Are you using Instagram marketing to its fullest potential for your ecommerce store? For example, have you used a countdown sticker to promote a sale? Ecommerce marketing that uses Instagram story ideas and the great features offered on this platform will drive more sales and maximize business exposure.
Quality is vital in social media marketing, and it is equally relevant for stories on Instagram. Planning and creating stories is time-consuming. But it is better to publish two quality stories a week consistently than ten that do not connect with your audience.
Here's a list of creative Instagram story ideas you can use to sell more products on Instagram.
Add Links and Shopping Stickers to Your Instagram Stories
Adding links and shopping stickers to your stories is a straightforward way for customers to use your ecommerce platform. Previously, only a limited group of Instagramers could add links to Stories, but it is now available to everybody. Tap the “link” sticker to add your desired link and direct customers to your site.
Shopping stickers, or product stickers as they are also known, can be tagged to specific products in stories. Followers tap on the sticker to learn more about the product, including name, price, and description. Add a link to the story, and a sale can be guaranteed.
Share Behind-the-Scenes Footage of the Production Process
Take your followers behind the scenes and showcase the production process with them. Instagram users love this kind of content. They feel as if they know the “real” person behind the brand, which makes a nice change from the usual stream of products in their feed. And if something funny or cute happens, even better!
What is the great thing about a behind-the-scenes view of your production process? It does not have to be as polished as your standard images. Instagram stories are a great place to show the raw side of your business.
Showcase User-Generated Content in Your Stories
User-generated content (UGC) shows you engage with your community. For example, resharing stories from followers that mention your brand earns goodwill and is a subtle way to show and promote your brand. But before you post any content to your feed, ensure it matches your brand and is of good quality.
Use stickers or text to show your appreciation to followers whose content you choose. To get more content, let followers know what you want to see. Share a hashtag to attach to their image and search for the hashtag. Be courteous and ask for permission before sharing posts to your profile.
Add a Countdown Sticker to Create Buzz
Add a countdown sticker to promote a sale, product launch, or event. These stickers create a sense of urgency and sharpen interest in your item. Countdown stickers are added just like other interactive stickers. The difference is it counts down to a date and time you set—and your countdown sticker can have its own followers.
Yes, those interested in the event or sale can subscribe to your countdown! They can request a reminder when the countdown is complete and join the event or buy sale items. They can even reshare it into their account.
Let an Instagram Influencer Take Over Your Stories
According to a report by Linqia, a leading influencer marketing company, Instagram continues to be the premier platform for influencer marketing. When you choose an influencer to take over your stories, ensure they fit your brand’s personality. Consider using an Instagrammer who is already talking about your brand or products.
The best influencer is not necessarily the one with the most followers. Instead, look at an influencer with followers who are genuinely engaged. Genuine engagement will result in followers asking questions and even tagging their friends in comments. It will generate a higher return on investment (ROI) for your ecommerce business—which is the purpose of Instagram marketing.
Share How-to Stories
Sharing “how-to” stories on ways to use your products keeps potential customers interested. You can even share stories about new and innovative ways to use the product.
“How-to” is perfect for the Instagram Stories sequential format. Short educational content, from baking a cake to beauty tutorials, can be engaging. It is also a pleasing alternative to the standard video or blog post. It might even establish you as an industry expert.
Post Testimonials
Posting customer testimonials proves that a product works well in “real life.” If there is a product or service people are hesitant to use, testimonials might motivate them to make the purchase or engage in the service. It also shows customers that you care enough to read their feedback and value it.
An alternative to directly posting testimonials on Instagram is highlighting customer feedback while adding your thoughts and insights. But, again, the effort you put in shows you care about what your customers think.
Sales Teasers
Sales teasers provide just enough information to make people curious. Everybody likes a mystery and wants to be in the know. They are hooked if you post enough information to make them wonder about the sale. Adding a hashtag is an easy way to spread the news about the sale. And remember those countdown stickers!
FAQs about Ecommerce Instagram Stories
How can Instagram stories help my ecommerce brand grow?
Instagram Stories provide a dynamic, interactive way to engage customers with exclusive content like behind-the-scenes looks, product teasers, limited-time offers, and user-generated content, all of which build brand loyalty and drive sales. Stories are also a great tactic for boosting brand awareness and helping you reach new audiences.
What are the best types of content for Instagram Stories for ecommerce?
Great content for ecommerce includes product demos, customer reviews, polls, quizzes, behind-the-scenes glimpses, limited-time sales, and exclusive offers, all designed to engage your audience and encourage purchases. These best Instagram story ideas will keep your followers engaged. Consider using hashtags to increase visibility and incorporating gifs or stickers to make your content more engaging.
Should I use Instagram Stories for product launches?
Yes! Instagram Stories are perfect for product launches. They offer an immediate way to create excitement using countdown stickers, sneak peeks, and exclusive promotions that drive urgency and encourage customers to act quickly. You can also post a story introducing your new product with a new post, using Instagram stories to show off your new collection in a fun way.
How can I engage my audience with Instagram Stories?
Instagram Stories are perfect for product launches. They offer an immediate way to create excitement using countdown stickers, sneak peeks, and exclusive promotions that drive urgency and encourage customers to act quickly. You can also post a story introducing your new product with a new post, using Instagram stories to show off your new collection in a fun way.
How often should I post Instagram Stories for my ecommerce brand?
Consistency is key. Aim to post 3-4 times a week to keep your audience engaged without overwhelming them. Regularly posting quality content, like Instagram Reels, will help maintain interest and keep your brand in mind. Also, consider using Instagram Stories to collaborate with influencers or other brands to give your audience more variety and appeal to different customer segments.
Contact Us for More Ideas to Get You Started
WSI is a digital marketing agency that takes the time to understand your organization and customers to recommend a strategy based on your business needs. Need help with social media services or digital marketing? Want to expand your Instagram marketing or get more Instagram story ideas to get you started? Contact WSI World today.
