Instagram Isn’t Just For Likes Anymore – Here’s How to Make It Work for Your Business (Even If You’re New to Marketing)
Remember when Instagram was just for pretty pictures and selfies? Not anymore. Meta has announced that as of July 2025, Instagram has officially stepped into the world of Google search – which means your posts, videos and profile can now show up when people search on Google.
But what does all of this mean if you’re a small business owner, school, coach, or just someone trying to grow an audience without a marketing degree?
It means Instagram is no longer just about likes. It’s now a proper tool for getting found online. And the best part is that you really don’t need to be an expert to make it work.
Let’s break it down – simply, clearly, and step-by-step.
Why This Matters (In Plain English)
Until now, Instagram was a bit of a closed club. Your posts only really reached people already following you or who happened to see you by chance. But now Google can see them too. That means someone typing “yoga classes in Brighton” or “how to make sourdough” could stumble across your post – even if they’ve never heard of you.
Think of Instagram a bit like a shop window. Except now that window is on the high street and the main road. You’re getting double the foot traffic – but only if you set it up right.
So how do you do that?
Step-By-Step: How To Optimise Instagram For Search
Here’s exactly what to do to help more people find your posts – even if you’re brand new to this.
1. Write Clear, Helpful Captions
Don’t just say “Love this!” or “New post ✨”.
Instead, describe what the photo is and who it’s for. Example:
“Handmade soy candles – perfect for cosy nights. Now available in our online shop. Made in Cornwall.”
This helps Instagram (and Google) understand your post and show it to the right people.
And to make this even more useful – use words your ideal customer might type into Google.
2. Add Alt Text To Your Images
Alt text is a hidden description of your image. It was originally created to help visually impaired users, but as luck would have it, it’s also great for search engines!
When posting, click Advanced Settings → Write Alt Text. Describe what’s in the photo, like this:
“A small business owner packaging organic soap with eco-friendly wrapping in her home studio.”
This small step helps your images get picked up in search results.
3. Make Your Bio Work Harder
Your Instagram bio is like a mini business card. Use it to explain what you do, where you do it, and who you help.
For example: “Brighton-based dog groomer | Gentle care for nervous pups | Book online 👇”
And always make sure your profile is public and set to “Business” or “Creator” so it can be indexed by Google.
4. Use Hashtags That Make Sense
Forget using 30 random hashtags – those days are gone. Instead, choose a few that actually describe your business, product, or topic.
For example: #BrightonYoga #BeginnerYogaTips #OnlineYogaClass
Think of hashtags as signs that help people find your content – not as a way to “go viral”.
5. Tag Your Location
If your business has a physical location or serves a local area, always tag where you are. It helps both Instagram and Google know you’re relevant for local searches.
So if someone types “best café in Leeds”, your post tagged “Leeds” might pop up.
6. Add Subtitles To Your Reels And Videos
Most people watch videos on mute. Adding subtitles means more people understand what you’re saying – and search engines can understand too.
Use Instagram’s auto-caption sticker, or add text directly onto your video.
Instagram used to be all about the moment. A post would live for a few hours, maybe a day. But now, it can live on – showing up in Google search, reaching new people, and working for you 24/7.
So every post you share can become a little marketing machine.
Not Sure Where to Start?
You don’t need to figure this all out alone. At Marketing Toolbox, we help small businesses and beginners get clarity on what to say, where to say it, and how to make every piece of content count.
Want help getting found on Instagram and Google?
Here’s what to do:
- We’ll review your Instagram and give you simple, clear actions to take
- You’ll leave with a plan that actually feels doable
Instagram is no longer just a place to be seen – it’s a place to get found. And that’s a big win for small businesses, especially if you’re just getting started.
Make your content work smarter, not harder. The earlier you start, the more momentum you build.