If you’re wondering how to grow on Instagram in 2025, here’s the truth: posting alone won’t cut it. Instagram was built for connection, and the accounts that win today are the ones investing in community—not just content.

That might sound overwhelming, but don’t worry—I’ve got a ridiculously simple engagement strategy that has worked for me and my clients for years.

It’s called the 10-10-10 Method (or as my business partner Emily likes to say, “The Shannon Method”). And it’s about to change the way you show up online.

Community > Content

I’ve met some of my favorite online besties, not from overly curated posts, but from comments, DMs, and casual conversations.

In fact, the reason I got invited to present at the Reelies was because I once DM’d Manu (the incredible woman behind the event) about our shared backgrounds in Atlanta.

That connection wasn’t about selling or pitching—it was about being human. And years later? That one DM has turned into collaborations, opportunities, and friendships.

This is proof that engagement is the growth strategy that keeps on giving.

The 10-10-10 Method for Instagram Engagement

Here’s the exact method I used when I was short on time and juggling multiple accounts:

• 10 minutes on your Feed: Leave meaningful comments on posts from people who already follow you. Go beyond “cute!” and spark a conversation.
  
• 10 minutes on Stories: Reply, react, and send quick DMs.
  
  Bonus tip: swipe all the way to the end of your Stories list and engage backward—you’ll reconnect with people you haven’t interacted with in a while.
  
• 10 minutes on Hashtags (or Suggested Accounts): Find accounts your audience follows—local businesses, creators, industry experts—and leave thoughtful comments.

That’s it. Thirty minutes a day. This is the secret sauce for getting seen and staying connected.

If 30 minutes feels like a stretch, break it up:

• 5 minutes on your Feed in the morning.
• 5 minutes on Stories while you’re on a lunch break.
• 5 minutes engaging with hashtags in the evening.

Social media platforms—Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn—are all prioritizing engagement. When you show up in other people’s comments and DMs, they’re far more likely to show your content to new eyes.

Why you should engage with “competitors.”

I don’t view competitors as threats. I’ve co-hosted masterminds with people who literally do the same work as me. Why? Because your people need to hear the same advice in different voices.

And here’s the kicker—when you engage with competitors, you often expand your reach into audiences that are already primed for your services.

Instagram is a SOCIAL platform. Always has been, always will be.

The fastest way to grow on Instagram in 2025? Stop treating it like a billboard and start treating it like a networking event—or, if you’re an introvert, like a cozy book club where you never have to leave your couch.

Engagement creates visibility, relationships, and sales. So before you stress about your next post, spend 30 minutes today trying the 10-10-10 Method.

Your next client, collaborator, or business bestie might just be one comment away. ❤️