Can developers use Instagram to attract new clients? What should they post there?

Instagram is a primarily visual social media platform.

It could work well to show off projects (especially with the new ability to upload multiple images to a single post). Each post could represent a single project with an accompanying story with the post. There is the limiting factor that Instagram doesn't allow direct links to be shared within posts.

Alternatively, it could be a 'Behind the Scenes' look at projects that you're working on and your design decisions.

This is something I'm still figuring out myself, but I've found that sharing my past projects there is ok - but sharing little bits of behind the scenes always has more engagement. Using these BTS posts to share a little bit of your expertise can really position you as someone who is knowledgable and can best help them solve their problems.

Plus, people buy from people, so it's always nice to get to know a little more about the developer you want to work with. It's the only way to know if it'll be a good fit or not.