How to Get All the Likes: Advice from an Insta Dance Star

August 9, 2017

If Kalani were to win an award for something besides her dancing, it would be for having the most “like”-worthy Instagram page (@kalanihilliker): It’s jam-packed with behind-the-scenes pics of the “Dance Moms” cast, fashionable photo shoots, and goofy, candid moments. Here, Kalani shares the strategies that got her to 4.2 million followers.

Be genuine.

“I like to post photos and videos of my dancing, but my followers want to see other sides of me, too. People feel more connected to me when they can see what I’m like just hanging with my friends.”

Get to know your followers.

“I love stalking my fans to see the cool edits and amazing drawings they’re creating for me. I try to comment on their posts, and I always hope that one day I can meet them face-to-face.”

Focus on the positive.

“When I see people using social media in a negative way or posting hurtful comments, I’ll just block them. If it still bothers me, I try to remember that there are a thousand lovers for every two haters out there.”

Be a good role model.

“Since I know I’m a big influence on my followers, I try to keep everything I post very positive and encouraging. I’d never put anything online that was inappropriate or mean.”

Remember: It’s not all about the likes.

“Of course it’s cool to have tons of followers, but that doesn’t define who you are. Don’t just dance your best so you can post it on Instagram—dance your best because you love what you do.”

Want to hear more from the “Dance Moms” sensation?
Click here.


A version of this story appeared in the September 2017 issue of
Dance Spirit with the title “How To Be Insta Famous.”