If you have ever posted something on Instagram and then realised you forgot to add a collaborator, you are not alone. It happens to social media managers, creators and even brands with ten people in their marketing team. The good news is that Instagram finally allows you to add collaborators even after your post is live.
For brands, this feature is more than a convenience. It is a powerful tool that increases reach, builds credibility and simplifies campaign tracking. In this guide, we explain how to add a collaborator after posting, why it matters and how brands can use it effectively.
What Exactly Is a Collaborator on Instagram
A collaborator is simply another Instagram account that shares ownership of your post. When you invite someone as a collaborator, the same post appears on their profile and on yours. Both accounts share likes, comments and other engagement metrics. It behaves like a single post published across multiple profiles.
This is extremely useful for brands working with influencers, agencies or media houses. Instead of posting separately and dividing engagement, both audiences see one unified post.
Why Adding a Collaborator Matters for Brands
Many brands underestimate how much of a difference this one feature can make. Here are the main benefits.
Shared Engagement
Instead of splitting engagement between two posts, everything goes into one. This makes your post look stronger to Instagram’s algorithm.
Higher Reach
Your post reaches two audiences at once. It is one of the simplest ways to increase visibility without increasing your ad spend.
Credibility Boost
Appearing on a creator’s profile or a partner brand’s profile signals trust. It shows that both parties stand behind the content.
Easier Campaign Reporting
Since engagement is combined, calculating performance becomes much simpler. No need to compare separate posts or download multiple reports.
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Can You Add a Collaborator After Posting
Yes. Instagram now allows you to add collaborators after your post is published. But remember one important rule. You can only add collaborators to posts you uploaded yourself. If someone else added you as a collaborator, you cannot add more people.
How to Add a Collaborator After Posting

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Here is the simplest step-by-step guide to help you fix your collaborator mistake.
Step 1: Open Instagram
Make sure you are using the latest version of the app.
Step 2: Go to Your Profile
Tap your profile picture in the bottom right corner.
Step 3: Open the Post
Select the post where you forgot to add the collaborator.
Step 4: Tap the Three Dots
The three dots at the top right open your editing options.
Step 5: Select Edit
This lets you change the caption, tags and collaboration settings.
Step 6: Choose Tag People
Inside Tag People, you will see two choices. Tag and Invite Collaborator.
Step 7: Tap Invite Collaborator
Search for the account you want to add. Select the profile.
Step 8: Save
Tap the check mark to save changes. The collaborator will now receive a request.
Step 9: Wait for Acceptance
Only after they accept will the post appear on their profile.
That is all it takes.
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What to Do If It Is Not Working
If the feature is not working, do not panic. Here are some common reasons.
The Other Account Is Private
Private accounts may need to follow you before you can collaborate with them.
Your App Needs an Update
Many issues disappear after updating your app.
Collaboration Settings Are Restricted
Some accounts turn off collaboration requests. Ask them to enable it.
You Are Not the Original Poster
Only original posters can add collaborators.
When Should Brands Use the Collaboration Feature
This feature can be used in many situations to maximise visibility.
Product Launches
When brands work with influencers, a collaborative post ensures both audiences see the product at the same time.
Promotional Reels
Reels already perform well. Adding a collaborator multiplies the reach further.
Testimonials and Reviews
A testimonial shared on both profiles appears more genuine and creates instant trust.
Joint Announcements
If your brand is partnering with another company, a collaborative post gives both of you equal visibility.
For brands that rely on digital communication, this feature is too valuable to ignore.
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How We Help Brands Use Collaboration More Effectively

(Source – Freepik)
While the ability to add a collaborator is helpful, it works best when the content itself is strong. A well-produced video not only grabs attention but also makes people stop scrolling. That is where our team comes in.
At BossWallah, we work with brands to create high-quality videos, plan campaign strategies and manage collaborations with creators. Our studio and production team ensure that your videos look professional, your message stays clear, and your content performs well on Instagram. When good content is combined with collaboration features, the results are far more powerful.
If your brand wants videos that do not just look good but also drive results, we are here to collaborate with you.
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Conclusion
Adding a collaborator on Instagram after posting is easy, fast and incredibly useful for brands. By following a few simple steps, you can expand your reach, increase engagement and make your campaigns more effective. But great collaboration starts with great content. If you want professional video production and smooth execution across platforms, our team is ready to help.