Definition: Instagram Stories, often abbreviated as IG Stories, is a type of Instagram content that is only accessible for 24 hours after being shared on the platform.Did you realize that 60% of Instagram users check the app daily?Users continuously engage with content by posting, liking, and commenting on photos shared through this platform. However, aside from regular posts, Instagram Stories offer a unique way to enhance engagement with your audience. Learn more about this feature, including:
What are Instagram Stories?
How to create an Instagram Story?
Understanding Instagram Stories Highlights?
Strategies to create compelling Instagram Stories?
Discover the essentials of IG Stories and how to kickstart your journey with this feature! Instagram Stories allow you to share photos and videos that vanish after 24 hours, fostering a sense of urgency and interaction with your brand.Now that we’ve covered what Instagram Stories are, let’s delve into creating one.Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating IG Stories within the app:1. Access Your Profile PhotoUpon opening the Instagram app, locate your business’s profile icon in the top left corner, labeled as “Your Story.”2. Select Your FormatBefore taking or uploading a photo, you’ll see various formats available. Options include:
Create: This allows you to add text and effects without taking a photo.
Boomerang: Captures a burst of photos that play back and forth in a continuous loop.
Layout: Combines multiple photos into one grid layout.
Multi-Capture: Allows you to take multiple photos simultaneously and post them to your Story.
Level: Ensures your photos are straight with a built-in level indicator.
PhotoBooth: Captures four consecutive photos that play back in a flipping motion.
Superzoom: Adds a fun effect to your video as you zoom in on a subject.
Hands-Free: Allows you to record a video without holding down the record button continuously.
3. Take or Upload Your PhotoWhen you tap on your story, your camera will open. You can either take a photo or upload one from your camera roll by swiping up.4. Add Effects (Optional)Once you have your images or videos selected, you can apply various effects, such as filters, text, and drawings, to personalize your content.5. PostFinally, post your Instagram Story. Once you’re satisfied with your edits, simply tap “Post” to share it with your followers.Now that you know how to create an Instagram Story, you might be wondering if there’s a way to save your Stories for future reference. The answer is yes!Instagram has introduced a feature called Instagram Stories Highlights, which allows you to save your Stories to your profile. To enable this feature, go to your business profile settings. Once activated, Instagram will archive your stories and save them to Highlights for later access.Here’s how to add a Story to your Highlights:You can add as many highlights as you like for your IG stories.With your knowledge of creating Instagram Stories, it’s time to start incorporating them into your business strategy. Here’s how to get started:1. Utilize StickersStickers are a great way to enhance your Stories. You can add various stickers, such as:
Location stickers: Tag your current location.
Time stickers: Add the time to your story.
Mention stickers: Tag a user in your story.
Hashtag stickers: Include a hashtag in your story.
Poll stickers: Conduct a poll in your story.
Countdown stickers: Add a countdown timer to your story.
Rating stickers: Add a rating bar for your photo in the story.
Question stickers: Pose a question, and allow people to type in their answers.
These stickers can help you add more information and create interaction with your Insta Story.2. Post DailyRegular posting on your Instagram Stories is crucial for maintaining audience engagement. It keeps your followers informed about your business’s latest happenings, whether it’s about new products, events, or behind-the-scenes glimpses.By posting multiple times a day, you can keep your audience engaged throughout the day.3. Offer Behind-the-Scenes ContentProviding behind-the-scenes content is an excellent way to engage your audience. Since IG Stories are temporary, this exclusive content can attract prospects and offer a unique perspective of your business.4. Host Flash SalesFlash sales can be effectively hosted on Instagram Stories, as the content disappears after 24 hours. This is an excellent opportunity to drive sales and increase conversions for your business.5. Promote New DevelopmentsUse Instagram Stories to promote new products, services, or events. It’s a great way to inform your audience about updates and build excitement leading up to the launch.Instagram Stories present a new opportunity for your audience to engage with your business. If you need assistance in getting started, WebFX can help.Our team of over 500 marketing experts offers social media marketing services to enhance your online presence. With over $10 billion in sales and 24 million leads generated in the past five years, we know how to create effective social media strategies. Ready to create your Insta Story? Contact us online or call us at 888-601-5359 to discuss our social media marketing services!
