How to Change your Instagram Handle: A Comprehensive Guide
Changing your Instagram handle may seem like a daunting task, especially if you’ve never done it before. However, it can be incredibly beneficial for your personal or professional brand. Whether you’re rebranding, need a domain name available or want to get rid of an unrelated handle, it’s essential to learn the process. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps required to change your Instagram handle, the importance of doing so, how to choose a catchy and unique name, ways to announce your handle change, and how to explain your Instagram handle change.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Instagram Handle
Changing your Instagram handle is a critical decision, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s our step-by-step guide on how to change your Instagram handle:
- Step 1: Open the Instagram App and go to your Profile.
- Step 2: Click the three horizontal lines and select “Settings”.
- Step 3: Click “Edit Profile”.
- Step 4: Type your desired new username into the “Username” field.
- Step 5: Click “Done”, and you’re all set!
It’s that simple – just follow these steps, and your Instagram handle will be changed. However, it’s crucial to note that you can only change your Instagram handle once every 14 days.
The Importance of Changing Your Instagram Handle
There are many reasons why you may want to change your Instagram handle, and it’s essential to understand why it’s crucial for your brand.
Personal Rebranding
Personal rebranding is a significant reason why people often change their Instagram handle. Whether you’ve changed your niche or focus, a new name can help convey the message and signal the direction you want to go with your Instagram profile.
Domain Name Availability
Suppose you want to use your Instagram handle as a website domain name. In that case, you need a unique Instagram handle that isn’t already taken to make your domain name available.
Slow Growth Due to an Unrelated Handle
Having an Instagram handle that isn’t relevant to your brand or niche can be confusing for your followers. It can also slow down your growth. Changing to a name more related to your brand or niche can make it easier for followers to find you and increase your growth.
Real-life examples of Instagram handles that needed to be changed include @spoonfulofben, who changed to @CreativeCoach to better communicate the brand’s approach, @taxespluswater, who switched to @The_Hermione to create a more formal name and clarifying their niche.
How to Choose a Catchy Instagram Handle
Selecting a catchy and unique Instagram handle can make all the difference when it comes to growing your brand and attracting followers. Here’s how to choose the perfect Instagram handle:
Significance of Having a Catchy and Unique Instagram Handle
Having a memorable handle is essential to make a lasting impression on your audience and attract new followers. Your handle is one of the first things potential followers notice when they come across your profile.
Tips on Selecting a New Handle Relevant to Your Instagram Niche
Picking a related name to your Instagram niche or brand can help potential followers understand what you’re all about. For example, if you’re a food blogger, including the word “food” in your handle can help people identify your niche immediately.
Examples of Creative Instagram Handles
Here are some creative Instagram handles to inspire you:
- @AdventurousKate
- @NewYorkCity
- @Gypsea_Lust
- @Tasty
Tips on Preventing Issues with an Already Taken Name
It’s essential to check if your desired Instagram handle is already taken before choosing your new name. If your ideal name is already taken, consider adding a prefix/suffix to differentiate from the original name. If all else fails, use a free name generator tool to come up with a unique handle.
Creative Ways to Announce Your Instagram Handle Change
Once you’ve changed your Instagram handle, it’s essential to let your followers know. Here are some suggestions for announcing your handle change and building hype:
Recommendations for the Best Instagram Post or Story Announcing Your Handle Change
Create an Instagram post or story announcing your new name change and thanking your followers for their support. Be sure to include a before-and-after photo.
Tips on Using Shout-Outs to Create Attention-Grabbing Posts
Collaborate with other influencers who have a similar audience. Shout-outs on stories or posts can help gain exposure.
Explaining Your Instagram Handle Change
Changing your Instagram handle can create some confusion among your followers. Here’s our strategy for communicating the change and showcasing the new name in the brand’s overall message:
Guidelines on How to Explain the Change and Showcase the New Name in Your Brand’s Overall Message
Create a post explaining the motive behind the name change, whether it’s due to personal rebranding, slow growth, or domain name. Let your followers know that it’s still the same brand with a new name. Then update your Instagram bio with your new name to showcase the new brand’s identity.
Optimizing Your Instagram Bio
Update your Instagram bio with your new name and a brief description of your niche and what sets you apart from the competition. This can entice new followers to see what your page is all about.
Conclusion
Changing your Instagram handle doesn’t have to be complicated. We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you understand how to go about changing your Instagram handle, how to choose the perfect name, and how to let your followers know about the change. Remember to communicate the change creatively, and you’ll continue to grow as a brand.
