Why People STOP Instagram Advertising Forever

If you want to get more bookings, don't boost posts with Instagram.

Most short-term rental entrepreneurs see boosting a post the same as advertising.

In my opinion, that belief is what makes a lot of people stop Instagram advertising forever.

The truth is, there's a use case for both.

In this article, I'm going to share how I use boosted posts and how I use ads.

It took me three years to figure this out. My hope is that it'll take you three minutes.

Let's dive in.

If You Want Bookings, Don't Use Boosted Posts.

Boosted posts is made for beginner marketers. It's a very simple way to get:

• More profile visits.

• More website views.

• A feel for Instagram's advertising services.

Boosted posts does well at getting more eyeballs on your brand.

But that's about it.

Targeting is limited and results don't directly translate to bookings.

With that said, I'll still boost a post for two reasons:

1. If I want to test new content and get quick feedback on whether people like it.

2. If I want to rapidly build a following because I have some sort of offer coming out soon.

I only use boosted posts as a research tool or a piece to a much larger marketing puzzle.

I never invest in them as my sole marketing vehicle.

Advertise For Bookings

Think of boosted posts as a prebuilt tiny home made of plastic.

It's functional but you get what you get. There's almost zero room for customization.

Instagram ads is a truckload full of 2x4s, an architect designed blueprint, nails and a 6-pack of good time juice.

It's extremely customizable.

When I want to get more bookings, I'm using ads. Ads has the Meta Pixel which allows me to do that.

Boosted posts doesn't have the Pixel.

If I want to target middle aged couples in the Twin Cities who like the outdoors and Airbnb, I'm using ads.

Ads has more targeting options so I can get very specific. Boosted posts stays very broad.

But, when I want to grow my following while getting more bookings. I use both.

Boosted posts does great at getting people to see your brand.

Ads does really well at getting those people to buy.

It All Comes Down To Your Goal

Instagram boosted posts and ads are both tools.

Your goal decides which one to use.

I've seen people forever turn away from Instagram because they used the wrong tool.

I've built my business and a few others on Instagram ads. This platform has quite literally put food on the table for people I know.

But it only worked once I realized:

• I still need a clear goal.

• Because these two things are just tools.

• And my goal decides which one to use.

That's all for today. I'll see you in the next article.