We’re living in a time where everything is going digital. From commerce to education, thereis nothing that you can’t find online. Speaking about the increased digitalization in every aspect of our life, it is not surprising to see businesses spending more and more on digital marketing to further themselves and increase their revenue.
Businesses can now thank their numerous social media platforms for providing them with a massive audience. Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram are among the most-used today, and there is no reason why you, as a business, shouldn’t consider promoting your brand on these platforms.
Instagram and Facebook Stories
Instagram and Facebook keep introducing new and exciting features – ones that not only keep their existing users engaged and involved but attract new users every day. A recent feature that has taken everyone by storm is Instagram Stories and Facebook Stories. These features allow users to post quick snaps and video shots for everyone to see.
The best thing about these stories is that they enable the users to keep their friends updated about their activities in real-time. Although Instagram and Facebook stories are automatically deleted after 24 hours, you can save them to a “highlight” on your page which is a great way for future visitors to get to know your brand better. Not to mention it is fun to look back on this as a business owner.
How Can Businesses Benefit from the Story Feature on Instagram and Facebook?
It is no hidden fact that users are actively using the Instagram Story and Facebook Story feature. You may not realize this, but using the story feature can be extremely beneficial for your business. Most businesses today have a presence on Instagram and Facebook, all for one simple reason – better reach and visibility. So, why not use the Story feature for some added benefit?
Let’s have a look at why utilizing Instagram and Facebook stories can be critical to marketing today.
Stay on Top
Stories appear at the top of your screen when you log in to Instagram and Facebook. Using the Story feature, you’ll always be on top of your customer’s feed. Your story will be the first thing they see on their newsfeed. Therefore, utilizing Instagram and Facebook Stories can help you stay on top, help you remain top of mind as soon as one of your customers or potential clients open one of these social media platforms!
Create Excitement
Like we mentioned earlier, Instagram and Facebook Stories are only available for 24-hours, and this is exactly what makes them so compelling. You can take advantage of the fear of missing out (FOMO). Uploading important and interactive content to your stories, like an announcement of a new product launch or sharing the behind-the-scenes of an important event, will create excitement and engagement. Viewers may even share the stories among their friends and ask them to watch it too – now isn’t that what you want?
Stronger Connection with Your Audience
One of the biggest benefits of utilizing Instagram and Facebook Stories for businesses is a stronger connection with the audience. When you allow your audience inside your business, they’ll feel more connected to you. For example, if you’re opening a new store, you can share a sneak peek of the store opening ceremony preparations, or you can take them with you to the launch of a new product.
Your customers will feel like they’re an important part of your brand and hence, will follow you more closely. Once you manage to develop that connection with your audience, you’re already halfway there to getting some new customers on board!
More Fun
The audience isn’t always up for reading long, marketing-oriented posts on your Instagram and Facebook profiles. Most viewers don’t even have time to spare to go through your posts. People use Instagram and Facebook on the go, and you need to come up with a way of getting your customer’s attention in those few seconds.
Instagram and Facebook Stories enable you to do just that! You don’t have to worry about uploading the perfect post. You can post random stuff and experiment with things. Use filters and themes or add effects to your post in an instant and post to your story. The audience will find your content a lot more engaging and fun. The best thing is – it takes a matter of seconds to post on Instagram and Facebook Stories.
Increased Traffic to Your Website
Leaving intriguing sneak peeks on your Instagram and Facebook stories will tempt viewers to visit your website for more details. Once you reach a certain amount of followers, you can include links in the stories- known as a “swipe up” feature. This makes it even simpler for the viewer to get directed to your website without having to open a browser specifically. While you are growing your following- leverage the “link in bio” feature to create ease in story viewers accessing your website.
Customers love convenience, and this level of convenience is bound to show your customers that you’re looking out for them, which will make them WANT to visit your website. At the end of the day, increased traffic to your website is what counts, right?
Builds Trust
Advertising your business through Instagram and Facebook stories is a great way to build trust. The viewers view your stories mindfully and willingly. If they click on the provided link, they don’t do it out of any compulsion. It’s all out of their own free will. So, if you’re looking for ways to build trust with your customers, Instagram and Facebook stories are a great way to go about it!
Closing Word
Until today, you might have thought that Instagram and Facebook Stories were a feature meant for entertainment. But now you know they can be an integral part of your marketing strategy. So, what are you waiting for? Start posting to your Instagram and Facebook Stories right away! If you are overwhelmed by the many avenues to market your business or find social media to be daunting, there are many resources for you to help navigate this.
Reach out to a local marketing firm that specializes in social media and find one that is willing to show you the ropes. Local Image in Portland has experience consulting with clients to get platforms set up and with making sure that engaging and compelling content strategies are in place. On the other hand, if you want nothing to do with social media but know you need it for your business, they will happily help you manage these platforms as well.
There are many resources online but know that you are not alone in the journey of promoting your business!