"Instagram: The True Founding Story - Building for Believers"

"Instagram: The True Founding Story - Building for Believers"

In the world of social media, Instagram stands out as one of the most popular platforms for sharing photos and connecting with others. But what is the true founding story behind this phenomenon? Let's delve into the unique insights and strategies that made Instagram the success it is today.

The founders of Instagram, Kevin Systrom and Mike Krieger, understood the importance of user experience (UX) and streamlined the app to require as few actions as possible. Unlike other platforms, such as Path, Instagram did not force users to add tags about people or places to their photos. This simplicity made it easy for users to quickly share their moments with the world.

Another key decision made by Systrom and Krieger was to make Instagram public by default, mirroring the approach of Twitter. This allowed anyone to discover and engage with the content shared on the platform. This decision proved to be a game-changer, as Instagram gained 25,000 users on its very first day. It was clear that people were craving real connections beyond just words.

Despite the rapid growth, Systrom and Krieger kept the company lean with only a dozen employees. This allowed them to maintain control and ensure the vision of Instagram remained intact. However, as the platform continued to gain traction, new financing opportunities arose, leading to an offer from Facebook to purchase Instagram for a staggering $1 billion in cash and stock. The founders agreed, but with the key provision that Instagram would remain independently managed.

The incredible rise of Instagram showcases the power of building for believers. By gradually ramping up the commitment curve, you can foster a sense of loyalty and engagement within your community. Lowering the barrier to entry with small asks and gradually increasing the level of commitment generates incremental rewards and keeps members invested.

At Meetup, for example, the approach involved starting with simple actions such as reading a blog post and attending an event before asking new members to host their own meetups. Similarly, Airbnb introduced new members to the platform by having them watch a video about how it works and then encouraging them to book a stay. By starting with these smaller asks, the chances of receiving a positive response to larger requests significantly increase.

To truly understand the dynamics of your community, it is crucial to find the point of Community-Member-Fit (CMF). This is when members consistently provide meaningful value to each other without being asked. To find CMF, it is essential to focus on the people who already have a high level of commitment and are trying to engage in the activities your community offers. These individuals should already be motivated to participate but may need your support or guidance to succeed.

Starting a community does not require a massive following. In fact, you only need a small group of true believers. These individuals will serve as the foundation upon which your community can grow. Instead of targeting already successful event organizers or conference hosts, identify those who are still trying to make their mark in the industry. They possess the motivation but lack the resources or opportunities to succeed. By offering them your help, you can build a community that thrives on shared experiences and support.

In conclusion, the true founding story of Instagram highlights the importance of user experience, simplicity, and building for believers. By focusing on finding CMF within a small group of dedicated individuals, you can create a community that fosters genuine connections and meaningful interactions. Remember to lower the barrier to entry, gradually increase commitment, and provide incremental rewards. With these actionable advice in mind, you can lay the groundwork for a successful and engaging community.