What does it mean when someone says "Link in bio" on Instagram?

Maintaining a good social media presence is a crucial part of online marketing. Instagram has become more than just a place to view photos and text your friends. Business owners have taken the opportunity to turn casual Instagram users into customers.

They use many different methods to promote their brand and make a name for themselves. Some of these methods have led to new conventions and new ways of using Instagram. For example, the tendency to post a “link in bio” is closely related to self-promotion.

What is the "link in bio" on Instagram

When someone says "link in bio" in an Instagram post, that's a call to action for the customer. It invites you to visit their profile and view their bio, which contains a URL that takes you to an external website.

Instagram has a specific policy on posting links that may lead users away from their website or app. Although you can post links in your regular posts, users will not be able to click on the URL.

In other words, they will have to copy and paste the link or open another window in their browser and type everything. Since ad space on Instagram is free, it makes sense that they decided to limit it.

The link in your bio is the only clickable one.

Only one link in the biography per user

Many influential people and businesses on Instagram refer you to the link in bio on their posts. They use it to promote their newest product or service. But you can only use one link on your bio page, so you better make it count.

Your Instagram bio is only 150 characters max, so use your words wisely.

If you chose to sign up as a business account and have more than 10 followers, you can also put links in each story. This is an extremely useful feature, but it's only available when your verified account has made it big. If you are just starting to build a brand on Instagram, you should focus on the bio for now.

How to use your Instagram bio link

Since there is only room for one clickable URL on your bio, you need to make the most of it. Once you've captured the attention of customers, you should try to keep them coming back.

Here are some ideas for your bio link:

1. Add a link to your best product. If a product is already popular, it makes sense to put the website in your bio. Pick something that will get people hooked, and then your customers will be inspired to browse the other products you offer. Next, design your website in such a way that users enjoy exploring your other products or services.
2. Promote a new product or a big sale. Use the hype to increase your sales. Don't forget to mention discounts and maybe give promo codes.
3. Give people free samples of your product or host a giveaway. Free stuff always attracts more customers, especially if there is a time limit.
4. Let your followers know who you are. You can set the link to your about page and bring them closer to you.
5. Invite people to watch your video, read your blog, or listen to your podcast. You can use any of these formats to truly connect with your audience. Remember, no one likes blatant, generic ads, but people do like discovering quality content.

How to use hashtags in your bio

Fortunately, Instagram recently added an option to include hashtags in your bio, and these can be hyperlinked. Also, you can link directly to other profiles by tagging them. Here's how:

1. Log in to your Instagram profile.
   
2. Go to your profile page.
   
3. Look for the Edit profile option.
   
4. Click on Bio then simply type @username of the desired profile or add hashtags, starting with #.
   
5. Save changes.
   

Your subscribers can now click on these tags and they will be redirected accordingly. Another pro tip is to create your own branded hashtags, which can direct people to your website.

Why is Link in Bio not working?

If you've had trouble accessing web content by clicking on a bio link, the main culprit is that it wasn't saved properly.

1. Tap the person icon in the bottom left corner of the app
   
2. Press "Edit profile"
   
3. View your web page in a web browser and copy the link (just typing abc.com may not work)
   
4. Copy the URL into the “Website” box
   
5. Press "Done"
   

Once this is complete, your link should turn into a clickable version. If you just enter your website URL, it may not work properly. Copying and pasting the URL directly from your website is a surefire way to ensure the link is accurate.

Do organic links generate traffic?

If you're looking for Instagram analytics, you'll need to upgrade to a business account. Analytics will show you how many people are engaging with your posts, stories, and profile. Although it doesn't show you WHO is visiting, it can give you insight into the effectiveness of your marketing tactics.

Your website host should also provide you with information about traffic to your website, but they may not show you where that traffic is coming from.

To switch to a Business account for analytics updates:

1. Tap the profile icon in the bottom left corner of the app
   
2. Press "Edit profile"
   
3. Tap “Switch to Business Account”
   
4. Tap "Company"
   

Follow the verification and setup methods provided by Instagram. You will receive an email once your account has been updated.

Binding Restrictions

Instagram is very “Big Brother” when it comes to posting links. As stated earlier, even those with Business accounts need 10 followers before they are allowed to post links in their Instagram stories.

If you're wondering why, you only need to know one word for an explanation: spammers.

Thanks to the nefarious actions of spammers, scammers and even trolls, the social media giant has cracked down on content that floods news feeds and ruins user experience. It's actually pretty cool for those using the app to scroll and find out.

For others, like those trying to become an influencer or using the platform to promote their homemade items or freelance work, it's a whole different story. Posting a link in a bio is a workaround for every user.

Link in your park

You are now officially ready to spice up your Instagram bio. Keep in mind that even if your website's homepage is a logical link choice, you can occasionally mix it up and link to something else. Your subscribers crave variety and innovation, so try to be imaginative and satisfy their needs.