How to Use Stories to Boost Engagement
If there’s one thing I’ve learned about connecting with an audience, it’s that stories matter. Whether you’re an influencer, a content creator, or a small business owner, learning how to use stories to boost Instagram engagement can be a game-changer. Stories are where you can truly connect with your followers, share your personality, and build trust—all while staying top-of-mind with your audience.
I still remember the day I hit "post" on my very first Instagram story. It wasn’t perfect, and honestly, it felt like a shot in the dark. I was sharing a little behind-the-scenes clip of how I styled our living room. The lighting wasn’t ideal, the audio was off, but do you know what happened? People showed up. They started responding, sharing their own styling tips, and even asking questions. That’s when I realized the power of storytelling—it makes your content human, approachable, and irresistible.
If you’re ready to leverage stories to increase engagement and grow your influence, this guide is for you. We’ll cover why stories matter, how to create compelling content, and actionable tips to see real results.
Why Stories Are Essential for Engagement
Stories are unique in the social media landscape. Unlike feed posts or reels, they’re fleeting, often raw, and invite immediate interaction. Here’s why they work so well:
Authenticity Rules: Stories are where audiences expect less perfection and more personality. This is your chance to show the “real you.”
Algorithm Love: Engaging stories keep people on your profile longer, signaling to algorithms that your content is worth promoting.
Connection Through Conversation: With interactive tools like polls, questions, and DMs, stories make it easier than ever to have a two-way dialogue with your audience.
Start with a Hook
Your audience’s attention is precious—grab it fast! The first few seconds of your story should make people want to keep watching.
Use an intriguing question like, “Guess what just arrived in the mail? 👀”
Start with bold text: “Stop what you’re doing—you need to see this!”
Think of this as the subject line of an email—it’s your chance to get them to stick around.
Show Behind-the-Scenes Content
People love a peek behind the curtain. Whether it’s how you prep for a launch, set up your workspace, or brainstorm content ideas, this type of storytelling humanizes your brand.
For example, when I’m prepping for a shoot, I’ll share quick clips of my (often chaotic) process. People love seeing the journey, not just the polished end result.
Use Interactive Features
Instagram Stories offer tools designed for engagement. Use them!
Polls: “Which color should I use—blue or green?”
Questions: “Ask me anything about picking a paint color!”
Quizzes: “What paint sheen should you use for baseboards?”
These features create instant interaction, and the best part? They’re super easy for your audience to engage with, even on the go.
Create Value-Packed Mini-Tutorials
Think of stories as micro-content. Share quick tutorials, tips, or hacks that align with your niche.
If you’re an influencer: “3 ways to style a blazer for fall 🍂”
If you’re a small business: “A day in the life of running a boutique!”
Quick wins make people more likely to follow along, save your content, and engage with future posts.
The Power of Consistency
Consistency is key to boosting engagement with stories. Here are some strategies to stay consistent without burning out:
Plan Ahead: Use tools like Trello or Asana to plan out story content themes for the week.
Batch Content: Record multiple stories at once and save them to your phone for later use.
Create a Routine: For example, share a “Monday Motivation” story or a “Friday Favorites” roundup every week.
Boost Engagement with Strong Calls-to-Action (CTAs)
Every story should have a purpose, and that purpose often includes inviting your audience to take action.
Tap to shop (or visit a link).
DM you with questions or feedback.
Vote in a poll or answer a quiz.
By guiding your audience, you increase engagement and deepen your connection.
Tools to Level Up Your Stories
To make your stories stand out, use tools that add polish and creativity:
Canva: Create branded templates for a consistent look.
Unfold: Add modern, clean layouts to your stories.
InShot: Edit videos for smoother transitions and effects.
StoriesAds: Perfect for creating ads that feel native to stories.
What’s Next?
Now that you know how to use stories to boost engagement, it’s time to put these tips into action. Start small—pick one or two strategies to implement this week, and track your results. Remember, the goal isn’t to be perfect; it’s to be consistent and intentional.
Let your stories be the bridge that connects you with your audience, builds trust, and creates meaningful interactions. With a little practice, you’ll see firsthand how this powerful tool can transform your engagement and take your influence to the next level. If you have the concept down but still a little unsure of your video taking capabilities, check out our course iPhone Photography and Videography. Between all of the tips above and that course, you will have everything you need to confidently create stunning, engaging stories that captivate your audience. Whether you’re snapping behind-the-scenes moments or recording quick tutorials, the right tools and strategies will empower you to show up authentically and professionally. Remember, every story is an opportunity to connect, inspire, and grow—so dive in and start sharing your unique voice with the world!
