Thriving Stylist Podcast - Episode #397: 6 Instagram Updates for Stylists and Salon Owners

Release Date: August 4, 2025

Host: Britt Siva, Social Media & Marketing Strategist for Hair Stylists

Introduction

In episode #397 of the Thriving Stylist Podcast, host Britt Siva delves into the latest Instagram updates that are crucial for stylists and salon owners aiming to optimize their social media presence. Highlighting six significant changes, Britt provides actionable insights and strategic advice to help beauty professionals navigate the evolving digital landscape.

1. Speeding Up Instagram Reels

Timestamp: [XX:XX]

Britt introduces the first update: the ability to speed up Instagram Reels. This feature allows users to play Reels at twice the normal speed by tapping and holding on either side of the video. While Britt considers this update as less impactful since user adoption is currently low, she acknowledges its potential benefits for creating more dynamic and engaging content.

Notable Quote:
"If you get somebody to watch 15 seconds of a reel, that's a win." [XX:XX]

2. Clickable Links in Reels for Meta Verified Users

Timestamp: [XX:XX]

The second update Britt discusses is the introduction of clickable links in Instagram Reels, exclusive to Meta Verified accounts. Meta Verified allows users to purchase a blue checkmark, granting them access to additional features such as multiple clickable links per Reel. The pricing tiers range from $14.99 to $349.99 per month, depending on the number of links.

Britt expresses skepticism about the value of purchasing verification, noting that the initial promise of increased reach hasn't materialized despite the feature's availability. She also highlights user dissatisfaction with the promised enhanced support, especially in the wake of Meta's workforce reductions.

Notable Quote:
"The weight of importance [of verification] is down to basically zero." [XX:XX]

3. Scheduling Instagram DMs

Timestamp: [XX:XX]

The third update empowers users to schedule direct messages (DMs) on Instagram. This feature allows stylists and salon owners to manage their communications more effectively, ensuring messages aren't sent during inappropriate hours. Britt shares insights from her X Club retreat, emphasizing the importance of respecting personal boundaries and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Notable Quote:
"If you're DMing me all night long, it says something about your relationship with boundaries." [XX:XX]

4. Editing Your Instagram Grid

Timestamp: [XX:XX]

Britt explores the ability to rearrange posts within the Instagram grid. While some users might find value in curating a more cohesive aesthetic, Britt questions the practicality of this feature. She argues that the essence of social media lies in real-time, authentic connections rather than meticulously curated feeds.

Despite her reservations, she acknowledges that if stylists desire a more organized grid for psychological satisfaction or brand consistency, this feature offers that flexibility.

Notable Quote:
"I think we've kind of lost the magic of what social media was supposed to be about." [XX:XX]

5. Google Indexing of Instagram Content

Timestamp: [XX:XX]

One of the more significant updates is Google's decision to index public Instagram content, including Reels, carousels, captions, alt text, and geotags. Britt initially anticipated this as a transformational change but found the practical impact to be more of a "drop in the bucket." Currently, Google indexes highly visual and educational content, such as how-to guides and tutorials, rather than focusing on local small business searches.

For stylists, this means that creating educational and intentional content increases the likelihood of appearing in Google search results. Britt emphasizes the importance of aligning content strategies with these indexing trends to enhance online visibility.

Notable Quote:
"If you've been in thriver society, it's all the stuff we've been talking about the whole time." [XX:XX]

6. Trial Reels

Timestamp: [XX:XX]

The final update Britt covers is the introduction of Trial Reels. This feature allows users to test new content types without impacting their main feed. When posting a Trial Reel, the content is shown to a random audience and remains separate from the user's main grid. If the Trial Reel performs well, users can choose to publish it permanently.

Britt sees this as an excellent opportunity for stylists to experiment with innovative content ideas without risking their established aesthetic or audience expectations.

Notable Quote:
"It's a really great way to do that." [XX:XX]

Conclusion

Britt Siva wraps up the episode by reinforcing the importance of adapting to Instagram's evolving features to maintain and grow a successful styling business. She encourages listeners to leverage these updates thoughtfully, aligning them with their overall marketing strategies to achieve tangible results.

Closing Quote:
"Happy business building and I'll see you on the next one." [End of Episode]

Key Takeaways:

• Adaptability is Crucial: Staying updated with Instagram's features can provide stylists with tools to enhance their online presence.

• Strategic Use of Features: Not all updates will significantly impact every business. It's essential to evaluate which features align with your marketing goals.

• Focus on Quality Content: Especially with Google's indexing, creating educational and visually appealing content can improve searchability and attract new clients.

By understanding and implementing these Instagram updates, stylists and salon owners can better navigate the platform's changes, ensuring their businesses remain competitive and thriving in the digital age.