As of July 10, 2025, Instagram has begun allowing Google to index public posts from professional accounts. That means your Reels, carousels, videos, and static posts can now appear directly in Google Search—alongside websites, blogs, and YouTube videos.
This is a game-changer for business visibility.
Instagram is no longer just a social platform—it’s officially part of the search engine landscape.
Why This Matters
Google Is Still Where Buyers Start
Before someone books a service or sends a DM, they’re likely Googling:
- “Best makeup artist in Brooklyn”
- “Affordable business coaches near me”
- “Before and after kitchen remodel NYC”
Now, if your Instagram content is indexed and relevant, it can appear directly in those search results—even if the user doesn’t follow you.
You’re Already Creating Content—Now It Can Work Twice as Hard
This update gives your existing content more reach and more return. That before-and-after transformation? That client testimonial carousel? They’re no longer trapped inside the Instagram app.
How to Make Sure Your Instagram Content Shows Up—and Shows Up Well
Step 1: Confirm Your Account Is Eligible
Only public, professional accounts operated by users age 18+ are eligible for indexing.
- Go to Instagram Profile → Settings → Business Tools & Controls → Switch Account Type
- If you see “Switch to Personal” or “Switch to Creator”, you already have a professional account.
- To switch from personal:
Go to Settings → Account Type and Tools → Switch to Professional Account
- Make sure your account is set to Business or Creator
- Ensure your profile is set to Public, not Private
Note: Posts from private accounts or content published before Jan 1, 2020 will not be indexed.
Step 2: Optimize Captions for Search Intent
Google treats Instagram captions like mini blog intros.
- Add important keywords within the first 125 characters
- Be descriptive, not vague
- Instead of “Weekend vibes,” try: “Affordable wedding photography in Brooklyn”
- Write for clarity and context, not just engagement
Think of each caption as a micro-landing page.
Step 3: Add Custom ALT Text to Each Post
ALT text enhances accessibility and helps Google understand your images.
- Before publishing, go to Advanced Settings → Write ALT Text
- Include what’s in the image, what service is being shown, and where
Example:
“Woman receiving acupuncture at holistic wellness clinic in Park Slope, Brooklyn”
Step 4: Use Location Tags for Local SEO
Geo-tagging helps your content appear in location-based search results.
- Tag your specific business location in posts and Reels
- Be specific (e.g., “Long Island City” vs. “NYC”)
Step 5: Use Hashtags Strategically (But Don’t Spam)
Hashtags help Instagram and Google categorize your content.
- Use 3–5 relevant hashtags per post
- Mix broad (#wellness) with niche/local (#brooklynacupuncture)
- Avoid banned or irrelevant hashtags
Step 6: Optimize Your Bio and Link-in-Bio
Your bio is part of your public search footprint.
- Include keywords about your services and location
- Example: “Holistic Esthetician | Organic Facials | Bushwick, Brooklyn”
- Use a branded link-in-bio that points to SEO-optimized content on your site
Step 7: Monitor Results in Google Search Console
If your Instagram is linked to your website, you may start seeing Instagram URLs in Search Console.
- Track clicks, impressions, and search terms
- Use this data to improve your captions, bio, and alt text strategy
Bonus Tips for Service-Based Businesses
- Educational content ranks best: FAQs, tips, and how-to posts get more search visibility
- Use subtitles and voiceover in Reels for better accessibility and SEO value
- Avoid using duplicate captions across posts—Google may devalue repetitive content
Opt-Out Option (If Needed)
If you don’t want your content indexed:
- Go to Instagram → Settings → Privacy
- Toggle off: “Allow public photos and videos to appear in search engine results”
Your 3-Step Action Plan
- Audit your Instagram bio, captions, and alt text for keywords and clarity
- Update your next 5 posts with local keywords, strategic ALT text, and searchable captions
- Embed your best posts on your website to drive cross-platform SEO and visibility