As a teacher I spend a lot of time encouraging my students to expand their vocabulary. Things aren’t good and bad. We need to go deeper than that. Awesome and Amazing are overused. When I write comments to my students, I try to use a variety of words and phrases to keep it exciting. I feel the same approach is necessary when it comes to Instagram. I find myself writing Pretty, Stunning, Gorgeous, and Beautiful over and over again. Even Instagram called me a robot and told me to stop it. So I took a little time to think about how I could improve my comments and engagement, and this is what I came up with. Here are my top ten suggestions and I can’t wait to hear yours!
10. Tell them what you love.
I love the way your photos tell a story.
9. Ask about technique!
How did you capture that shot?
8. Compliment the skills of the poster.
You captured the perfect moment/angle!
7. Relate it to your own experiences.
I loved this place as a child. Or That was my college hang out too!
6. I wish I were (note, never I wish I was) _________________.
(here, there, with you, on the beach).
5. Let them know you feel inspired.
This is on my bucket list now! or I’m inspired to try ___________ now!
4. Show anticipation!
I love your style, I can’t wait to see more of your Spring Fashion!
3. Ask for more information.
I need to know where this is! Is it far from XYZ?
2. Use emoticons. These are especially helpful when commenting on multilingual accounts.
1.Tag a friend with your comment. This is the ultimate comment/compliment. It brings new users to the account.
@ingeagni We have to try this!!
@MommyDearest Can we have this for dinner tonight?
@TalesfromaFork Have you tried this restaurant yet?
What are your favorite comments to give and receive?
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Thanks for including me on this! This is a great list. I often ask people about their technique and always get responses!
I think it is so important. Some people think of engagement as “Nice pic” and “pretty” but that isn’t going to start a conversation. We have to be more strategic in how we engage in school AND online!