Instagram Ads 101: A Step-by-Step Guide to Running Ads That Work

Looking to kickstart your paid efforts on Instagram? This guide shares how you can run Instagram ads by boosting posts and by using the Meta Ads Manager.

Mar 12, 2025 - 12:19

Instagram Ads 101: A Step-by-Step Guide to Running Ads That Work

Have you ever wished you could just skip the Instagram algorithm altogether and guarantee your content gets seen by your target audience?

Or, rather than asking folks to click over to your bio to find your products, content, or website, just include a link right in the post?

Well, meet Instagram ads.

They are paid posts on the platform that you can use to promote your business, product, or services and reach new people. Ads appear in the same format as organic posts across Instagram Stories, Reels, Explore, and in-feed posts.

But unlike organic Instagram posts, Instagram ads have a link to redirect users to a website to shop for your products or check out your services. They also have the “sponsored” label. With ads, you’re also not completely reliant on the Instagram algorithm to reach your target audience: You can control (to some extent) the demographics of the audience you want to reach.

If you have the budget, Instagram ads can be an excellent addition to your Instagram marketing strategy. But navigating the ad manager is like untangling a spiderweb. In this guide, I’ll take you from the A to Z of Instagram advertising. By the end of this piece, you’ll be equipped to run Instagram ads successfully (and with confidence!).