How brands can navigate through and connect with their Instagram audience amid coronavirus

Our need to socially distance despite the importance of in-person communications amidst the unprecedented event we are all facing is no doubt compounding the ongoing uncertainty worldwide.

As we adapt to this new practice to help flatten the curve, the concept of connection is evolving, and the role of Instagram and social media as a whole is now more critical than ever.

Many are shuffling through various social platforms searching for updates, and sharing their feelings regarding the coronavirus/ COVID-19 conundrum. Some resourceful individuals have taken to Instagram, forming meaningful connections, providing much-needed encouragement for others, and are partaking in Instagram trends that have emerged as a spinoff of the pandemic. How exactly should companies participate during this unprecedented event – that’s so much more important than their brand?

Before you can help others, it’s crucial that you stay safe and up to date with the World Health Organization (WHO) and your local department of health so you can swiftly make adjustments when changes concerning you or your customers arise.

Act with empathy

To avoid appearing tone-deaf, assess the content you’ve scheduled/ intend to post. Though scraping planned content, especially announcements, can be inconveniencing. No brand wants to convey that their contribution exists to draw attention to themselves. A global pandemic is not an opportunity for fearmongering marketing. Instead, provide value by considering how your brand can be helpful during these challenging times. If you’re unable to help, try sharing a post expressing compassion. Or a message regarding safety measures you’re implementing and any impact on your organization’s operations.

Though no tried and tested social media strategies exist for brands to implement when the crisis is a global pandemic, several brands have innovated the way they extend their offerings through Instagram. In doing so, let’s explore some ways in which you can learn from these brands across various industries and best encourage a feeling of connection amongst your audience during this time of coronavirus.

Considerations for realtors in the time of coronavirus

Amid concerns of contracting COVID-19 from open houses, showings, and other traditional in-person real estate operations – particularly in areas where real estate hasn’t been considered an essential business – consider doing Facetime conferences with sellers and buyers, and virtual tours through Instagram live and other mediums.

Take, Ideal Properties Group, for example, they’ve launched live virtual listing viewings dubbed “Showings on Demand” allowing prospects to make an appointment for a virtual showing instead of an in-person viewing.