Instagram is one of the most powerful means for online brands to connect with their customers and followers. Instagram Stories are particularly valuable features, as they enable businesses to curate sequential content that can help to create a sense of urgency; a critical role in such a competitive environment. So, it should come as no surprise that well-known firms such as Starbucks, Whole Foods Market, LEGO, and even NASA are leveraging this time-sensitive content to their advantage. Let’s look at seven takeaway suggestions which will enable you to promote what it is that you have to offer.

1. Tutorial and How-To Videos

Any professional social media agency London has to offer will always recommend employing how-to stories. This approach will simultaneously educate and entertain the viewer. As a result, your brand appears more transparent and trustworthy.

2. User-Generated Material

Customer testimonials are another excellent way to showcase what your brand has to offer. They also provide you with an objective means to highlight some of its primary benefits without appearing too “salesy”.

3. Behind the Scenes

Customers are often curious to know what makes a brand “tick”. In this respect, showing what goes on behind the scenes is a worthwhile approach to consider. These types of stories can be used to showcase product development, client relations or even in-house events such as an office party. Either way, this strategy will provide your business with a decidedly human touch.

4. Creating a Sense of Urgency

One of the most traditional marketing strategies involves creating a sense of urgency. This approach is perfectly suited for Instagram Stories when we consider the fact that the posts themselves expire within 24 hours of when they were originally posted. Here are some useful ideas to consider:

  • Limited-time offers
  • Online coupon and QR codes
  • BOGO (buy one, get one) opportunities

Visitors are more likely to take some form of action if there is a limited time. This will also encourage them to check back with your Instagram feed on a regular basis in order to ensure that they do not miss any deals.

5. Utilise Imagery

It only stands to reason that you should highlight your stories with bright, high-definition and eye-catching graphics. This will help to grab and maintain the interest of the reader. Furthermore, make it a point to choose imagery that is related to the story in question.

6. All About Interaction

It is wise to embed interactive elements (such as emojis, question stickers and outbound links) within your stories. These will help to engage the reader while providing you with a passive means to promote what it is that you have to offer.

7. Proactive Advertising

Any well-respected Facebook advertising agency will highlight the importance of actively promoting your posts and this is just as relevant with Instagram. Keep in mind that only 40 per cent of users are aware of Instagram Stories, so it is a good idea to notify them of any updates so that they can become followers. Word of mouth goes a long way in this day and age.

Please feel free to bookmark this page if you require a bit of inspiration when creating and posting your next Instagram Story.