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How to do a collab post on Instagram

Updated September 6, 2024
Written by Darren Buser

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Ever wished you could double your reach on Instagram without doubling your work? That’s where Instagram Collabs come in.

This nifty feature lets two accounts team up to share a single post or Reel, bringing both audiences together in one place. Whether you're a brand looking to tap into new markets or a creator wanting to boost your engagement, Instagram Collabs offer a fun and effective way to connect with more people.

In this guide, we’ll explore how you can use Instagram Collabs to grow your presence, offering practical tips, creative ideas, and examples to inspire your next move.

And when you're ready to create standout video content for your Collabs, Clipchamp is here to help you bring your vision to life.

What is an Instagram Collab?

Instagram Collabs was first rolled out in October 2021, and it’s been a game-changer for creators and brands ever since. So, what’s the big deal?

Before the feature was released, many tagged Story posts, captions, Feed posts, and Reels would go unseen by followers. Why? Because users scroll through their newsfeeds and Stories quite quickly. People over 25 spend more than 32 minutes a day on Instagram, with those quick scroll-through checks adding up. 

Instagram collab posts tackle this problem by enabling two accounts to share ownership of a single post or Reel, meaning it shows up in both profiles’ feeds. Pretty cool, right? Not only does this give your content double the exposure, but it also combines likes, comments, and engagement from both audiences into one powerhouse post.

Instead of just tagging them and hoping for the best, you can actually co-author the post. Your followers, their followers—it’s all one big happy audience. And the best part? The engagement from both communities flows into that one post, making it a magnet for likes and comments.

3 Easy Instagram Collab ideas and examples

Okay, so now that you know what an Instagram Collab post is - let us help you strategize how to use this killer feature to boost your social media brand. Here are a few uses of the Instagram Collab feature to get your gears turning:

Partner with influencers for product launches

Collaborating with an influencer can be a smart move when you’re introducing a new product. It’s a way to showcase what you’ve got to a different audience, and the influencer’s followers get to see your product through a familiar face.

An example is this Instagram Collab post between eco-product brand, Get Safely, and influencer Kris Jenner - a textbook Instagram sponsorship if there ever was one.

Run a joint giveaway or contest

Giveaways are always popular; teaming up with another brand or creator can make them even more exciting. A joint contest can help you engage your audience while bringing in followers from your collaborator’s side.

Tuck Bedding and bakery Gallz Provisions collaborated on just such a giveaway - asking audiences to follow both brands in order to be eligible. Talk about a clever audience boost hack - just make sure that there is strong common ground between both brands.

Create a how-to or tutorial video

If you’re into making educational content, consider teaming up with an expert or another creator for a how-to video. Whether it’s a makeup tutorial, a cooking demo, or something else, these videos are shareable and work well as Instagram Collab posts.

An example is Matt Damon and Casey Affleck joining Duolingo in a hilarious how-to about Boston slang.

How to Collab post on Instagram

First up, you need to create a great piece of content - if you're looking for help, Instagram video templates give you a head start on inspiration. Now it's time to Collab!

Follow the steps below to learn how to do a Collab post on Instagram. 

Step 1. Open Instagram and click on the +

To get started, open your Instagram account. Tap on the + symbol at the top right corner (or bottom) of your screen.  

Step 1. Open Instagram and click on the +

Step 2. Select your image or video

Next, tap on either Post, Story, Reel, or Live. Select the image or Instagram video you would like to share, then tap Next when you’re ready. Editing options will appear. If you wish to edit your image or video go ahead, if not tap Next. 

Step 2. Select your image or video

Step 3. Tag people

Tap on the Tag People option, then tap Invite Collaborators. Search for the Instagram account you're looking to co-author your post and click their name to add them. When done, click the checkmark in the top right to invite collaborator.

Step 3. Tag people

Note: You can invite up to 5 Instagram collaborators.

After you have published the post your collaborator/s will receive a notification to accept your request or decline the invite.

Bonus step. How to accept Collab on Instagram

If you receive an Instagram Collab post invite, you will receive a DM with the option to Accept. Alternatively, the Collab post will appear in the Tag tab of your profile where you can tap Review and then Accept.

Step 4. How to invite a collaborator on Instagram

Frequently asked questions

Does the Collab feature combine likes and comments from two accounts?

Yes. The collaborator can post the video or image on their profile grid, which will appear in their follower's Feed. Both accounts will view the same comments, likes, and the number of shares. 

Can I collaborate with more than one person on a single post?

Yes, you can Collab with up to 5 Instagram accounts.

Does the Collab feature work for video and image posts?

Yes. Both image posts and video posts have access to the Collab feature. Create beautiful Instagram videos in just a few clicks using Clipchamp Instagram video maker.

Are Instagram Collabs different from tagging?

Yes, an account that creates a feed post with a tag will appear to only its followers—not the followers of the tagged account. The tagged account also doesn't have to accept the tag.

Instagram Collabs offer a unique way to expand your reach and engage with a wider audience on the platform. Whether you're a brand, an influencer, or just someone looking to boost your content's visibility, leveraging the Collab feature can help you tap into new communities and foster deeper connections with your followers.

You can find the approach that best suits your goals and resonates with your audience by exploring different collaboration ideas—from product launches and giveaways to how-to videos and live events. So go ahead, find your perfect partner in creativity, and let the Collabs (and the likes) roll in!

Bonus tip: bring your collab post ideas to life with engaging social media videos. Mastering video has never been easier with a free, feature-rich online video editor like Clipchamp.

Start editing today with Clipchamp for free or download the Clipchamp Windows app

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