How to Find the Link in Bio on Instagram

"Link in bio" is probably in every Instagram post you see—but finding that link in bio on Instagram can be more challenging than it should be. So where can you find this mysterious link in bio—and what does it mean? And if you're intent on creating your own Instagram bio, how do you do it? Here's a step-by-step guide to help you find the link in bio on Instagram, and how to add your own link into your Instagram bio.

What Does Link in Bio Mean on Instagram?
The link in bio means there is a clickable link in that Instagram account’s main profile that can lead you to their website, product, or any other external page for the full story around that image—but you can't get to it within the actual post caption. (Hence all the confusion around link in bio!)
The reason this happens? Instagram doesn't like to take you off of their website, so any links embedded directly in posts aren't clickable. So people or companies (like, for instance, Real Simple) will add a link to their bio (where links are allowed) that takes you to a full listing of links related to recent content.

To help you navigate—and ensure you never miss another recipe, story, or list of tips from your IG accounts—here's exactly how to find the link in bio on Instagram. (Note that these specific steps and images cater to a mobile user experience, but they translate easily for desktop Instagram use.)

And if you don't have the time or patience to read every step (or just need a brief refresher), below is a quick and handy Instagram video walk-through:
How to Find the Link in Bio
Fortunately, it's just a few clicks to get you from an Instagram post to the bio—and to the info they want you to see. Here's how to do it:

Step 1: Tap the Instagram handle
Once you find an Instagram post you like, look in the upper left corner of your screen for the circular profile photo and account name/handle. In this case, we're using some Real Simple content, so you'd tap the Instagram handle/name to get to the account bio and post grid.
Step 2: Look for the Link in Bio
Once you're in the Instagram bio, look for the link. (It might be mixed in with Emojis, hashtags, and other content that Instagram allows users to put in their bio.) Go ahead and click it!

Step 3: Find the Story You're Looking for
Tapping the bio link will open a new window with a secondary grid. This is where you want to be. It will look almost identical to the original image grid, except that each image in this secondary grid leads to an external link. The newer the post, the closer to the top it'll be.

Don't see the post you set out for? Don't panic. Simply scroll down the grid until you find it. When you do, tap or click on it once to open the corresponding link. (If it's not there, they may have forgotten to add a URL to their Instagram post—it happens.)

Step 4: Enjoy the Content
We made it! A new link will appear on your screen that's ready to read, share, save, copy, etc. To toggle back to the secondary grid and read more bio links (we won't stop you), tap the back arrow in the bottom left corner of your screen; to return completely to the account's main Instagram page, hit the X in the upper left corner.
How to Use Instagram Link in Bio
Adding links to your Instagram bio can be a great way to share the things you love—and it's especially great for promoting your own business (or starting a career as an Instagram influencer).

You can use it send people to other accounts or sites linked to yours, so you can share content that they may like. For instance:

Use it to promote your products or services (or yourself)
If you're selling something, a link in bio can connect people directly to what you want them to see. You can use it to share upcoming sales or promos, share new launches or best-selling products, or offer free samples.

If you're job hunting, you could also use the link in bio to link to your personal website, resume, or LinkedIn account to help people get in touch.

You can also cross-promote from your own personal Instagram to your business Instagram, to ensure your friends and loved ones know how to hit you up for your goods and services.

Share content you've created
Have a new episode of your podcast, or a great new blog post you created? Pop that in the link in bio to help people keep up with the latest things you've created.
Showcase content you're passionate about
If you don't have anything personal to promote, use the link in bio to share something you're really passionate about, whether it's a cause that's close to your heart or your best friend's new business.

Feature contests or giveaways
Who wouldn't want an opportunity to win something? Your Instagram link in bio is the perfect place to promote a giveaway.