You may think that Instagram’s coveted blue checkmark would be impossible for a new and growing brand like yours to obtain. However, think again! It’s definitely possible for you to get verified on Instagram with the right strategy and a solid application.
So here’s what you need to know about getting verified on Instagram and how it could help grow your business:
The Benefits of Getting Verified on Instagram
If you don’t know much about Instagram, you might think that being verified on this platform doesn’t really mean anything and won’t benefit your business in any way. However, that’s definitely not the case! There are tons of benefits of being verified on Instagram — making it a solid goal for any brand.
- If you’re looking to build your brand image, that blue checkmark is a great way to do it! This is because this seemingly simple icon means a lot to consumers. It essentially signifies to them that your brand is trustworthy and authentic. It elevates you to the status of big brands that also enjoy this status, like Nike, Lululemon, and Louis Vuitton — just to name a few.
- If you’re looking to build your brand exclusivity, obtaining a status that only a select few people and brands enjoy is a great way to do it. In a sample of 6.5 million Instagram accounts that had over 1,000 followers, only 3.26% of them were verified. You can be a part of this exclusive club with your Instagram-verified status!
- If you’re looking to collaborate with brands or Instagram influencers, obtaining a blue checkmark can make this easier. Brands and influencers prefer to work with verified accounts. After all, they already have a reputation of being trustworthy and exclusive — so it makes sense that they want to work with other brands that also enjoy that status.
Can Anyone Get Verified on Instagram?
While you may think that obtaining that elusive blue checkmark on Instagram is only reserved for the rich and famous, think again! Technically, anyone can become verified on Instagram so long as they meet the requirements. That being said, Instagram’s verification requirements are quite exclusive and just because you obtain verification on other platforms like Twitter or even Facebook doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ll be able to obtain verification on Instagram easily.
This is because Instagram focuses on verifying accounts that have a high likelihood of being impersonated. Instagram strives to maintain an effective and authentic platform — something that would be hard to do with a bunch of fake accounts.
As a result, here are some of the different qualifications that you need to meet in order to become verified on Instagram:
- Public: You can only obtain Instagram verification if your account is set to public so that anyone can view your content. Accounts that are set to private are not eligible for verification.
- Complete: You can only obtain Instagram verification if your user profile is complete with relevant information like your bio, profile picture, and actual posts. Make sure to keep your bio short and sweet yet catchy to appeal to the right users. Also, make sure that your profile picture is clear and appealing. Finally, make sure that your posts are tailored and fit your overall brand aesthetic.
- Notable: You can only obtain Instagram verification if your account is considered “notable.” But what does this actually mean? Instagram is looking to verify accounts that are “highly searched for.”
- Unique: You can only obtain Instagram verification if your account is unique. Essentially, you can only have one account verified per person or business. However, there is an exception for language-specific accounts that allows you to have different verified accounts for different countries and languages.
- Authentic: Finally, you can only obtain Instagram verification if your account is authentic. This means that you need to be a real person or business rather than a meme account or a fan page.
Once you meet all these different qualifications, you need to submit your application for verification.
How to Get Verified on Instagram?
The verification application process on Instagram is actually pretty straightforward. There’s really no need to put a lot of effort into the process, so whenever you’re ready — go ahead and do it. The worst they can say is no, and you can always reapply in 30 days.
Here are the different steps you need to follow to get verified on Instagram:
- Go to your Instagram profile and tap on the menu button at the top right corner, next to the create button.
- Tap on settings, then accounts, then request verification.
- This pulls up the application, wherein you will need to fill in your full legal name, your “known as” or working name, and your category or industry. You will also need to attach an official photo from your government-issued identification card if you’re trying to verify a personal account. If you’re trying to verify a business account, you may need to attach proof such as your articles of incorporation, business tax returns, or a business-related utility bill.
- Once the application is complete, just tap send — it is that simple!
From there, Instagram will take the next few days to review your application. You should receive a yes or a no answer within a week.
If you’re approved — then you’ve officially earned that elusive blue checkmark. However, if you’re denied, then you can reapply within 30 days if you feel that you’re able to strengthen your profile and better meet the qualifications within that time.
Rejection can be difficult to manage since Instagram doesn’t really provide any feedback or reasoning as to why they denied your request. You simply have to wait it out and try again.
Tips and Tricks for Getting Your Verification Application Approved on Instagram
Even though the verification application process is quite straightforward, there are some tips and tricks that you can use to increase the likelihood that your application actually gets approved. Here’s what you need to know:
- In order to increase the likelihood of verification, you may need to increase your number of followers. This helps you meet the “notable” qualification set forth by Instagram. That being said, it’s important to note that you don’t need hundreds of thousands of followers to be considered “notable.” Start with 1,000 and go from there! Working with niche marketing and social media experts like Greg Gillman can help you achieve this goal in no time.
- Strategically apply for verification when your brand name is already in the news. Again, this goes towards the “notable” and “highly searched for” qualifications. Prioritizing public relations and working with a publicist can help you get your name out there and earn your Instagram-verified status.
- Avoid cross-linking Instagram to other platforms like YouTube or Twitter. Instead, focus on including relevant links to your professionally-built website.
Final Thoughts
When applying for verification on Instagram, you really have nothing to lose and everything to gain. As a result, we always recommend that brands apply for verification right away. If denied, continue to build your account and periodically reapply until you’re approved.
If you’re having trouble building your account on Instagram, feel free to reach out to Greg Gillman for tailored expertise and assistance on Instagram and beyond.
Sources:
Why Brand Image Matters More Than You Think | Forbes
Verify Your Business on Instagram | Instagram
How to Make Your Small Business Website Really, Really Effective | Entrepreneur
