fashiontransition #clothestransition #colorfulfashion #colorfulstyle #pradashoes #nycstreetstyle #parisianstreetstyle #parisianamour
Which do you prefer - doe or siren? I’ve seen s Which do you prefer - doe or siren?

I’ve seen so many variations using this audio! A lot of “this or that” or “before and after” - they’re all great. 

This sound is currently trending, so think of a comparison scenario that fits within your niche 🙌💕

Need some inspo? Just look at what other creators have posted for this audio!

Makeup details
Eyeliner: @maccosmetics Brushstroke 24hr liner (it’s flawless!)
Foundation: @diorbeauty Forever Skin Glow
Setting powder: @maccosmetics studio fix pressed powder
Bronzer: @anastasiabeverlyhills bronzer palette 
mascara: @milkmakeup rise mascara 
Eyebrows: @anastasiabeverlyhills brow freeze 
Lips: @hudabeauty matte lipstick (shade: Boardroom)
Gloss: @cosmedix_ Lumi crystal liquid gloss
•
•
•
•
•
#beautytrends #beautyreels #makeupreels #makeupreel #makeupbloggers #beautybloggerlife #beautycontent #cateyeliner
More like a Cher Horowitz moment 🛍 I also tol More like a Cher Horowitz moment 🛍 

I also told my wife I’d find a purpose for all our old shopping bags!

📸 & 📹: @megmccstudio 
•
•
•
•
•
#summerfashion2022 #colorfulfashion #colorfulstyle #pastelaesthetic #pinterestgirl #pinterestaesthetic #nycinfluencer #nycfashionblogger #nycstreetstyle
Which outfit do you prefer 💛 or 💜? 

Also I’m so excited that I finally achieved the pole transition! I’ve been wanting to do this for YEARS lol

A lot of folks don’t mention this, but you need an extra hand creating this type of content. 

Full transparency, I had my photographer watch my tripod and made sure it was stable throughout the filming and clothes change. 

So if you want to create this, ask a friend for help! 

Thanks @megmccstudio for the assist!
•
•
•
•
•
#colorfulfashion #colorfulstyle #contentcreatortips #reelsfashion #nycstreetstyle #summerfashion2022 #yellowoutfit
It’s the last day to sign up for the Video Creat It’s the last day to sign up for the Video Creators Workshop!

I’m so nervous to host my first workshop but also excited… but also stressed lol

Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to truly transform your video content across @instagram , @tiktok and @youtube!

I feel like everyday I’m perfecting the workshop lol I have so much in store for my students… plus I don’t share this stuff on Insta. It’s too valuable!

Reels and TikTok has changed the game for me and provided me with so many incredible opportunities. 

I’ve worked with 100’s of students to help improve their social media strategy and video content, now I’m prepared to take my program to the next level and launch this workshop!

Link in my bio to learn more and feel free to DM with any questions! 

Shoutout to the talented @meg for this video! 
•
•
•
•
•
#parisianstreetstyle #parisianchic #parisianamour #vintageaesthetics #retroaesthetic #beigepalette #nycstreetstyle

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