Getting Verified On Instagram Was a Waste of Money

Let me regale you with the tale of how I, in my pig-headed determination, wasted money (less than $50 lol) by getting verified on…

Artwork created by Javonne Steward in Midjourney and Canva © 2023

Let me regale you with the tale of how I, in my pig-headed determination, wasted money (less than $50 lol) by getting verified on Instagram. Ah, the things we do in the pursuit of brand awareness!

So picture this: I have big dreams of becoming a media sensation, a star shining brightly in the vast digital universe. I thought to myself, “What better way to catch the attention of the local news stations in Houston than by having that coveted blue check on my Instagram account?” I also read some reports and viewed videos on YouTube that the blue check would increase your reach and engagement. I’m sold, here I go….

In my assertive confidence, I believed that the verification badge would serve as a golden ticket for my publicist, the one I had shelled out my hard-earned money to hire (who later breached our contract and blocked me. YES I know. I was shocked too. Read all about that story here). I imagined them strutting into the news stations, waving their magical wand (or perhaps a sleek smartphone) and saying, “Look here, folks! We’ve got a verified Author, Speaker, and Coach ready to grace your screens!”

But alas, reality had other plans for me. As I reflect upon it now, it’s quite amusing how I bought into this illusion. The verification process itself was a breeze, although they required personal information as if I were applying for a top-secret government clearance. I played along, thinking it would be worth it in the end.

And so, after a few hours of submitting my required info, Instagram bestowed upon me the illustrious blue check. I felt a rush of excitement, envisioning myself on television screens across Houston, the city buzzing with anticipation. But as time went on (it was just 3 months yall), it became abundantly clear that the verification badge held no magical powers to open doors or grant me access to the newsroom’s inner sanctum.

It turns out that local news stations could care less about my Instagram verification status. They are more interested in compelling stories, newsworthy events, and genuine human connections. My blue check was about as useful as a paper umbrella in a hurricane.

Looking back, I can’t help but chuckle at my naïveté. I had fallen prey to the allure of social media vanity, thinking that a little blue checkmark would be my ticket to local celebrity. I thought my reach would be widespread and social media engagement would drastically change. Oh, how wrong I was! Everything was the same as before.

So, my dear reader, learn from my folly. Don’t waste your hard earned money on Instagram verification in hopes of impressing a publicist (who may run off with your money) or gaining favor with the local news stations. Focus on honing your craft, creating remarkable content, and building genuine relationships. The path to success lies in authenticity and hard work, not in some virtual badge of approval.

Stay determined, stay focused, and remember: the only verification that truly matters is the one you give yourself. #noexcusetoday

Let me know your thoughts about getting verified on Social media. Have you considered it? Are you loving it? Please share below.

-Javonne

PS: If you’ve been looking for a community to join, check out the No Excuse Today Club. Click Here.