Are you new to Instagram and not sure what to say on Instagram Stories? I totally understand. Between creating eye-catching content and staying up to date on the latest Instagram trends, it can be a daunting task. Keep reading this blog post to learn the best tips for what to say on Instagram Stories.
In this blog post:
Vulnerability Pays Off
First, let’s talk about vulnerability. Now, you don’t need to share every detail of your life on Instagram to grow on Instagram. Especially if you’re trying to sell products or services. But think about the people you follow on Instagram:
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- What do you like about them?
- What kind of content do they share?
- How does it make you feel?
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Most likely they are showing an authentic glimpse at their lives and businesses. At the end of the day, most of us follow people that entertain, educate, and inspire us. That’s exactly the kind of content you want to share on your Instagram account and in Instagram Stories.
That’s why you want to be vulnerable enough to show your life and provide value to your followers. This vulnerability pays off. Followers who regularly see your face on camera, especially in Instagram Stories, will feel like they know you.
Ultimately, when your Instagram followers are making a purchase, looking for a resource, or searching for recommendations for friends … you want them to think of you!
Retention is the Goal
Now, let’s talk about retention in Instagram Stories. Once you grab your followers’ attention, you want to hold it for as long as you can. The best way to maintain your followers’ attention is by planning out your Instagram Stories so you have a:
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- Clear beginning
- Hook
- Middle
- Conclusion
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Further, your conclusion should provide a call-to-action (also known as a CTA). Your CTA should tell your followers what you want them to do. For example, you might say “DM for more information” or “click the link in my Instagram bio to register.”
You never want your followers to have to guess what you want them to do. Trust me, they won’t guess … they’ll just keep tapping through. Holding their attention is a smart way to work with (not against) the Instagram algorithm.
Provide Context
While we’re talking about making your CTA clear, it’s also important to provide context in your Instagram Stories. It’s a really common Instagram mistake as a beginner. Your first Instagram Story clip should always make it clear what you’re sharing and why it will provide value.
For example, maybe you have a special promotion or sale you want to highlight. Don’t wait until the second or third Instagram Story clip to share that information. Use the first Instagram Story clip to establish why your content is worth peoples’ time.
Then, use the rest of your Instagram Story to provide the additional details. That includes your CTA.
Caption or Subtitle Your Instagram Stories
Next, we’re going to focus on the importance of adding captions or subtitles to your Instagram Stories. Did you know that over 85% of people watch Instagram Stories on mute? Just think about how you watch Instagram Stories while you’re on the go.
That’s why it’s important to always add either subtitles or captions whenever you share an Instagram Story. You don’t want to lose peoples’ attention because their phone is on silent.
I recommend either adding automatic captions, a new feature in Instagram Stories, or use the text tool to provide a synopsis of what you’re saying. It’s a small step, but will make a big difference in improving your retention rate.
Remember to Practice
Yes, I know this Instagram Stories tip might seem obvious. But you would be amazed at the number of businesses or brands who film Instagram Stories or go live without practicing. If you’re comfortable in front of the camera, it might not be a problem for you.
But if you’re new to Instagram Stories, practicing before you share can make you significantly more comfortable on video. Whether you’re feeling jitters or 100% at ease, that will come through on camera.
Remember each Instagram Story clip is a representation of your business, so do your best to make them easy and enjoyable to watch.
Don’t Use Too Many Gifs or Stickers
Speaking of making your Instagram Stories easy to watch, let’s talk about adding Gifs and stickers. While they’re an eye-catching creative element, too many Gifs or stickers can be a distraction.
If someone is confused by the context of your Story, or distracted by your creative elements, they’ll just tap through.
Share 1 Instagram Story or Topic That’s 3-5 Clips
Now, let’s talk about the length of your Instagram Stories. When people are new to Instagram they tend to either undershare or overshare, and they struggle to find a balance.
That’s why I recommend sharing an Instagram Story that’s between 3-5 clips. Instead of oversharing, try to focus on one aspect of your day or part of your business.
When you think of your Instagram Story in this strategic way, you’ll feel a lot less pressure to share for the sake of sharing.
Share the Behind the Scenes Truth of Your Business
One very easy way to show your business on Instagram Stories is by sharing a behind-the-scenes peek. As people get to know you better, they’ll want to feel like they have an emotional investment in how your business runs.
This is one of the easiest ways to build trust with your community. That could include:
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- What really happens in someone’s day?
- How does the real estate agent sell a house so quickly?
- How do they get that product made and shipped out the door?
- How does the fitness coach prepare her food?
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Even the smallest aspects of your business can be interesting to your followers. Ultimately, it’s anything that contributes to your business or how you have grown in your expertise. This interesting content will spark great conversations.
Use a Good Filter
Finally, one of the SBZ Team’s favorite things to do in Instagram Stories is use a good filter. No one is camera ready 100% of the time, including our team. A good filter will help you to feel more put together and confident.
You can bust out a few Instagram Story clips, without having to spend 30 minutes getting camera-ready. It’s a huge time saver.
Discover More Engagement Tactics to Grow Your Business Right Now
The sooner you start sharing strategic engagement tactics, the sooner you will have a stronger follow base. Download my FREE Instagram Strategy Guide to discover four strategies to get more followers make Instagram the most successful place to market your business.
