Intuitive and easy to use, Instagram is in some ways the simplest of the social media platforms. But that doesn't mean that your marketing strategy gets simplified. Much like with Facebook or Twitter, Instagram marketing requires some thought and planning. If you do it right, Instagram can get you far-reaching exposure, a loyal following and a fresh new perspective on your brand. So dig in with these easy and efficient instagram marketing tips, you will be an Insta-expert in no time.

This is true of just about every social media platform you use, but it is never easier than on Instagram. If you have another brand or company whose products you use or whose demographic is similar to yours, share their posts and notice the reciprocity! If you see that someone has tagged your name in their post or used your product and talked about it...give them a shout-out! Check out what others are posting about you, and if you like what they have to say, mention them directly. This kind of community-mindedness may boost someone else's stats, improve another Instagrammer's day, and it will undoubtedly win you Instagram points immediately; Instagram points equal to shares, likes and follows - which equals more exposure for you!

2. Plug into What's Trending

Trending topics are trending for one reason only-they are viral and spreading like fire. Everyone is clicking on them! So of course, your best bet is to create and share content that fits those trends. Don't worry, there are so many trending topics at any given time, you can easily find something that is both interesting and true to your brand. Unlike Twitter, there is no symbol limit, so your hashtags can be plentiful. While you don't want to appear desperate by throwing a dozen tags onto your post, including two or three trending topics can make an instantaneous difference. Trending topics allow you to get found easily and without much effort on your part, they also introduce you as an in-the-know brand. Win-Win!

3. Vary it Up!

Instagram is driven by photos, but that doesn't give you license to be lazy. Make sure to post interesting photos that use various filters, consider different angles and provide a new perspective. In a world where visuals are everything, photography is powerful, so don't skimp. But photos aren't your only tool in your Instagram marketing bag - you also have videos! And graphics! And Quotes! Use all of the above to make your account fresh and engaging. Placing an interesting quote on a relevant image doesn't take long, but it can elevate you from hum-drum to share-worthy.

4. Don't Forget Your Call to Action

Your real estate is a bit cramped in Instagram, so you have to get creative with ways of driving traffic. Make your bio a short, succinct call-to-action; use bit.ly to create a smaller, more digestible URL for your website, ask your followers to tag you in relevant posts and generate new hashtags for contests or interesting initiatives. With a bit of strategy, you can successfully increase traffic to your sites through Instagram marketing.

5. Engage Influencers

More than any other platform, Instagram is full of influencers. These key individuals create such a compelling brand through their posts that they pick up thousands of followers, get sponsorship deals and make headlines on a regular basis. Wouldn't you want that kind of power in your corner? It's easier than ever to find influencers, because Instagram makes new ones every night. Do some research, find influencers that fit your brand and speak to your demographic and then strike up a partnership. It probably won't be free and it may take more than a quick mention, but if successful, you will be tapping into a huge new audience that can't wait to see what you have to offer.

There you have it, five foolproof ways to market your brand on Instagram. The great thing about this platform is that even with planning involved it is fun to use and quickly addictive. It won't be "work" for long!