How to Invite Collaborators on Instagram: A Complete Guide 💌

Discover how to invite collaborators on Instagram and how to create collab posts for your feed and Reels. Also, explore a few tips and FAQs.

The evolving terrain of social media requires more than good content — it demands smart collaboration. Enter Instagram's Invite Collaborator feature, a game-changer for those keen on boosting their reach and engagement. With this tool, harnessing the collective power of creativity becomes easier and more impactful. But how do you get started?

In this guide, we’ll delve into crafting enthralling collaboration posts for both feeds and Reels, with practical tips and FAQs to help redefine your Instagram journey and ascend to new heights of engagement. 



What is an Instagram collaboration post? 🤩

An Instagram collaboration post is when two or more content creators, brands, or influencers join forces to co-create content, pooling their creativity, followers, and engagement. This can range from shared giveaways and shout-outs to joint live sessions or co-hosted challenges. The essence? Mutual growth.

The rising wave of Instagram collabs isn’t by accident. As the platform becomes increasingly saturated, standing out demands innovation. Collaborations amplify reach, offering fresh perspectives to engaged audiences and opening doors to new followers. It's no surprise that many deem collaborations as the alchemy turning digital connections into golden opportunities. Whether you're an emerging artist, a seasoned brand, or a passionate creator, collaborative posts are becoming an indispensable tool in the Instagram arsenal.

Why use this feature: 4 benefits of IG collabs 🤝 

Instagram’s collaboration feature offers a wealth of advantages, propelling your company toward success. By combining forces with like-minded creators, influencers, or businesses, you can amplify your impact and establish a memorable presence in the hearts of your followers. Here are four benefits of adding collaborators to your Instagram content:

• Expanded reach: When you collaborate, you speak to two audiences –– your own and your collaborator's. This cross-pollination can significantly expand your content's visibility, introducing your brand or profile to the masses.
• Increased engagement: Collaborative content often sparks more interactions. When followers see two of their favorite creators or brands teaming up, they're more likely to interact with posts –– from likes and comments to shares and saves.
• Strengthened community bonds: By aligning with like-minded creators or brands, you underline your values, interests, and commitment to offering value, fostering a deeper sense of community.
• Fresh content perspectives: Two heads are often better than one. Collaborations can invigorate your content stream, infusing it with new ideas and styles that resonate with diverse audience segments. It's a creative refresh without straying from your brand's essence.

5 things to know before posting an Instagram collab 📝

Before diving headfirst into an Instagram collaboration, there are foundational checkpoints to ensure a smooth and effective partnership. Here are five things to know:

• Check privacy and eligibility: Not all accounts can readily engage in collaborations. Before planning a collab, ensure your profile is public. Private accounts can’t be tagged in collaborative posts, and note that the collaboration feature may also be region-specific.
• Align brand values: Collaborate with individuals or brands that align with your values, message, and aesthetics. A mismatch can lead to dissonance in content, potentially confusing or alienating your audience. Always research and understand your collaborator's content and ethos before finalizing any partnership.
• Prioritize engagement over follower count: Instead of focusing solely on that follower figure, analyze the engagement rate of potential collaborators. High engagement often signals a dedicated and interactive audience, which can be more valuable than sheer numbers. Remember, quality over quantity!
• Set clear expectations: Before finalizing and posting your collaboration, ensure clear communication between both parties regarding content, post timings, tags, mentions, and other promotional strategies. Setting expectations prevents miscommunication and ensures the collaboration is mutually beneficial.
• Stay updated on Instagram's rules: Instagram has partnership guidelines, especially for paid promotions or advertisements. Ensure that your collaboration adheres to these rules, and use appropriate tags like #sponsored or #ad (if required) to maintain transparency with your audience.

How to make a collaboration post on Instagram 🌟

To expand your creative horizons and engage with other users, you can add collaborators on Instagram. These individuals or entities can contribute their unique ideas and perspectives, enriching your content and fostering a sense of community.

Here’s how to create these posts:

Feed posts

1. Open the Instagram app, and navigate to the "+" icon at the bottom of the screen to create a new post.
2. Select the image or video content you want to feature in your collaboration post from your gallery or take a new one directly through the app, and tap "Next" on the top-right corner. 
3. Craft an engaging caption that complements the collaboration and adds context to the post.
4. To tag a collaborator, tap "Tag people" and search for the account username. This will link their profile to the post and give them credit for their contribution. You could also mention a collaborator in the caption without tagging them by simply using the "@" symbol and their username (e.g., @collaborator_username). Mentioning provides recognition without linking to their profile directly.
5. After verifying all details, click "Share" to publish your collaboration post on your feed for your followers to enjoy.

Note: Tagging a collaborator on Instagram connects their profile to the post, making it visible on their tagged posts section and giving them direct credit. Mentioning, however, only includes their username in the caption without a direct link to their profile. While both methods acknowledge the collaborator’s contribution, tagging provides more direct visibility and engagement opportunities.

For Instagram Reels

1. Open the Instagram app, tap the "+" icon, and select "Reel."
2. Record or upload the video content you want to feature in your collaborative Reel.
3. Add creative elements like music, stickers, text, or filters to enhance the collaboration's appeal.
4. To invite a collaborator to your Instagram Reel, tap "Invite Collaborators" and search for their username to send an invitation.
5. To finalize and publish the collaborative Reel, click "Share" and make it accessible to your followers and the broader Instagram community.

How to accept an Instagram collaboration 🥳

Now that you know how to send a collaboration request to someone, let’s review how you can accept another account’s invitation (because you’re a great Instagrammer, too!). Here’s how:

• Notifications: Once someone initiates a collaboration with you, you'll receive a notification in your Instagram activity feed. Click this notification to view the collaboration request.
• Accept or decline: If you deem the collaboration fit, click "Accept." But if it doesn't resonate with your profile or branding, select "Decline." Remember, once accepted, the post will be visible both on your feed or Reels section and the collaborator's.

Tips for a successful Instagram collaboration 🚀

Instagram collaborations can be one way to skyrocket your metrics. Here are valuable tips to optimize your collabs and elevate your brand’s presence:

• Prioritize collaborations with users with whom you already have a pre-existing relationship, fostering authenticity and seamless teamwork.
• Collaborate with creators whose audience aligns with your ideal user persona, ensuring your content resonates with the right target audience.
• Leverage alt texts on Instagram to make your content more accessible and boost discoverability through improved search engine optimization (SEO).
• Use collaborations for engaging giveaways or co-marketing campaigns, unlocking greater exposure and potential customer acquisition.
• Partner with influencers who sway in your niche, leveraging their influence to expand your reach and credibility.

Frequently asked questions about Instagram collaborations 💯

If you still have a few lingering questions, here are some FAQs to help you demystify Instagram and collaboration invitations.

How do I add an invite collaborator on Instagram after posting?

Unfortunately, once you upload a post or Reel on IG, you can’t invite collaborators. That’s why be extra careful and recheck everything before tapping the "Share" button.

How many collaborators can I add on Instagram?

You can add more than one collaborator on Instagram. The platform allows up to three users to join forces and contribute to a collaboration post or Reel.

Why is my invite collaborator not showing on Instagram?

There could be several reasons you can’t see the feature. One most common reason is a private account. Since the social media platform doesn’t support collaborations with private accounts, you’ll have to switch to a business or professional account.    

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