Introduction
In mid-2020 Instagram added the ability for users to pin comments on an Instagram post. This enables you to take the most valuable comments from other people on your posts and move them to the top. Instagram makes it possible for you to pin up to three comments on one post. The only downside is that you can’t pin your own comments on your posts. In this article I’ll show you how to pin comments on an Instagram post using the Instagram app for iPhone, iPad and Android devices. Examples of all instructions in the steps can be seen in the YouTube video below.
Steps to Pin Instagram Comments on iPhone or iPad
- Launch the Instagram app on your iPhone or iPad, and then tap to view the comments on the post where you want to pin specific comments.
- Perform a short, slow swipe from right to left across the comment you want to pin to bring up a menu. Be careful not to do this too quickly or you’ll delete that comment.
- Tap the “Pin” icon in the menu, which looks like a thumb tack. That specific comment will be moved up to the top of the comments, and will now feature a pin icon next to it. Repeat this process to pin up to three comments. Going forward you can unpin a pinned comment at any time by performing the same slow swipe from right to left across that pinned comment to open the menu again, and then tapping the “Pin” icon. Tap “Unpin” in the Unpin Comment window to verify that you want to unpin that comment. That comment will be unpinned.
Steps to Pin Instagram Comments on Android
- Launch the Instagram app on your Android device, and then tap to view the comments on the post where you want to pin specific comments.
- Tap the comment you want to pin to highlight it, and then tap the “Pin” icon in the menu that appears on the screen. That specific comment will be moved up to the top of the comments, and will now feature a pin icon next to it. Repeat this process to pin up to three comments. Going forward you can unpin a pinned comment at any time by tapping the pinned comment to highlight it again, and then tapping the “Pin” icon. Tap “Unpin” in the Unpin Comment window to verify that you want to unpin that comment. That comment will be unpinned.
5 Reasons to Pin Comments on Instagram
1. Highlight Positive Feedback
Pinning positive comments showcases the best reactions to your content. It sets a positive tone for other viewers. When new followers or potential followers land on your post, the first thing they’ll see is positive engagement. This can make your content seem more appealing and valuable. It’s also a great way to acknowledge and appreciate your active followers. By highlighting their positive feedback, you foster a stronger community. This encourages more interaction, which in turn boosts your post’s visibility due to Instagram’s engagement-driven algorithm.
2. Control the Narrative
Controlling the narrative of your post is crucial in shaping public perception. By pinning specific comments, you direct new viewers’ attention to the message you want to amplify. This could be a clarification of a common misconception or an emphasis on a key detail in your post. Pinning a comment that aligns with your intended message helps guide the conversation. This ensures that the discussion remains on topic and reflects your brand’s values or the post’s purpose. It’s particularly useful during a promotional campaign or when addressing sensitive topics.
3. Encourage Quality Interactions
Pinning insightful or in-depth comments encourages others to leave thoughtful responses. When followers see that high-quality interactions are valued, they are more likely to contribute meaningful content themselves. This can significantly enhance the quality of the discussion on your posts. It turns your comments section into a hub of rich interaction rather than just a string of emojis or one-word responses. Over time, this can help build a more engaged and informed community. It also increases the time users spend on your post, which is favorable for your content’s reach.
4. Boost Engagement
Pinning comments can directly boost engagement on your posts. It prompts the pinned comment’s author and their followers to revisit your post, potentially leading to additional likes and comments. This increased activity signals to Instagram’s algorithm that your content is engaging, which can improve your post’s visibility in followers’ feeds and on explore pages. Also, it can inspire other followers to comment in hopes of getting their comments pinned, creating a cycle of ongoing engagement.
5. Manage Crisis
In times of crisis or when dealing with negative feedback, pinning a comment can be a strategic move. You can pin your own comment as a response to clarify any issues or misinformation. This ensures that your side of the story is the first thing people read. It helps manage the situation proactively rather than letting negative comments dominate the narrative. This approach can mitigate potential damage to your brand’s reputation and maintain trust among your followers. It’s a transparent way to handle criticism and show that you value feedback and are committed to resolving any concerns.
