So, you want that little blue check next to your handle on Instagram, huh? 

Well, you're in luck because we've got the 7 essential steps you need to take to make that happen. 

But first, let's take a deep dive into Instagram verification and why it matters, and learn how to get verified on Instagram.

Understanding Instagram Verification

What is Instagram verification?

Instagram verification is the process of proving to Instagram that you are a notable public figure or brand. 

Once verified, you'll receive a shiny blue checkmark next to your handle, indicating to your followers that your account is legitimate.

Verification is a way for Instagram to ensure that accounts with a large following are authentic and not impostors. 

This helps to maintain the integrity of the platform and protect users from scams or fake accounts.

Why is verification important?

Having a verified account sets you apart from the masses and lets your followers know that you're someone to be taken seriously.

It helps build your credibility and identity on the platform, which is especially important if you represent a brand or business.

Verification can also help you gain more followers and increase engagement. When people see that you're verified, they're more likely to trust and follow you. 

This can lead to more opportunities for collaborations, sponsorships, and partnerships.

However, it's important to note that verification is not a guarantee of success on Instagram. 

While it can certainly help, it's still up to you to create and share high-quality content that resonates with your audience.

How can you get verified?

To get verified on Instagram, you'll need to meet certain criteria and submit a verification request through the app. The criteria include:

• Being a notable public figure or brand
• Having a complete and optimized profile
• Being active on the platform and having a significant following
• Having a clean record with no recent violations of Instagram's terms of service

If you meet these criteria, you can submit a request by going to your profile, tapping the three lines in the top right corner, and selecting "Settings." 

From there, tap "Account" and then "Request Verification."

You'll need to provide your full name, a government-issued ID, and other information to prove your identity and eligibility for verification. 

Instagram will review your request and notify you of their decision.

Keep in mind that verification is not guaranteed, and Instagram may reject your request if they don't believe you meet the criteria or if they receive a high volume of requests.

Hence, Instagram verification is a way to prove your authenticity and credibility on the platform. 

It can help you gain more followers, increase engagement, and build your brand or business. 

However, it's important to remember that verification is not a guarantee of success and that creating high-quality content is still the key to success on Instagram.

Step 1: Optimize Your Instagram Profile

Having a well-optimized Instagram profile is the first step to growing your following and increasing engagement. 

Here are some tips to help you optimize your profile:

Choose a high-quality profile picture

Your profile picture is the first thing people see when they come across your account, so it's important to make a great first impression. 

Choose a high-quality picture that is representative of your personal brand. If you're a business, consider using your logo as your profile picture.

Remember, your profile picture will be displayed as a small thumbnail, so make sure it's easily recognizable and stands out from the crowd.

Write a compelling bio

Your Instagram bio is your chance to tell people who you are and what you do. 

Use it to showcase your personality and give people a reason to follow you. Keep it concise, but include relevant keywords that will help people find you when they search for specific topics.

Consider adding a call-to-action to your bio, such as "Click the link below to shop our latest collection" or "DM me for collaborations". 

This can help drive traffic to your website or encourage people to engage with you.

Include a link to your website or portfolio

If you're trying to establish yourself or your brand on Instagram, it's important to provide a link to your website or portfolio. 

This allows people to learn more about you and your work, and can help you drive traffic to your website.

Consider using a link tracking service, such as Bitly, to track clicks on your link. 

This can help you understand how many people are clicking through to your website from Instagram.

By optimizing your Instagram profile, you can make a great first impression and attract more followers to your account. 

Remember to keep your profile updated and relevant, and engage with your followers regularly to build a strong community on the platform.

Step 2: Post High-Quality Content Regularly

Now that you've set up your Instagram account and created a strong profile, it's time to focus on posting high-quality content. 

The key to success on Instagram is consistency, so aim to post at least once a day or a few times a week. 

This will keep your followers engaged and interested in your content.

Develop a consistent aesthetic

One of the most important aspects of creating a successful Instagram account is developing a consistent aesthetic. 

Your Instagram feed is your portfolio, so make sure it's visually appealing and represents your personal brand. 

This means using similar filters, colors, and themes to create a cohesive and visually pleasing feed. 

Take some time to curate your content and plan out your posts in advance to ensure that they fit with your overall aesthetic.

It's also important to consider the composition of your photos. 

Try experimenting with different angles, lighting, and backgrounds to create visually interesting and dynamic images. This will help your content stand out and attract more followers.

Engage with your audience

Posting high-quality content is just the first step. To truly succeed on Instagram, you need to engage with your followers. 

Don't just post content and disappear – take the time to respond to comments, ask for your followers' input, and share user-generated content. 

ALSO READ: How to Use Instagram for Business in 2023: 5 Pro Tips

This will help build a sense of community around your account and keep your followers coming back for more.

Another way to engage with your audience is to use Instagram's features like polls, questions, and quizzes in your stories. 

This is a great way to get feedback from your followers and encourage them to interact with your content.

Utilize Instagram Stories and Reels

Instagram Stories and Reels are powerful tools to give your account more visibility and engagement. 

They allow you to showcase behind-the-scenes content, tips and tricks, or even just your daily life. 

Use them to give your followers a glimpse into your world and build a deeper connection with them.

When creating stories and reels, try to keep them visually interesting and engaging. 

Use stickers, text, and music to make your content stand out and grab your followers' attention. 

You can also use hashtags and location tags to increase the visibility of your content and attract new followers.

Overall, posting high-quality content regularly and engaging with your audience is key to building a successful Instagram account. 

By developing a consistent aesthetic, using Instagram's features, and creating visually interesting content, you can attract more followers and build a loyal community around your brand.

Step 3: Grow Your Following Organically

If you're looking to learn how to verify Instagram account, firstly, you need to set up your account, optimize your profile, and create high-quality content. 

Now, it's time to focus on growing your following organically by using some effective strategies:

Use Relevant Hashtags

Hashtags are a powerful tool that can help you reach a wider audience on Instagram. 

By using relevant hashtags, you can connect with people who are interested in your niche or industry. 

Make sure to research and use hashtags that are specific to your content and target audience. 

You can also use popular and trending hashtags to increase your visibility.

For example, if you're a fitness influencer, you can use hashtags like #fitfam, #fitnessmotivation, or #workoutinspiration to attract people who are interested in fitness and wellness.

Collaborate with Other Users

Collaborating with other Instagram users is a great way to expand your reach and gain new followers. 

Look for influencers or brands in your niche who have a similar audience and reach out to them for collaboration opportunities. 

You can collaborate on a post, a giveaway, or even a product launch.

Collaborations can help you tap into new audiences and build relationships with other creators in your industry. 

Plus, it's a great way to create engaging content that your followers will love.

Participate in Instagram Challenges

Instagram challenges are a fun way to engage with your followers and get your content seen by more people. 

Challenges usually involve creating and sharing content that follows a specific theme or prompt. 

By participating in challenges, you can connect with other users who share your interests and gain exposure to new audiences.

ALSO READ: How to Use Instagram Collab Posts to Drive User Engagement

You can either join popular challenges or create your own. If you decide to create your own challenge, make sure to promote it on your profile and use a unique hashtag to make it easy for others to participate.

Remember, growing your following organically takes time and effort. 

Consistency, quality content, and engagement are key to building a loyal and engaged audience on Instagram.

Step 4: Establish Your Online Presence

In today's digital age, establishing an online presence is crucial for individuals and businesses alike. 

Here are some additional steps you can take to expand your online presence:

Connect your Instagram to other social media platforms

Linking your Instagram to your other social media profiles can help increase your visibility and reach a wider audience. 

It also allows you to cross-promote your content and drive more traffic to your Instagram page.

Consider linking your Instagram to your Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn accounts. 

This will allow your followers on those platforms to easily find and follow your Instagram account.

Create a professional website

Having a professional website is essential if you want to establish yourself as a notable public figure or brand. 

Your website should serve as a hub for all of your content and information.

Make sure your website is visually appealing and easy to navigate. Include an "About" page that tells your story and showcases your expertise. 

You can also include a blog section where you can share your thoughts and insights on topics related to your industry.

Get featured in online publications

Getting featured in online publications or blogs is a great way to establish yourself as a thought leader in your industry. 

ALSO READ: 9 Instagram post ideas to spice up your account

It can also help you reach a wider audience and gain more credibility.

Start by researching online publications or blogs that are relevant to your industry. Reach out to the editors or writers and pitch them your ideas for articles or guest posts. 

Make sure your pitches are well-written and tailored to the publication's audience.

By following these additional steps, you can expand your online presence and establish yourself as a credible and influential figure in your industry.

Step 5: Follow Instagram's Community Guidelines and Terms of Service

If you're wondering how to get verified on IG, it's important to note that Instagram is a social media platform where users can share their photos and videos with the world. 

With over one billion active users, it's crucial to follow Instagram's Community Guidelines and Terms of Service to ensure that you're using the platform in a responsible and respectful way.

Avoid spammy behavior

One of the most important things to keep in mind when using Instagram is to avoid spammy behavior. 

This means that you should not spam people with irrelevant or promotional content. Instead, focus on providing value and building relationships with your audience. 

For example, you can share behind-the-scenes photos or videos that show your followers what happens behind the scenes of your business or brand.

Another way to avoid spammy behavior is to engage with your followers in a meaningful way. 

Respond to comments and messages, and ask your followers questions to encourage conversation.

Respect other users' content

Another important aspect of using Instagram is to respect other users' content. This means that you should not steal or repost other people's content without their consent. 

Always give credit where credit is due by tagging the original creator in your post or caption.

If you want to share someone else's content, make sure you ask for their permission first. 

This will help you build relationships with other users on the platform and avoid any potential legal issues.

Stay informed about Instagram's policies

Finally, it's important to stay informed about Instagram's policies. 

Instagram's policies are constantly evolving, so make sure you're up-to-date on their rules and guidelines to avoid getting your account flagged or suspended.

One way to stay informed is to follow Instagram's official blog and social media accounts. This will give you the latest updates on any changes to the platform's policies and guidelines.

By following these tips and guidelines, you can use Instagram in a responsible and respectful way that will help you build your brand and connect with your audience.

Step 6: Prove Your Notability

If you're wondering how do you get verified on Instagram, proving your notability on the platform is essential to stand out from the crowd and build a strong following. 

While there are many ways to establish your credibility, here are some effective strategies:

Garner Media Coverage

One of the best ways to establish your credibility and notability on Instagram is to get featured in news outlets or magazines. 

This kind of coverage can help you reach a wider audience and position yourself as an expert in your field. 

ALSO READ: How to Schedule Instagram Posts (And Why You Should)

To get started, reach out to local or niche publications that cover topics related to your industry. 

Pitch them a story or offer to provide expert commentary on a current event. 

If you're successful, your name and Instagram handle may be included in the article, which can lead to a surge in followers.

Win Awards or Accolades

Achieving awards or accolades in your industry is another great way to prove your worth and authority. 

If you're a photographer, for example, winning a prestigious photography award can help you establish yourself as a leader in your field. 

Similarly, if you're a fitness influencer, being named "Trainer of the Year" by a respected fitness organization can help you gain credibility and attract new followers. 

To increase your chances of winning awards or accolades, make sure you're consistently producing high-quality content and engaging with your audience.

Partner with Well-Known Brands

Collaborating with well-known brands or influencers in your industry is a great way to establish your authority and legitimacy on the platform. 

When you partner with a brand, you're essentially getting an endorsement from them, which can help you attract new followers and establish yourself as a trusted expert. 

To find potential brand partners, start by reaching out to companies that align with your values and aesthetic. 

You can also use influencer marketing platforms to connect with brands that are looking for collaborators.

By implementing these strategies, you can establish your notability on Instagram and build a strong, engaged following. 

Remember to stay true to your brand and values, and always provide value to your audience.

Step 7: Check for Impersonators

Report fake accounts

If you come across any fake accounts posing as you or your brand, report them immediately to Instagram to protect your identity and reputation.

ALSO READ: 14 Important Instagram Trends to Watch in 2023

Monitor your online reputation

Regularly search for your name or brand name on Instagram to ensure that there aren't any fake accounts or trolls trying to damage your reputation.

FAQs- Here’s More For You!

Q. What are the steps to get verified on Instagram?

The steps to get verified on Instagram, go to your profile settings, tap 'Request Verification', enter your full name and attach a clear photo of your ID. Submit your request and wait for Instagram to review it.

Q. What are the requirements for getting verified on Instagram?

To verify Instagram account, it must meet the following requirements: authenticity, uniqueness, completeness, notability, and activity.

Q. How to get verified on Instagram?

To get verified on Instagram, you need to go to 'Request Verification' in your account settings, enter your details and attach a clear photo of your ID. Instagram will then review your request, which can take several weeks.

Q. What happens after I submit my verification request?

Instagram will review your request, which can take several weeks. You'll receive a notification once your request has been approved or denied.

Q. Can I buy Instagram verification?

No, buying verification is a scam and can result in your account being suspended or banned.

Q. What is the best way to get verified on instagram?

The best way to get verified on Instagram is to build a strong presence on the platform, engage with followers and other accounts, collaborate with influencers or brands, get featured in media, use hashtags, and maintain a consistent brand image.

Q. How long does it take to get verified on Instagram?

The process can take several weeks, and there's no guarantee of approval.

Q. Is verification on Instagram necessary?

No, it's not necessary, but it can help establish credibility and build trust with followers.

Conclusion

By following these 7 essential steps on how to get verified on Instagram, you'll be well on your way to establishing your identity, credibility, and authority on the platform. 

Remember, it's not just about the blue checkmark. Now, go forth and create some quality content!