Okay, we get it— with so many different channels and placements, something is bound to slip through the cracks. But before you let it be your Stories strategy, hear us out on why it should be a key part of your Instagram approach.
And we don’t just mean sharing your latest post to Stories (though yes, there is value in that, too!). We mean treating Instagram Stories as a standalone channel where you can maximise engagement with your followers.
Why Instagram Stories matter
1. You can actually reach your audience
Your followers are much more likely to see your content in Stories than in their main feed. Thanks to Instagram’s algorithm, feed posts can get buried quickly, but Stories appear right at the top of the app, making them one of the most visible ways to connect with your audience. If someone has made the effort to follow you, Stories are your chance to speak directly to them.
2. It’s your direct link to web traffic
Want to drive people to your website, a new blog, an event, or a product page? Instagram Stories allow you to add clickable links—something you can’t do in regular feed posts. This makes them a valuable tool for conversions, whether you’re an e-commerce brand, a non-profit, or a service-based business.
3. It’s an engagement goldmine
Instagram Stories come packed with interactive tools like polls, quizzes, emoji sliders, and question boxes. These features aren’t just fun; they encourage participation, spark conversations, and help you understand what your audience actually wants. The more engagement you generate, the more likely Instagram is to prioritise your content.
4. It’s where you can be real and relatable
Unlike your polished feed posts, Stories allow for more spontaneous, behind-the-scenes content. They give your audience a peek into the human side of your brand—whether it’s a day-in-the-life update, a quick thought, or a casual check-in. People crave authenticity, and Stories provide the perfect space for that.
An engagement poll on Instagram Stories for our client, Royal College of Occupational Therapists
How to make the most of Instagram Stories
To add regular text:
- Post consistently – Don’t let days go by without sharing something in Stories. Aim for at least a few updates per day to keep your brand top of mind.
- Use engagement stickers – Polls, quizzes, and question boxes invite interaction and help boost your visibility.
- Mix up your content – Don’t just reshare your feed posts. Add a mix of talking-head videos, user-generated content, behind-the-scenes clips, and real-time updates.
- Include a clear call to action – Whether it’s tapping a link, responding to a poll, or sending a DM, guide your audience on what to do next.
Instagram Stories aren’t just an add-on—they’re one of the most powerful tools for deepening relationships with your followers and driving action. So if they’re not part of your strategy yet, now’s the time to start!
Sarah has been working in social media marketing since 2013 and joined the Social Firefly team in January 2022. Working with some of our biggest clients she makes content planning and creation look easy while delivering on some of our best performing strategies. Outside of work, she's a keen photographer, dedicated swimmer, a certified foodie, dog auntie and travel lover.