In this article, we’ll show you both ways one step at a time. You’ll also find a screenshot for each step down below, just so you can follow along. Before we get started, do note that you need to have the Instagram app installed, and also be logged in. Once that is set, we can get started.
How to find someone using Instagram search
The most obvious way of finding someone on Instagram is by using the app’s general search function. In order to do that, you’ll need to tap on the magnifying glass icon at the bottom.
On the next screen, tap on the ‘Search’ bar at the very top.
Your keyboard will appear, and you’ll be ready to go. Type in the name of the person, outlet, or whatever else you’re trying to find. It doesn’t have to be that person’s handle (if you don’t know it), but the name it’s identified by. The contact will appear below the search bar, as shown below, so simply tap it.
How to find people who use Instagram from your contacts list
The other way of finding people on Instagram is via the contacts. This, of course, presumes that you already know those people, as they’re in your contacts. So you’ll essentially need to allow Instagram to access your contacts list. Here’s how you can do that. From the main screen, tap your profile icon in the bottom-right corner.
Then hit the three horizontal lines in the top-right corner.
From the pop-up menu, you’ll need to choose the ‘Settings’.
A brand new menu will appear, and the first option in that menu will be the ‘Follow and invite friends’. That’s the one we want.
In the next menu, choose the first option again, the ‘Follow contacts’ one.
A pop-up message will appear on your screen, and require you to allow Instagram to access your contacts, so that it can find more people to connect with. If you’re fine with this, simply tap ‘Allow access’.
