Is it impossible to build real relationships with customers on Instagram?

It isn't easy. But it is very possible.

There are three things I do every day to build relationships with my brand's customers.
1. Respond to every single comment.
2. Engage with your fans on their profiles. (not just yours)
3. Engage with the top 10 photos showing in relevant locations and on relevant hashtags.

That is it. This Instagram engagement strategy takes about 30 minutes every day. It is a long term investment that I may not see pay off for years but I'm ok with that. I'm a buy and hold type of investor.