When Instagram first launched Instagram Stories, a lot of marketers immediately stated it was a rip-off of the popular Snapchat feature. Instagram Stories launched August 2 and while a lot of marketers weren’t behind it at first, they are now. Instagram already holds a special place in the social media world (and my heart, if I’m being honest).
The launch of Stories has given the app a whole new usability that it was clearly lacking before. Stories provide Instagram users a place to share posts at a higher frequency while still maintaining their perfect feeds with composed shots.
In a world where everyone wants to have a beautiful, picture-esk feed, with an Instagram grid that is color coordinated, stories are the perfect way to remain authentic both as an individual and as a small business owner. Instagram is positioning the new feature as a solution to over posting.
Okay, yes – Instagram Stories is definitely a competitor to Snapchat. The similarities are pretty obvious so I won’t list them. Snapchat does have unique features that are lacking in Instagram Stories. For example, Snapchat has the facial recognition lenses that are addicting. Snapchat also offers notifications when someone takes a screenshot of your snap.
Instagram Stories has one huge advantage over Snapchat which makes this a real contender: Instagram is part of Facebook which means right out of the gate, they are already up in the race. Instagram has a captive audience and many users have a well-established following.
Since Instagram has been around for a while, you probably have an established audience. If you do, jump on Stories like yesterday. If not, it’s no big deal! The combination of posting more frequently on Instagram and integrating Stories into your routine will help you build your following and influence in no time. Instagram offers hashtags, geotags, and the Discover section all of which increase your chances to be found. Snapchat content can disappear without a trace unless someone knows exactly what (and who) to look for. Here are some basic tips to excel on Stories:
Snapchat has its place but I gotta say, move over! Instagram is crushing Snapchat in users! I still use both Instagram and Snapchat but I have found I get much more engagement on Instagram than I do with Snapchat making Instagram Stories my go-to.
Instagram has become a powerhouse for your personal brand and your small business strategies.