How to Keep and Engage New Instagram Followers After a Giveaway

Getting thousands of new followers from a giveaway is exciting, but here's the reality - most of them will unfollow you within a week if you don't act fast. The first 72 hours after a giveaway ends are make-or-break time. This is when you either turn those new followers into fans or watch them disappear.

The biggest mistake brands make is going quiet after the giveaway. They think the hard work is done, but it's just beginning. Your new followers don't know who you are yet. They followed you for a prize, not because they love your brand… Now you have to give them a reason to stay.

Make a Strong First Impression

The moment that giveaway ends, you need to post something that introduces your brand to all those new people. An intro reel works great - something that shows what you're about, what you sell, and why people should care. This should be short and engaging while still representing you.

Pin a Story highlight that welcomes new followers and explains what your account is all about. Think of it like a mini tour of your brand. Show your best products, your team, or whatever makes you unique. This gives people a reason to stick around beyond hoping to win.

Get People Talking Right Away

Don't just post content and hope people start talking then and there — ask questions in your Stories, run polls, and create content that forces people to interact. The more someone engages with your content right after following you, the more likely Instagram is to show them your posts.