Oh, the creative canvas that Instagram Stories offers! Confession time: When this feature first debuted, I was hesitant to get on board.
Part of that reluctance involved considering if I could sustain sourcing content in the ideal format (vertical photos and short video clips) for another area of Instagram, not to mention what type of content I would craft to differentiate it from the rest of my business social media. However, Instagram Stories have proven to be a fun and strategic creative asset in mine (and others’) social media content strategies. And, the best part? Your Instagram Stories don’t need to be complicated to be fun and effective!
Unsure or just beginning? Here are a few Instagram Stories angles that I take that might help you get your creative ideas flowing, too!
Sharing behind-the-scenes updates: Whether it’s my (very paper and pen!) class creation process, or showing my latest hobby project (and sometimes Pinterest fail!),Instagram Stories provide space to share candid photos and video clips that might not otherwise make it into your social media calendar, but that still showcase an important part of your personality. Tip: Add text overlay to your Instagram Stories to provide context, but be concise and ensure the font is easily readable.
Engaging with followers: Receiving numerous meaningful comments on Instagram posts isn’t always a reality, but not necessarily because your followers don’t want to engage with you. It could simply be the format or timing, and Instagram Stories allows followers to weigh in on all kinds of things by offering quick engagement opportunities. Tip: Use the poll sticker to ask your followers for their opinion on something you’re making, such as the fabric pattern.
Educating in small segments: The fast pace of Instagram Stories means this feature can translate well for simple tutorials that result in quick wins for my students. Tip: Break up a DIY project’s process into multiple easy-to-follow steps.
Announcing updates: Whether it’s a teaser about an upcoming product release, or a reminder to swipe up for an IGTV tutorial, Instagram Stories are a great way to position these announcements. Tip: Instagram Stickers, such as the “countdown” feature, provide both a countdown and reminders to followers about an upcoming event or product launch.
Bottom line: If I’m able to find creative ways to leverage Instagram Stories, then I know the possibilities are truly endless for my friends in the DIY and crafting industries!
Ready to begin exploring Instagram Stories? Here are a few more tips:
- Browse others’ Instagram Stories for inspiration (not to copy!), even if they’re from other industries.
- Brainstorm which aspects of your creative process, techniques or materials could be showcased using Instagram Stories.
- Get comfortable with the features and placement. (Register for my session, “Instagram Stories: Understanding What Goes Where & Creating Strategic Stories,” at Creativation 2020 for hands-on practice and support!)
- Just think of the different Instagram Stories layouts and elements as strategic materials or ingredients like you would in any other creative project!
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As the owner and head trainer at FunnelCake Social Media, Anna believes there’s too much beauty in this world not to share! She combines this passion with her more than 10 years of expertise in marketing, guiding creatives into social media bliss. When she’s not teaching social media, you’ll likely find her traveling, reading and trying out new Pinterest projects (successes and flops documented on Instagram at @funnelcakesocialmedia!). Learn with her at Creativation 2020 during “Instagram Stories: Understanding What Goes Where & Creating Strategic Stories” and at a round table discussion about Facebook Groups. Until then, take advantage of her resources at www.funnelcakesocialmedia.com.