Your brand presence on social media is represented by your Instagram username. It is how users find you, remember you, and access your content. But what if you like a specific Instagram handle, and it is already taken?
It is frustrating to lose your dream username, whether you are a brand, influencer, or small business. Nevertheless, do not fret too much, though, as in that guide we will show you how to go about that process when a username you want on Instagram has taken off, as well as how you can make your name as you wish purely through legitimate means.
Why Instagram Usernames Matter
It is also quite important to learn what role a username has on Instagram before getting.
- ✅ Brand Recognition: The familiar handle everywhere improves your presence on the internet.
- 🔍 Searchability: A plain, easy-to-remember username makes it easier for people to be able to find you.
- 🤝 Credibility: A properly aligned handle instills confidence among followers and potential customers as well.
In case the username of your choice is occupied, what you can do best is to strategize on it.
Step 1: You need to discover whether this username is taken or not.
To start it, you would need to click on the profile of a desired username. Does it possess activities or not?
Active Account: This is an account that is a poster, active, or recent.
Empty Account: He or she does not have a profile picture or post anything, or has not posted in years
On the other hand, it can be abandoned, which later you can have the opportunity of having; nevertheless, Instagram does not accept any request to render a username unless apparent and reasonable reasons are provided.
Step 2: Try Alternative Username Variations
In a case where the particular username is absent, devise the following plans:
- Have it in mark or underscores: @ brand.name, @brand name
- Make use of hashtags: @brandmarketing, @branddigital
- Shortened name: @AGMarketing instead of @AllGoodMarketing
- Channel at @: Attempt with regard to the brand @getbrand, and @brandofficial @thebrandco
- These variations save your brand name and, on the other hand, render your handle rare and alive.
Such differences will preserve your brand and ensure that your handle is unique and free.
Step 3: Reach the Current Owner of the Username (Professionally)
Provided that one of the real users happens to be the handle (but these users have not engaged in any activity), you may message them directly (using DM) or send a message to any of the email addresses they might have provided in the handle (assuming that they have provided some).
Remember:
- Get brief and courteous.
- Be aware of the reasons why you want the handle.
- Grant restitution in applicable cases.
- They are not even obliged to react to every one of them and Instagram does not act as the mediators in sales of names and it is worth trying
Step 4: Mark a Trademark Claim (where suitable)
If you happen to own a trademarked brand name and someone is abusing your brand name on Instagram, then you might as well have a case to present a complaint against the site.
Do this in the following way:
- Go to the Trademark Report Form of Instagram
- Provide all the documents necessary in the legal realm.
- Give evidence of ownership and logically address your claim.
- In case of success, Instagram can change the username to your profile.
- Do this only when you have a registered trademark that another person is infringing.
Step 5: Single out the Availability of Usernames
Sometimes, inactive accounts get deactivated or banned, and their usernames become available. Use tools like:
- Namecheckr
- Instant Username Search
- HandleHunter
You can also set Google Alerts or manually check availability every few weeks. If it opens up, claim it immediately!
Step 6: Domain and Handle Security in Other Locations
To prevent future branding issues:
- Claim your brand across platforms, buy the matching domain, and strengthen your online presence with our SEO & Content strategies..
- Buy the matching domain for your brand.
- To configure more quickly, use social handle reservation.
This helps you become consistent about your brand and enhances cross-platform SEO.
Bonus Tips to Grow Your Instagram Brand Even if Others Have Taken The Name
Design a good bio of includes your brand name, niche, and link in bio.
- Put your profile photo with logo or branding colors.
- For more expert marketing insights, explore our Marketing Resources blog.
- Make the best use of hashtags in all posts, making them branded.
- Write the names of other brands, or partners or services using the full name of your brand.
A somewhat changed handle will not make you lay off a lasting and rich Instagram status.
Do Not Allow an Allocated Username to Reduce Your Growth
Thieving away your coveted Instagram name is not the end of it. Creativity and strategy can help you develop a name in the market. Whether you negotiate it with the guy using it variations or a trademark claim, is up to you.
Are you looking to Build Your Brand on Instagram?
At ALLGOOD MARKETING, we assist businesses and creators in developing their online images, whether selecting and branding or conducting massive Instagram marketing campaigns.
Do you want to grow your brand? Wait no more and contact us now, and our professionals will make your business shine on social media!
