Meta's new Instagram Threads was unveiled in July 2023 as an alternative to X (Twitter).
The app attracted over 100 million users in its first five days post-launch. While Threads’s growth has slowed as of late, only time will tell if it can surpass X in popularity.
If you're eager to try Instagram Threads but unsure how to begin, you’re in the right place. Let’s unravel the ins and outs of Threads and discover how to use it to help clients meet their marketing goals.
- What is Instagram Threads?
- How do you use Instagram Threads?
- 6 key features of Instagram Threads
- Threads vs. X (Twitter): How do they compare?
- Instagram Threads examples to inspire you
- Instagram Threads best practices
What is Instagram Threads?
Instagram thread is a text-based app similar to X (Twitter). It’s a platform where users can have public conversations and get news updates in real-time.
When you join threads, your feed is curated with posts from accounts you follow. You’ll also receive suggested content tailored to your interests by the Threads algorithm.
Featuring a generous limit of 500 characters and the flexibility to include photos, videos, and links, Threads is an effective channel for communication within your client’s network and with a global audience.
How do you use Instagram Threads?
Like X (Twitter), Threads lets you share text-based content. You also have the option to include links, videos, and photos.
Threads can be connected to your client’s Instagram account. When you connect the two, all of your posts on Threads will automatically appear on your client’s Instagram feed.
Let’s briefly walk through how to set up a Threads account and create your first post in six steps.
Step #1: Download the Threads app from your app store (find it on iOS or Google).
Step #2: Log in to Threads with your client’s Instagram account. If you're logged in to Instagram already, you’ll be prompted to use that account or switch to a different one.
Step #3: Now, let’s write your client’s bio. You can import it from Instagram or write an entirely new one. And just like on Instagram, you can insert any link you want in your profile. Send users to your website, a bio link tool, or anywhere online.
Step #4: After setting up your bio, you’ll want to set up your privacy settings. The privacy screen will appear automatically after finishing or importing your bio from Instagram.
This setting can be different on Threads than it is on Instagram.
Step #5. On the next screen, you’ll be prompted who to follow. Your Instagram follows will show up. You’ll have the option to select individual accounts or follow all of them.
Step #6. The last prompt will explain how Threads works. Read that if you please. Then tap “Join Threads,” and then, that’s it! You’re on Instagram Threads.
Create your first post on Instagram Threads
Find the “compose” icon in the centre of the menu at the bottom of the screen. It’s the one that looks like a pad with a little pen in the right-hand corner.
From there, you’ll be able to start a thread. You can add media, a GIF, audio, or a poll with your text.
You can write up to 500 characters and tag other users using the “@” symbol. Finally, tap “Post. Voila! Congrats, you’ve created your first Threads post.
Follow us on Threads: @sendible
6 key features of Instagram Threads
Instagram Threads is growing and developing. That means users can watch for new features to be released often.
What makes Threads a good alternative to X (Twitter) or other text-based apps? Here are its top features.
1. Real-time updates
Threads provides users with real-time updates, making it a dynamic platform for instant information. Posts appear chronologically, allowing users to stay current with the latest events, news, and trends.
2. Text-based posts
Unlike Instagram, Threads is used for concise, text-focused posts. Users express thoughts, share information, or converse with others in 500 characters or less. You can also string together thoughts in multiple posts (hence the name “Threads”!).
3. Multimedia sharing
Beyond text, Threads supports multimedia content like photos, GIFs, videos, and polls. This diverse range of media enhances the user experience, making posts more engaging and shareable.
4. “For You” vs. “Following” feed
The "For You" feed on Threads offers algorithmically curated content based on user interests, while the "Following" feed displays posts from accounts users have chosen to follow. This dual-feed system caters to both personalised and chronological content consumption.
5. Using Instagram Messenging to send Thread posts
Threads allows users to share and continue conversations privately through Instagram Messaging, expanding the interaction beyond the public timeline. This integration provides a seamless experience for users who prefer private discussions.
6. Mention button
The mention button, represented by the "@" symbol, enables users to tag others in tweets. This fosters direct communication and alerts individuals to relevant content. It's a key feature for engaging in conversations and connecting with other users on the platform.
Exploring Instagram Threads: Sendible’s Guide to Scheduling Them
Threads vs. X (Twitter): How do they compare?
Threads has been dubbed by some as the "X (Twitter) Killer.” And for good reason. It resembles X (Twitter) in appearance and enables users to share photos and videos up to five minutes long. With features like replies, reposts, and quoting of others' Threads posts, it mimics X (Twitter).
But there are some key differences between the two apps:
- Character limit: X (Twitter) imposes a 280-character limit. Threads allow up to 500 characters per post.
- Direct messages: While X (Twitter) supports direct messaging, Threads does not offer this feature.
- Hashtags: X (Twitter)thrives on hashtags, but Threads lacks a prominent hashtag presence.
- Connections: X (Twitter) operates as an independent app, whereas Threads is deeply integrated into Instagram. A Threads post can effortlessly transform into an Instagram Story with just a click.
- App accessibility: X (Twitter) is accessible on both desktop and mobile apps. Threads is exclusively available as a mobile app.
- Layout: Threads looks like your Instagram feed, allowing you to share content on Threads just as you would on Instagram.
We get it. You’re probably rolling your eyes, asking, "Another social media app?!" Take a deep breath and consider if it’s worth considering giving this new social media platform a shot. It may just help your client. Threads amassed over 30 million users in the first 24 hours. That soared to 100 million in five days.
A substantial pool of customers may be there for your client. Remember that the Threads algorithm is still finding its footing, so you can expect more content and fewer ads in this early stage.
Instagram Threads examples to inspire you
1. Gordon Ramsey
Celebrity chef Gordon Ramsey, known famously for his show “Hell’s Kitchen,” is not as intense on his Threads account. It’s lighthearted, fun, and full of interactive questions.
Source: @gordongram
What relevant questions can you ask your followers to get and keep them engaged?
2. TikTok
Yes, TikTok is its own app. But it’s still on Threads. TikTok uses Threads to reference the best videos, trends, and memes from its own platform.
Source: @tiktok
This cross-posting helps TikTok reach extend beyond its platform. Not every possible customer is on one platform. If using another social media app is good enough for a social media platform, it should also be good enough for you
3. Spotify
Spotify has a massive 1 million followers on Threads. They maintain a page consistent with their Instagram and X (Twitter) feeds, sharing playlists and revealing weekend chart-toppers. They also regularly ask questions to spark engagement, like this one:
Source: @spotify
4. Sephora
Cosmetic retailer Sephora keeps its light and fun on Threads. But now and then, they focus on the importance of mental health. This post allows customers to positively impact mental health. They donate from profits to a foundation for mental health services and education. Collaborations like this help make the world a better place.
Source: @sephora
Instagram Threads best practices
1. Share valuable content
Just like any social media app, content is king. Your content on Threads will be the determining factor for whether or not users will follow your client.
Your content will vary depending on your client’s industry. In general, here are six quick keys to creating valuable content:
- Relevant: Valuable content is relevant to the target audience's interests, needs, and preferences.
- Quality: High-quality content is well-crafted, visually appealing, and error-free. This includes well-written text, compelling visuals, and professional multimedia elements.
- Authentic: Content should reflect the brand's or individual's personality and values, fostering a sense of trust and connection with the audience.
- Consistent: Regular content schedules build anticipation and keep the audience returning for more. Take advantage of scheduling posts on Threads to help you be more consistent.
- Engaging: Valuable content sparks conversations, elicits comments, likes, and shares, creating a sense of community and increasing the reach of the content.
- Utility: Content that provides practical value, solves problems, or offers useful information is highly valuable. It positions your client as an expert.
2. Show off your personality
Infuse your unique voice into posts with authentic posts to show off your client’s personality. Share personal anecdotes, interests, and behind-the-scenes moments for your clients. Use humour and emojis to convey your style.
Remember to respond warmly to comments. Embrace storytelling and showcase your individuality through diverse content. Let your personality shine to create a genuine and relatable connection with your audience.
3. Use GIFs and memes
You can capture followers’ attention and foster a lighthearted connection with your audience by using GIFs and memes. Their visual appeal breaks up content monotony, making posts more shareable. These elements convey personality, create a memorable and enjoyable user experience, and boost engagement.
Threads has an icon to search for GIFs automatically. If you want to insert a meme into your post, use the media icon to attach an image from your device.
Source: no-guilt life
4. Engage your followers
Engaging your followers can separate you from the competition. Ask questions, run polls, and encourage user-generated content. Be responsive and authentic in your interactions. Use eye-catching visuals and concise captions. Host giveaways or contests. Show behind-the-scenes glimpses. This engagement will help followers remember your client is a real, live human.
Wrapping it up
Instagram Threads has emerged as a robust alternative to X (Twitter).
It excels with real-time updates, multimedia sharing, and a seamless integration with Instagram. While comparisons to X (Twitter) persist, Threads' unique features make it a promising avenue for marketing success.
Explore its potential, embrace best practices, and authentically engage your audience to harness Threads for your client's growth. The platform's continually evolving nature makes it exciting for marketers and users alike.
