Instagram has introduced a Collab feature that allows users to co-author posts and reels, making content visible on multiple profiles. If you’re wondering How to Add a Collaborator on Instagram, this feature is widely used by influencers, brands, and content creators to boost engagement and expand their reach.
A 2023 report by Hootsuite found that collaborative posts receive 3x more engagement than standard posts. This is because the content appears in the feeds of multiple users, increasing visibility and interactions.
If you want to maximize your audience and improve your Instagram strategy, this guide on How to Add a Collaborator on Instagram will walk you through everything you need to know.
What is the Instagram Collab Feature?
The Collab feature allows two users to share the same post or Reel, meaning:
✅ The post appears on both accounts.
✅ Both users share the likes, comments, and views.
✅ Followers from both profiles can engage with the same post.
This feature is beneficial for brands, influencers, businesses, and content creators looking to grow their audience and engagement.
Benefits of Using Instagram Collabs
1. Increased Reach: Your post reaches both your audience and your collaborator’s audience.
2. Higher Engagement: Since both accounts share interactions, likes and comments increase.
3. Brand Partnerships: Businesses can collaborate with influencers to promote products.
4. Content Co-Creation: Makes it easy for two people to share content without reposting.
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How to Add a Collaborator on Instagram (Step-by-Step Guide)
The Collab feature is currently available for Feed posts and reels but does not support stories or carousel posts.
Step 1: Create a New Post or Reel
1. Open Instagram and tap the + (plus) icon at the bottom of the screen.
2. Choose whether you want to create a Feed post or Reel.
3. Select the photo or video you want to post and tap Next.
Step 2: Add a Collaborator
1. On the caption screen, tap Tag People.
2. Instead of tagging normally, tap Invite Collaborator.
3. Search for the Instagram user you want to collaborate with and select them.
📌 Note: You can only invite accounts that follow you back and have a public account.
Step 3: Publish the Post
1. Once you’ve added the collaborator, tap Done.
2. Add your caption, hashtags, and location if needed.
3. Tap Share to post the content.
Step 4: Wait for the Collaborator’s Approval
- The invited collaborator will receive a DM (Direct Message) notification.
- They must accept the request for the post to appear on their profile.
- Once accepted, the post will show on both accounts, sharing all engagement metrics.
Who Can Use the Instagram Collab Feature?
✅ Public accounts can send and accept collaboration invites.
✅ Private accounts can accept but cannot send invites.
✅ Users must follow each other to use the feature.
Collab Feature Limitations
❌ You can only invite one collaborator per post.
❌ Not available for Stories or multiple-image Carousel posts.
❌ Business accounts may not be able to use it if they have restricted settings.
How to Accept a Collaboration Request
If someone invites you to be a collaborator on a post:
1. Open your Instagram DMs and find the collaboration request.
2. Tap on the post preview to open it.
3. Click Review Request and tap Accept.
4. The post will now appear on your profile as if you had posted it yourself.
📌 If you decline, the post remains visible only on the original poster’s profile.
Tips to Make the Most of Instagram Collabs
Choose the Right Collaborator
Partner with someone who has an audience that aligns with yours. For example:
- Brands can collaborate with influencers in their industry.
- Content creators can partner with other creators in the same niche.
- Businesses can work with local influencers to promote products.
Use Engaging Captions & Hashtags
A good caption should encourage interaction, and hashtags should help reach a wider audience. Example:
🔹 Caption Example: “Excited to partner with @username on this amazing project! Let us know what you think in the comments. ❤️ #Collab #InstagramCollaboration”
Analyze Performance
Monitor engagement metrics like likes, comments, and shares to see how well your collaboration is performing.
A study by Sprout Social (2023) found that Instagram collabs lead to a 40% increase in visibility, making them one of the best tools for growing an audience.
FAQs About Instagram Collaborations
Q: Can I add multiple collaborators to a post?
No, Instagram currently allows only one collaborator per post.
Q: Why can’t I invite a collaborator?
- The user may not follow you back.
- They might have a private account.
- The feature may not be available in your region.
Q: Can I remove a collaborator after posting?
Yes! The original creator can remove a collaborator by editing the post settings.
Final Thoughts
The Instagram Collab feature is an excellent way to increase reach, boost engagement, and grow your audience. Whether you’re a business, influencer, or content creator, using collaborations strategically can help you gain more visibility.
Since collaborative posts get 3x more engagement than regular posts (Hootsuite, 2023), it’s worth incorporating this feature into your Instagram strategy.
So, next time you create a post, consider inviting a collaborator to maximize your reach! 🚀
Would you like help optimizing your Instagram strategy? Let me know! 😊
