Did you know that Instagram stories can help you get closer with your Instagram followers and customers? And when people get to know you and your brand, it means you’ll gain friends and their trust.
When people trust you, they’ll be more confident to buy from you!
So how can you make Instagram stories to help you with that?
First, what are Instagram Stories?
Instagram Stories is a feature that lets users post photos and videos that vanish after 24 hours. Content shared to stories also won’t appear on your profile grid or in the main Instagram feed.
So while the photos and videos you publish to your profile will forever be found by anyone willing to look for them, your Stories are ephemeral and only visible for a limited time. Once they’re gone, they’re gone (unless you save them in your Archives). That gives you an opportunity to be more playful and informal with your marketing content – should you wish to be.
Here are four ideas for using Instagram Stories to promote your business.
1. Behind The Scenes
So you’ve decided to join a craft show… engage non-attendees by taking them behind the scenes on all the preparation you’re doing. There’s nothing like giving people a little FOMO to encourage visits next time you are participating in an event.
You might also be surprised how interested people are when it comes to peeping behind the curtain. In an age where consumers are sceptical of traditional marketing, there’s an honesty about peeling your layers off and taking your audience behind the scenes.
That might be a glimpse of your crafting space, a look at your tools or a time-lapse view of your craft show table going up at an upcoming craft show event. Make your followers feel like insiders.
A little quirkiness can go a long way when it comes to memorable marketing. The temporary nature of Instagram Stories gives you an opportunity to showcase your products in a different light.
2. Sneak Peak
Are you creating a new product? Tease it with a Story and let your biggest followers spread the word on your behalf. Build the buzz. Feed the hype machine. Give away one or two things about a killer new feature.
3. Announcements
Are you joining in an upcoming craft show? Are you uploading products to your Etsy account or website this weekend? Then people need to know about it. Instagram Stories gives you a platform for getting the message across loud and clear.
Always be yourself and avoid being too salesy. After all, you want people to engage with your future Stories; and they won’t if they expect a sales pitch.
Platform-specific flash sales on your products. Announcing too-good-to-miss offers via your Stories encourages your followers to look forward to your updates.
4. Sharing Your Life
Sharing a quick IG story video sharing about your experiences and tips add a human touch to your business. You could cut in some shots of your products or services to make sure the brand message hits home. But then again, avoid being too salesy!
Using Instagram story for your marketing strategy is a fresh way to get in touch with your followers. The key, as ever, is to keep your content audience-focused. Stay engaging. Provide value. And try to refrain from publishing too frequently.
Here are some interesting facts from 99firms about Instagram stories and see how big companies used this Instagram feature:
If you want to learn how to use Instagram stories, check this video from 9to5Mac:
Now over to you. Have you tried using Instagram stories? Are you hesitant? What’s stopping you from using it? Share it with us in the comment box below.
- DIY Chicken Wire Jewelry Holder - June 27, 2022
- Jewelry Designer Manager Alternative - December 8, 2019
- 3 Tips To Immediately Boost Your Sales Today - May 12, 2019