What Does it Mean to Get Verified on Instagram?
Getting “verified” by Instagram means that Instagram has personally confirmed that you are who you say you are.
Verified accounts get the coveted blue verification badge, also called the “blue tick,” next to their profile name.
Why and when should you get verified on Instagram?
Getting verified on Instagram typically begins with a desire to show audiences that your account is your only real account, so they don't follow an impersonator. It helps you create a credible and trustworthy presence on the app.
Verified accounts also appear higher up in search results, making it a valuable tool for businesses to generate awareness and exposure when users search for your name or keywords related to the content you share on the platform.
Verification lends power and influence for two reasons:
- It’s hard to get, which makes it more prestigious.
- Verification is handled personally by Instagram staffers, so it lends a solid reputation.
It’s as if the CEO of Instagram personally floated down from a cloud and said: “This business is legit.”
Who Can Apply to Get Verified?
Anyone can request verification, but Instagram is careful about who it verifies, considering the blue badge carries significant weight.
Instagram changed the rules and now they allow anyone to submit a request for verification. What was once reserved for celebrities, public figures, and giant brands is now open to small businesses and entrepreneurs.
Instagram says that there are a few key factors when reviewing requests. Most significantly, your account must align with Instagram's Terms of Use and Community Guidelines.
Your account also needs to be:
Authentic: Your account represents a real person (public figure, influencer, etc.) or a real registered business or entity.
Unique: The content you share needs to represent the unique qualities of the person or business requesting verification.
Complete: When you apply, your profile must be a public profile that contains a bio and profile photo and an active presence on the app.
Notable: Your account needs to represent someone that is well known or often searched for. Instagram reviews news sources for notability, but it does not consider paid or sponsored media.
How many followers to get verified on Instagram?
Instagram is tight-lipped about any numbers required for verification. While some sources say 10,000 followers, Instagram has never verified this claim.
It's best to seek out verification that isn't based on follower count but more about the presence you're hoping to build on the app and if you think there is a possibility for impersonation.
How to Request To Get Verified on Instagram
To request an Instagram verification for your brand or business:
- Log in to the account you’re requesting verification for.
- Tap the menu icon on your profile.
- Go to: Settings > Account > Request Verification
- Enter your name and provide your acceptable form of I.D. (usually a government-issued photo I.D.)
How long does it take to get verified on Instagram?
You'll receive a notification about your verification request in the Activity tab up to 30 days after submitting your request. While you wait, it's best to continue using the platform as you normally would. If your application gets denied, you can submit another request after 30 days.
Whether you're verified or not, the best way to interact with your audience on the platform and generate a presence is to be active and share valuable and informative content. Your audience will recognize that you're there to help them succeed, and they'll view you as a credible source.
Does Instagram Verification Translate To Cash?
No. And yes.
Take advantage of its influence to expand your reach and build your audience.
Then, establish a connection through meaningful conversations and high-quality content. Finally, poise your account to convert those followers to leads or customers.
That translates to cash.
Verification can mean a wider audience and more success for your business if you have the right social media marketing strategy in play.
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