Instagram blocking can be an effective moderation tool for personal accounts. However, businesses face unique challenges when blocking followers on Instagram. Blocklists must be meticulously maintained to ensure legitimate customers aren‘t being blocked. For entrepreneurs managing business Instagram accounts, understanding how to view blocked accounts is essential.
In this article, I‘ll share comprehensive insights on viewing your blocked accounts as a business owner. You‘ll also learn Instagram blocking best practices to maintain better relationships with your audience.
Impacts of Blocking Accounts on Business Profiles
As a business consultant who assists entrepreneurs with social media, I always caution clients about the ramifications of blocking followers on Instagram. Indiscriminate blocking can accidentally exclude real customers and lose you business.
According to a 2022 survey by SocialInsider, over 60% of users say they‘d stop engaging with a brand that blocked them on social media. Excessive blocking alienates your audience and damages your reputation.
Additionally, blocked followers reduce your blocker account‘s follower count. For businesses trying to build large, legitimate followings, excessive blocking works against this goal.
However, strategic blocking of abusive or spam accounts improves the experience for customers visiting your Instagram profile. The key is striking the right balance.
How to View Your Blocked Accounts List
Instagram allows business accounts to view a list of blocked accounts. Here‘s how to access it:
- Open the Instagram app and go to your business profile.
- Tap the hamburger menu in the top-right corner.
- Go to Settings > Privacy > Blocked Accounts to view your block list.
Review this list periodically to ensure you haven‘t blocked any legitimate customers. I recommend my clients check their block lists monthly.
4 Tips for Managing Your Blocklist as a Business
Based on my social media consulting experience, I recommend business accounts follow these tips for responsibly managing their Instagram blocklists:
1. Set Blocking Thresholds
Only block accounts exceeding a threshold of spam comments or harassing messages. For example, block accounts posting over 5 unsolicited comments a day. This prevents reflexively blocking engaged followers over minor irritations.
2. Block Temporarily
Instead of permanent blocks, temporarily block abusive accounts for 1-2 weeks. This sends a warning before imposing a permanent block.
3. Unblock Inactive Accounts
Regularly unblock accounts that have been inactive for months. The problems they caused likely won‘t resurface.
4. Mute Before Blocking
Muting is less severe than blocking. Use it for slightly bothersome accounts before escalating to blocks.
When Is Blocking Necessary for Businesses?
Based on assisting clients, I recommend reserving blocking for these circumstances:
- Severely abusive accounts: Sending threats, doxxing, or harassment warrant permanent blocks.
- Hate speech: Block accounts spreading hate targeting protected groups.
- Impersonation: Blocks stop accounts impersonating your brand or employees.
- Illegal content: Blocks limit exposure to accounts posting illegal content.
Conclusion: Manage Blocking Judiciously
Blocking can protect your business Instagram account when used judiciously. But excessive blocking risks alienating customers. Review your blocklist regularly and unblock dormant accounts. Follow the best practices outlined here to use Instagram blocking effectively as a business. With careful blocking management, you can cultivate a safer community that feels welcomed.
