Instagram vs. LinkedIn: Where Should Your Brand Show Up?
WillowTreeTeam
June 3, 2025
Not All Platforms Are Created Equal
If you’re a small business or entrepreneur, choosing the right social media platform can feel overwhelming. You might be wondering, “Should I double down on Instagram or focus on LinkedIn?” The answer depends on who you’re trying to reach, and how you want to show up.
We help brands make this decision all the time. Because while cross-posting sounds efficient, it’s not always effective. Instagram and LinkedIn serve different audiences, favor different content styles, and require different tones of voice. So which is better for your business?
Let’s Break It Down
Instagram is visual, fast-moving, and emotionally driven. It’s ideal for brands that sell to consumers (B2C), prioritize aesthetics, and want to connect through lifestyle imagery, reels, and behind-the-scenes content. Think food, wellness, fashion, creatives, or community-based services.
LinkedIn, on the other hand, is about thought leadership and professional connection. It’s the space for B2B businesses, consultants, coaches, and service providers looking to build trust through expertise. It favors depth, credibility, and conversations that add value.
Both platforms can be powerful but not always at the same time, or in the same way.
So, Where Should You Focus?
Here’s what we ask our clients:
1. Who is your buyer, and where do they spend time?
2. Do your services require education and trust?
3. Are you building an audience of peers or customers?
If you’re trying to showcase depth, share process, or land strategic partnerships, LinkedIn is likely your best bet. If you sell a visual product or want to build community and vibe, Instagram may serve you more.
For most service-based brands, we recommend leading with one platform and repurposing lightly on the other without expecting identical performance.
It’s Not About Doing More—It’s About Doing Better
Many of our clients feel burnt out by social media because they’re trying to “keep up.” But when your content is rooted in strategy, you don’t have to post every day. You can post smarter, not harder. And when your messaging is on point, even one post can ripple for weeks.
Choose Based on Strategy, Not Popularity
You don’t need to be everywhere. You need to be where your message lands, and where your effort moves the needle. If you’re not sure where that is, our social media strategy services help you define your platform priorities—and build a content plan that fits your goals and your bandwidth.
Want to pick our brain? We’re always down for a consultation.