In this episode of the Modern Direct Seller Podcast, Instagram expert Jenn Herman joins us to share insider tips on how direct sellers can level up their Instagram game! We talk about how to make Reels work for you (and why they’re great for reach but not always for sales), the importance of being your authentic self to attract followers who stick around, and how to use hashtags and keywords effectively. Jenn also shares trends to keep an eye on as we head into 2025. If you’re ready to turn your Instagram into a tool for real growth, this episode is packed with practical strategies you can start using today!

Connect with Jenn on her website and Instagram, and check out her hashtag e-book, Hashtags Unlocked, to learn everything you need to know about using hashtags NOW.

Time based notes:

0:32 Meet Jenn Herman
4:28 What is Working on Instagram?
9:29 What are Pseudo-Followers?
11:18 Top Instagram Content Creation Tips
17:31 The Power of Direct Messages
19:02 Hashtags & Keywords
21:45 The Future of Instagram
23:50 Jenn’s Favorite Office Supply & Where to Find Her
26:14 Sponsor Message

Instagram Success for Direct Sellers: A Conversation with Jenn Herman

If you’re a direct seller striving to stand out on Instagram, this one’s for you! Recently, we sat down with Jenn Herman—Instagram expert, speaker, and author—to dive into how to grow your brand, build authentic connections, and turn followers into customers. Jenn shared practical strategies that any direct seller can start using today. Here’s a recap of the key takeaways from our conversation.

Why Authenticity Matters
We’ve all heard the buzzword “authenticity,” but on Instagram, it’s a game-changer. Jenn emphasized that your audience wants to connect with you. They’re not just buying your product; they’re buying into your personality, values, and story.

💡 Pro Tip: Don’t strive for perfection. Share relatable, real-life moments, whether it’s your morning routine, behind-the-scenes bloopers, or your favorite product hacks.

The Truth About Reels
Reels are hot right now, and for a good reason—50% of the time people spend on Instagram is dedicated to watching them. But here’s the kicker: Reels are fantastic for exposure, not necessarily conversions.

💡 Pro Tip: Keep Reels fun, engaging, and under 30 seconds to reach new audiences. For existing followers, longer Reels can build engagement. Want to drive sales? Focus on Stories and feed posts.

Content That Converts
Feeling stuck on what to post? Jenn recommends showing your audience the value of your product in a way that highlights your unique personality. Quick, fun, and informative posts resonate best.

💡 Pro Tip: Use your smartphone for photos and videos, stick to your brand’s color palette, and don’t overcomplicate your content. Authentic, on-the-go videos often perform better than over-polished productions.

Hashtags vs. Keywords: The Verdict
Contrary to what you may have heard, hashtags still matter. They’re integral to Instagram’s keyword search feature, helping your posts get discovered by the right audience.

💡 Pro Tip: Combine relevant keywords in your captions with targeted hashtags for maximum visibility.

Trends to Watch in 2025
As Instagram continues to evolve, staying ahead of trends is key. Jenn predicts a shift away from generic B-roll footage to more intentional, relatable content. The focus will remain on building real connections and showing up authentically.

Jenn’s advice is clear: show up, be yourself, and connect with your audience on a personal level. Whether you’re filming a one-take Reel in the carpool line or answering a DM with a quick tip, every interaction builds trust and credibility.

For more tips and inspiration from Jenn, visit her website at jennstrends.com. Ready to put these strategies into action? Your Instagram game just got a whole lot stronger!

Show sponsored by CinchShare: The number one most trusted social media scheduling tool for direct sellers. Start your 30 day trial today with coupon code GAMECHANGER and spend less time posting and more time socializing!