Tips for Choosing Instagram Usernames: A Creative Guide to Stand Out

Usernames on Instagram should be chosen carefully to make the perfect first impression. It’s not just a name for yourself: your username is key to your brand and identity, as well as how others will find you on Instagram. No matter what type of account you run, whether it’s as a business or an influencer, or you just love sharing content online, the perfect username can help shape the look of your profile. To create a username that really shines, here are some secrets to success.

1. Keep It Simple & Memorable

Instagram usernames should be pretty simple. A short, catchy name will make you easier to identify and remember. Avoid long phrases, numbers, or complex spellings that don't make sense to potential followers. Think of this as an opportunity to help people notice and remember you easily in a busy feed.

2. Be Unique, But Clear

While originality is nice, your username should reflect who you are. If your Instagram is for personal use, your name or a slightly adapted version of it will look best. If you're an influencer or business, add a specialty that focuses on your personality - fashion, beauty or fitness, etc. - to your username.

3. Avoid Numbers and Underscores

Also, adding numbers or underscores to make the username easier to remember can be attractive, but it can often complicate things. Numbers are harmful when they confuse people or make them forget your handle, or underscores can be annoying to type into a phone unit. Wherever you can use letters instead of numbers, do so.

4. Use Keywords Relevant to Your Niche

When it comes to building a brand, incorporating a keyword into your niche is a great way to do it. For example, if you’re a travel blogger, a name like Wanderlust or Travel will immediately give people an idea of what your business is about. People will be more likely to follow you when your username is relevant to their interests.

5. Check Availability Across Platforms

Consistency is important across social media. If you're serious about building a personal brand or business, make sure your Instagram username is available on other platforms like Twitter, TikTok, and Facebook. Having the same handle across multiple platforms makes it easier for people to find you online.

6. Avoid Using Special Characters

Special symbols like @, #, and $, such as may complicate your username to remember or search. Keep letters only to be as easy as possible. The search engine of Instagram is optimised to find simple alphanumeric handles, so think about it when brainstorming.

7. Add Personal Flair with Wordplay or Alliteration

Be creative and use puns, inspirations, or rhymes in your username. This can make your name catchy and easy to pronounce. For example, a beauty blogger might want to use names like BeautyByBella or GlamWithGrace because it adds character to the account and makes it particularly relevant.

8. Check Spelling and Pronunciation

And before deciding on a username, read it out loud. Does it roll off the tongue? If not, it's best to play around with it. You should also spell check to correct any possible grammatical errors that might confuse your audience when they type your handle into their keyboard. A pronounceable name will ensure that people can find you without any difficulty.

9. Avoid Using Trends That Might Fade

It can be alluring to jump on the latest trendy buzzwords as they rise to the top but they may be fleeting. Choose something timeless that says something about your brand & identity & is going to still look great in a year plus or whatever.

10. Think About the Future

When deciding when to start creating your Instagram content, consider how your account name will change as you create content. Will it be relevant to your future or a change in focus? Choose your username with flexibility in mind (this way you won't have to change your chosen username in the future).

11. Test Your Username for Clarity

Before choosing an Instagram username, check with some of your friends and colleagues to make sure how easy it is to remember and find the username. Sometimes an outside opinion is useful to make sure your handle is easy to use.

Final Thoughts

Your username on Instagram isn't just a name, it's who you are and how you relate to the world. Using these tips, you can ensure that you create a username that is unique, memorable, and authentic to you. Something that best describes you! Whether you're looking to create a personal profile or build a brand, be sure to take your time and choose something that best describes you!