If you are familiar with Instagram, you must have seen little blue checks in front of the names of certain users. Perhaps you have been wondering what the blue checkmarks mean. Well, they are known as the Verified Badges that confirm that the account owners are truly what they claim to be. The Verified blue checks show the legitimacy of the accounts and make other users confident to relate with the verified user. Also, the checkmarks confirm that the accounts are genuine, not fake.
In the past, only social media influencers, celebrities, well-known brands, and public figures had Verified Badges on Instagram. But things have changed now and almost every Instagrammer can now verify their Instagram accounts. They only need to learn what it takes to get verified on Instagram. And we will cover the basics of getting a Verified Badge in this article.
Why should you get verified on Instagram?
Of course, the benefits of getting verified on Instagram are not far-fetched. There is always a special and appealing feeling that comes with seeing the small blue checks in front of the names of your choicest brands, celebrities, politicians, etc. The sight of the Verified Badges makes you feel confident as you are certain that the account is authentic.
If you are a micro-influencer, internet marketer, budding musician or just trying to market your product online, getting a Verified Badge will make people feel that you are genuine. Just as you will not hesitate to do business with such verified accounts, other Instagrammers will feel the same way when they see you are verified.
In fact, different surveys have shown that Verified Badges make Instagram users feel better about their interaction with a real individual or brand. The checkmark can also encourage users to interact with the accounts’ content on social media.
Additionally, getting verified on Instagram boosts your social status and popularity. Besides, the Verified Badge can draw more people to your brand as they will consider you as an authentic source of information. Therefore, getting verified on Instagram is undoubtedly worth the time and effort.
Are you interested in getting the Verified Badge on Instagram but don’t know how to do it? We are here to show you everything to do to get verified.
How to get verified on Instagram
Firstly, you should understand that it is not easy to get the Verified Badge on Instagram. Many individuals and businesses have applied for the verification without success. Therefore, you need to know that there is no guarantee that your application will be successful.
However, there are certain things you can do to help your case. As noted by Instagram, your Instagram account must be of public interest to have the Verified Badge. Similarly, it is vital to abide by the Terms of Service of the platform if you want to get the blue checkmark.
Here are other essential prerequisites for getting verified on Instagram:
- Have an authentic and original account
To be considered for a Verified Badge, you must be who you say you are. Therefore, you will be required to provide a driver’s license or photo ID as proof of your identity. However, your Instagram bio must contain the same name on your ID. Otherwise, you will not be verified on the platform.
If it’s a business account, you may need to show proof of a registered business. Other business documents may also be required during the process of applying for a Verified Badge.
- Have a unique Instagram account
In addition to the authenticity of your account, it is also crucial for the account to be unique. Generally, Instagram has a stringent policy about one account for user verification. So, if you operate an account that doesn’t post original content or run fan accounts for your favorite celebrities, Instagram will not verify you. Furthermore, Instagram doesn’t give Verified Badges to meme accounts.
In addition, you need to learn to post regularly when your followers are online. This encourages engagement and will aid Instagram verification.
- Have a completed bio
When it comes to getting Verified Badges, Instagram will only consider accounts with completed biography. Similarly, you must have an attractive, high-quality profile picture as well as some original content. Although you can share content created by others, it should be minimal. In addition, upload Instagram stories and change your profile photo from time to time.
- Have an account that is viewable by the public
If you want Instagram to verify your account, it is crucial to open the profile to the public. In other words, it must be an account that others can view. If you run a private account, you may want to forget about getting the blue checkmark from Instagram.
- Ensure your account is notable and of interest to the public
As long as verification is concerned, Instagram tends to prioritize accounts of notable people, public entities, organizations, businesses, and brands. Let your account have the right exposure and engagement that can make it notable.
Featuring in popular news sources can play a key role in getting verified on Instagram. In addition, utilizing hashtags effectively can help. Also, don’t share too much promotional content on your profile if you want to get verified.
You should also get lots of likes from your followers to increase your chance of getting the blue check. In this case, don’t hesitate to buy Instagram likes as it can aid verification.
A simple guide for Instagram verification
Once the prerequisites are in place, you should do the following:
- Go to your Instagram profile. Look at the top right corner and tap the ‘Menu’ button.
- Tap ‘Settings’ > ‘Account’ on the next page.
- Afterward, select ‘Request Verification’. Here, you will be required to enter your full name, business, and other things.
- Also, you need to upload a clear photo ID and/or business documents. Then, tap ‘Send’.
Notably, you will get a response about the verification within 24 to 72 hours after completing the process.
As long as your Instagram profile satisfies all the criteria, it is almost certain that your account will be verified. People will know that you are the real deal and you can start enjoying all the massive benefits of the Instagram Verified Badge. If otherwise, you may need to evaluate your mistakes and correct them before applying for Instagram verification again.