In a community-driven market like Athens, GA, (where our office is) success often comes down to relationships. Word-of-mouth still matters, trust builds loyalty, and a shared audience can go much further than a paid ad. That’s why Instagram’s Collab Post and Reels feature has become one of the most powerful tools for local businesses looking to expand their reach and connect authentically.
When used strategically, collab content allows two or more accounts to share a single post or reel that shows up on both profiles and reaches both audiences at once. For businesses in Athens, where connection and credibility are everything, that kind of exposure can translate directly into engagement, leads, and brand growth.
If you live in Athens, you know that everyone knows everyone here.
Real Results in Athens: Entangled Cat Cafe
A perfect example of this is one of MORE’s past social media clients, Entangled Cat Cafe. As their social media manager, we worked with local Athens influencer @lunchwithlind to create a collaborative post between the two accounts. When collaborating with an outside party, MORE provides a media kit to ensure that all produced materials adhere to our client’s brand identity and guidelines.
The collaboration wasn’t a high-budget production; it was a short, entertaining video filmed right in the cafe. Because it was shared as a Collab Reel, it appeared on both accounts and reached followers of each brand simultaneously.
The result?
Entangled’s most popular reel ever, over 400,000 views, and an influx of local followers for both businesses.
What made it work wasn’t just the algorithm boost; it was the trust factor. People who already followed @lunchwithlind saw a recommendation from a source they trusted, leading them to engage with Entangled Cat Cafe, and vice versa. In a market like Athens, where relationships drive referrals, that trust-based exposure is far more valuable than viral reach alone.
Why Collaboration Works (Especially in Athens)
Collab Posts thrive on mutual credibility. Instead of shouting into the void, you’re being introduced to an audience that already trusts the messenger. For Athens, GA businesses, where community and authenticity are core values, that makes all the difference.
Here’s why Collab content is such a game-changer:
- Shared Audiences, Shared Trust
When you co-author a post, both handles appear at the top, and the content is published to both feeds. That means double the exposure, without paying for ads. But more importantly, followers see your brand endorsed by someone they already trust. - Higher Engagement and Visibility
Instagram’s algorithm loves content that gets early engagement, and Collab posts naturally double the potential for likes, comments, and shares. That signals relevance and helps your post stay visible longer. - Community Over Competition
In Athens, local businesses don’t compete the same way big-city brands do. A restaurant and brewery can cross-promote each other. A fitness center can collaborate with a wellness clinic. Everyone wins when audiences overlap and grow together. - Authentic Storytelling
Collaborations let you tell a shared story. It’s one that shows the connection between your services and your community. Whether it’s wellness, hospitality, or retail, these stories are what make people feel part of something bigger.
How to Create a Collab Post or Reel (Step-by-Step)
If you’re ready to try it for your business, here’s a quick guide:
- Create your post or reel as usual on Instagram.
- When you reach the “Tag people” screen, tap “Invite collaborator.”
- Search for and select your partner’s handle.
- Once they accept, the post will appear on both profiles and share likes, comments, and views.
That’s it. You’ve just doubled your reach (or more)!
Pro Tip: Always make sure your collaborator’s audience aligns with yours. A great match is another local business with a similar target demographic but a non-competing service.
For instance, if you were an accountant, we’d recommend partnering with a local insurance agent. -Cole
Track What’s Working
One major benefit of Collab posts is shared insights. Both accounts can view performance metrics such as:
- Reach and engagement rate
- Shares and saves
- Audience demographics
- Clicks to bio or website
By reviewing these insights, you can see how well your content performed with both audiences. If a particular partnership drives strong engagement or referral traffic, make it a recurring collaboration or expand it into a full campaign.
At MORE, we often help clients identify local partnership opportunities that align with their brand story so every collaboration feels natural and strategic.
Turning Collaboration into a Growth Strategy
For businesses in Athens, GA, Instagram Collab Posts are more than a marketing trend. They’re a reflection of what makes the city special: collaboration, connection, and community. Whether you’re a boutique teaming up with a local photographer or a coffee shop pairing with a musician, partnerships spark conversation and credibility.
At MORE, we specialize in helping Athens-area businesses grow through intentional social media strategies that build trust and drive results. Our team doesn’t just post content; we help you find your voice, identify your audience, and collaborate in ways that expand your brand’s impact.
Ready to Grow Through Collaboration?
The next time you scroll through Instagram, think about the other Athens businesses your audience already loves. What if your next great marketing opportunity isn’t a campaign? What if it’s a collaboration?
Let’s make your brand part of the Athens conversation. Learn more about our social media and branding services and see how MORE helps local businesses create content that connects.