Ah, the blue tick – that tiny badge on Instagram that holds a surprising amount of clout. It’s a symbol of authenticity, a mark of being a public figure or a brand that matters. But how exactly do you land yourself one of these coveted blue ticks on your Instagram profile, and what about the connected app, Threads? In this guide, we’ll break down the two main ways to get verified in 2023, with a special focus on the new twist introduced by Meta.
The OG method: Requesting verification through Instagram
This is the traditional approach, where you convince Instagram itself that you deserve the blue badge. Here’s what you need to know:
- Meeting the criteria: Instagram keeps its verification requirements a little hazy, but they generally look for accounts that represent well-known public figures, celebrities, or brands. You’ll need a strong online presence with a loyal following and be at risk of impersonation by others.
- Filling out the application: Head to your Instagram settings and navigate to “Account” and then “Request Verification.” Here, you’ll fill out a form that asks for your full name, username, and a category that best describes you (like musician, actor, or athlete). You can also include links to news articles or websites that mention you, further solidifying your legitimacy.
Remember: Verification through this method is free and entirely at Instagram’s discretion. There’s no guarantee of getting the blue tick, and the process can take weeks or even months.
The new player: Meta Verified Subscription
Here’s where things get interesting. Meta, Instagram’s parent company, introduced a subscription service called “Meta Verified” in 2023. This paid option allows eligible users to get verified on both Instagram and Threads.
How it works: If you see a “Meta Verified” option in your settings, congratulations! This means you’re eligible to subscribe. The process involves submitting government ID proof and paying a monthly fee (prices may vary by region). Once approved, you’ll receive the blue tick on both Instagram and Threads.
Is it worth it? This depends entirely on your goals. If you’re a business or influencer looking to boost your credibility and establish yourself, the blue tick can be a valuable tool. However, keep in mind that verification through Meta Verified doesn’t necessarily translate to increased reach or engagement. It’s simply a way to showcase authenticity.
Here are some additional things to consider:
- Not everyone has access: Meta Verified might still be in a limited rollout phase, so you might not see the option in your settings just yet.
- Be wary of scams: There have been reports of fake verification services. Remember, the only way to get verified is through Instagram itself or the official Meta Verified program.
Threads: The blue tick piggyback ride
If you’re wondering about Threads, the good news is that verification works a bit differently here. Once you get the blue tick on your Instagram through either method (free request or Meta Verified), it automatically applies to your Threads account as well. This is because Threads is essentially an extension of your Instagram profile.
Beyond the blue tick: Building authenticity
While the blue tick is a nice badge to have, it shouldn’t be your sole focus on Instagram. Here are some additional tips to build a strong and authentic presence:
- Focus on quality content: Create engaging and visually-appealing content that resonates with your target audience.
- Interact with your followers: Respond to comments, answer questions, and participate in conversations to build a community.
- Partner with other accounts: Collaborate with influencers or brands in your niche to expand your reach.
- Be transparent and genuine: Let your personality shine through and connect with your audience on a personal level.
Remember, the blue tick is just a symbol. True success on Instagram comes from building a loyal following and creating a space that resonates with your audience.
