Converting your personal Instagram account to a creator account
Meta (Instagram) recently announced that they will be deprecating the Instagram Basic Display API used by third-party apps to connect to personal Instagram accounts. This means if you currently have a personal Instagram account and would like to continue using services like SnapWidget to display your social media on your website, you will need to convert your Instagram account to a creator account.
Luckily, this is free and easy to do 😀
What is an Instagram Creator Account?
An Instagram Creator Account is a type of professional account designed for people who create content on Instagram. This account type offers tools specifically tailored for influencers, public figures, and content creators to help manage their presence, connect with their audience, and grow their following. However, anyone can use a Creator Account to take advantage of its advanced features for better insights, messaging, and content management.
Instagram Creator Accounts are now available for anyone who wants to grow their content. While these accounts are often used by influencers, public figures, and content creators, they can be beneficial for anyone on Instagram who wants better tools to improve their online presence and connect with their audience. Plus, switching to a Creator Account is free and easy.
Key Benefits of Using an Instagram Creator Account
Detailed Insights: Get access to analytics on follower growth, engagement, and content performance to help you make informed decisions. You can track specific metrics, such as unfollows, and see what type of content resonates most with your audience.
Better Messaging Management: Sort your Direct Messages into Primary and General inboxes, making it easier to manage and prioritize communication. Additionally, you can use message filters to manage requests and keep important conversations front and center.
Content Scheduling and Flexible Profile Controls: Plan posts directly through Instagram for a more consistent social media strategy. You can also control your contact options, choosing to show or hide contact buttons like call or email.
Monetization Tools: Use features like Shoppable Posts, Paid Partnership tags, Live badges, and subscriptions to earn money from your content. Creator Accounts also provide access to the Creator Studio, which makes it easier to manage and monetize your content.
How to Switch to an Instagram Creator Account
If you are currently using a Personal or Business account, switching is simple:
Open your Instagram app and go to your profile.
Tap the three horizontal lines in the top-right corner to open the menu.
Scroll down and select 'Account type and tools' under the 'For professionals' section.
Select the 'Switch to professional account' or 'Switch to creator account' depending on your current account type.
Follow the prompts to select your category (such as blogger, artist, or public figure) and complete the setup.
Customizing Your Creator Account
After switching, you can further customize your account:
Profile Category: Choose a category that best represents you. This will be displayed on your profile to help followers understand your niche.
Contact Options: Decide whether you want to show or hide your contact information, like email or phone number, giving you more control over how people reach you.
Insights and Creator Studio: Explore the Insights section for data on your audience and performance, and use Creator Studio to schedule posts, manage content, and track performance across Instagram and Facebook.
Switching Back to a Personal or Business Account
If you decide that a Creator Account isn't right for you, you can easily switch back to a Personal or Business account:
Open your Instagram app and go to your profile.
Tap the three horizontal lines in the top-right corner to open the menu.
Scroll down and select 'Account type and tools' under the 'For professionals' section.
Choose either 'Switch to Personal Account' or 'Switch to Business Account'.
Follow the prompts to complete the switch.
Why Make the Switch?
Creator Accounts are built for people who make content, but they can be used by anyone. The features help you understand your audience, manage collaborations, and reach more people compared to a standard Personal or Business account. You get better insights, easier messaging management, and access to monetization tools that help you grow your brand and earn from your content.
For more information on making the most of an Instagram Creator Account, check out Instagram's help center.