How to Optimize Your Instagram Profile (Step-by-Step)

Want more Instagram followers? Start by fixing your profile.

Most people waste their bio, use the wrong name, and don’t realize they’re invisible in search.

Here’s how to optimize your Instagram profile the right way in 4 easy steps with screenshot examples.

TLDR / Key Summary

• Add a keyword to your display name so Instagram shows you in search
• Use a simple profile photo: face + bold background
• Write a bio with what you do, proof, and a CTA
• Use a deep link, not a regular link

Now let’s break it down.

4 Steps to Optimize Your Instagram Profile

Step 1: Use an SEO Display Name

What it is: The bold name that shows up under your profile pic.

This is not your username. This is your searchable display name. Instagram uses it to decide who you are and what kind of people should see your content.

How to do it right:

• Use your full name
• Add a niche keyword next to it
• Think: “What would someone search to find me?”

Example:

If you’re a fitness coach for moms, your name could be:

Sarah Johnson | Fitness Coach for Moms

Why it works:

It helps the algorithm categorize you. It also makes you pop up in search when someone types your niche.

Step 2: Add a Scientific Profile Picture

What it is: A clean, recognizable image that stands out in a feed.

How to make it work:

• Use your face (clear and well-lit)
• Use a bold, solid background color
• Go to pfpmaker.com to auto-generate one
• Pick a photo where you look confident and trustworthy

Best colors for engagement (according to UX data):

1. Red
2. Orange
3. Yellow
4. Green
5. Blue
6. Purple

This is not the best example, but if you use PFPMaker, you'll see their bright options when you remove the background:

Here's the test... Which one of these stands out to you:

Pretty obvious the attention the middle one gets... Update yours! Next step!

Step 3: Write an Optimized Bio

Your bio has three lines. That’s it. Don’t waste them.

What to include:

• What you do (short and clear)
• Proof that you’re good at it (social proof, result, etc.)
• A call to action that makes people click your link

Example:
💪 Helping moms lose weight without dieting
🏆 Helped 1,200+ clients hit their fitness goals
👇 Watch my free 3-step meal prep guide

Why it matters:

People decide to follow you in seconds. This tells them who you are, why they should trust you, and what to do next.

Step 4: Add a Deep Link (Not Just a Regular Link)

This is the most important part.

What is a deep link?

A deep link is a URL that takes the user directly to a specific page or action—like a video, calendar, or product—without opening Instagram’s in-app browser.

It opens in Safari, Chrome, or the native app right away, so there’s no friction.

That means more people take action instead of bouncing.

Why it matters:

If you just use a basic link (like your homepage), Instagram adds friction. The user has to tap again, wait, and most of them just go back to scrolling.

What to use instead:

Use a deep link tool that jumps straight to your:

• YouTube video
• Calendar booking
• Freebie download
• Product page
• Newsletter signup

This is something we're not doing a great job on (intentionally), but if we wanted to create less friction for people to work with us, we'd send them to a calendar page like this:

Final Thought

Don’t overthink it. This whole setup takes less than 10 minutes.

✅ Add an SEO-friendly name
✅ Use a bold face pic
✅ Write a 3-line bio with a CTA
✅ Deep link them to value

Once you’ve got that dialed in, everything else you post performs better.

If you need help with social media marketing, there's a nice orange button in the top right for you!