Starting Instagram from Scratch: How I Built My New Account in 14 Steps

Starting an Instagram account from scratch isn’t as daunting as it sounds. When I started my first Instagram account, Tinseltown Mom, over 11 years ago, I had no direction—no clear posting strategy, content plan, or understanding of who my ideal audience was. Years later, I launched a new account, MOMetize Your Passion, with the benefit of lessons learned: how to niche down, understand your ideal customer, develop a content strategy, and more. These same principles apply whether you’re starting from scratch or rebranding an existing account.

If you’re launching a new Instagram for your business, here are 14 key steps to set you up for success:

Starting Instagram from Scratch

1. Figure Out Your Niche

A niche is a focused segment of a larger market. From the beginning, get clear on who you’re helping and what specific value you offer. This decision will guide your content, branding, and messaging.

2. Determine Your Ideal Customer

Who are you trying to serve? What are their pain points, needs, and goals? Understanding your target audience helps you create content that connects and converts.

3. Choose a Clear Username

Pick a handle that’s simple, memorable, and relevant to your name or niche. Avoid excessive punctuation or numbers if possible.

4. Create a Strong Profile Name

This is the bold name under your profile picture. Include your real name and a keyword-friendly title like:“Jane Smith | Career Coach” or “Mompreneur Mentor | Jane Smith”. This boosts searchability.

Related: Finding the Right Content Creation Platform for Online Businesses

5. Add a Clear Profile Picture

Use a high-quality, well-lit headshot. People connect with people, so choose a friendly photo of yourself to build trust.

6. Write a Compelling Bio

Your bio should clearly state who you help and how you help them. Use searchable keywords and make it easy to understand at a glance.

7. Add Contact Info and a Link

Include your email and a clickable link to your website or landing page. If you have multiple offers, use tools like Linktree or Stan Store to keep things organized.

8. Create 2–3 Content Pillars

Content pillars are your go-to topics. Pick 2–3 areas that align with your niche and that your audience is actively searching for. Stick to these themes to stay consistent and attract the right followers.

9. Switch to a Creator or Business Account

This unlocks insights and analytics so you can monitor performance, reach, and engagement—vital for growth.

10. Determine Your Posting Schedule

Start realistically—maybe 2–3 posts per week—and scale up if you can. Use a mix of Reels, carousels, and static images. Consistency and quality are key.

11. Post Your First Piece of Content

Introduce yourself! Share who you are, what you do, and how you serve your ideal audience. Be personable and invite engagement from the start.

Related: 5 Ways to Make Money Through Content Creation

12. Use Instagram Stories Daily

Stories are powerful for building connection and staying top of mind. Post behind-the-scenes content, tips, polls, or personal moments. Use interactive features like sliders, polls, and questions to increase engagement.

Note: Instagram Stories are short-form posts that disappear after 24 hours and appear at the top of your followers’ feeds.

13. Include a Call to Action (CTA) in Every Post

Prompt your audience to take action: “Save this post,” “Comment below,” “DM me for details,” or “Click the link in bio.” Engagement grows when you guide people on what to do next.

14. Track What Works

Review your analytics weekly. Look for trends in reach, engagement, saves, and shares. Then, double down on what’s performing best.

Whether you’re launching for the first time or starting over with a stronger vision, following these 14 steps will help you create an intentional, professional presence that attracts and nurtures your ideal audience.

Need more strategies? Check out my audio bundle below for additional tips and insights!

Monetize Your God-Led Passion: Audio Bundle + Printable Faith & Business Workbook

Are you a purpose-driven woman ready to turn your God-given passion into a powerful offer that serves others?

This is a hand-picked collection of some of my most practical, passion-led podcast episodes, all curated into one easy-to-access audio bundle. These episodes were designed to help faith-driven women take real, meaningful steps toward monetizing their God-given gifts.

Each audio lesson is packed with insights, tips, and real-world strategies I’ve learned through experience and years of coaching moms to pursue their passion. Whether you’re just starting out or ready to grow what you’ve begun, you’ll walk away inspired and equipped to move forward with clarity.

As a bonus, the final lesson comes with a step-by-step Printable Faith & Business Journal. This is your personalized roadmap to help you plan, build, and launch your passion-based business. From identifying your niche and mapping out your offer, to setting realistic 90-day goals and creating content that connects, this journal will guide you through each step.

Listen to the Podcast Episode Below!