Instagram Stories: What You Need to Know

If you’re marketing your business online, you’re most likely on Instagram – as it’s one of the top social media networks and has the greatest engagement rate for brands in most industries. While it’s great that you have an account – and perhaps are even posting regularly – are you confident that you’re using the platform to its greatest potential? Instagram Stories, in particular, is a crucial element of your digital marketing efforts. Check out the latest updates to Instagram Stories and how you can expand your brand’s awareness.

1. You can now add hashtags and hashtag stickers to Stories. Instagram is making it easier for people to find Stories – which can now be searched by hashtag. This is a great opportunity to promote your business with an industry-specific hashtag on a color-branded sticker.
2. Instagram is taking a page from Snapchat’s book with humorous filters. Now, you can add silly filters to your face to add a touch of human personality to your business Stories. Of course, this should be used sparingly with a purpose to have the best effect.
3. Instagram LIVE! If you missed last week’s video tip from Sarah, click here to rematch it and learn what you need to know about Instagram LIVE!
4. Handsfree. Now you can record your stories without having to keep your finger on the video button with the newest feature–handsfree!

Now is the time to start leveraging your Instagram presence with Stories. The latest updates allow for greater brand awareness and new, fun ways to connect with your audience. Are you using Instagram Stories? Try posting one per day, and more on days with events!