Free Checkup

Why is storytelling so important on Instagram?

Instagram is packed with people, brands, influencers—everyone is trying to get noticed. So how do you get people to stop scrolling and actually care about what you have to say? It’s all about keeping it real with storytelling. We’re diving into why storytelling on Instagram matters, simple strategies to try, and how you can use it to build a loyal, engaged audience.
Giulia

Why Storytelling Works on Instagram

Forget the idea of “once upon a time.” On Instagram, storytelling is about being real, relatable, and visual. Think of it like telling a friend about something you’re excited about—it’s natural, it’s genuine, and it connects. If you care about sustainability, for example, talk about it! People who share those values will feel connected to you and your brand.

Storytelling isn’t just about showing off products; it’s a chance to connect on a human level. It’s sharing your brand’s passions, values, and dreams so your audience feels like they’re part of something bigger. Let’s say you’re a small eco-friendly brand; when people see your dedication to the planet, they’re not just following a brand—they’re following a movement they care about.

Make Your Stories Visually Compelling

Let’s face it, Instagram is designed for the visual, and stories are the best ways to use this unique feature. Unlike other platforms, where people expect to read, Instagram is all about showing: photos, videos, and graphics bring your narrative to life in a way that helps you capture attention and hold it. You can use Instagram’s visual tools like stories, reels, and carousels to take people on a journey that’s both informative and visually captivating. If you’re sharing a story about how your eco-friendly product is made, for example, a video tour of the process or snapshots of the raw materials can grab the attention of many users.

Key Elements of Engaging Storytelling on Instagram

To tell stories that resonate, there are a few essential elements you’ll want to bring into your content. Think of these as your helpers in creating a memorable Instagram presence.

Show Real People and Faces

People connect with people. Show the human side of your brand—introduce your team, share customer stories, or give followers a peek behind the scenes. If you’re running a small business, show the reality! Maybe it’s a picture of you shipping orders late at night or the messy desk you work at. People love knowing there’s a real person behind the account.

Visual Consistency and Style

Think about what look fits your brand. Earthy tones? Bright colours? Minimalist vibes? Having a consistent style helps people instantly recognize your content. Imagine a coffee shop with a cozy, warm aesthetic. If every post reflects that vibe, people will start to feel a sense of comfort just seeing your content.

Keep It Real and Honest

People can spot authenticity. Talk about your challenges as well as your wins. Maybe you had to switch suppliers to keep things sustainable, or you’re working to reduce plastic in your packaging. Sharing the real journey—mistakes, lessons, and small wins—makes your brand feel human.

Give a Friendly Nudge (CTA)

Ask people to engage! It doesn’t have to be a hard sell—think, “Have any eco-friendly tips? Share in the comments!” or “Save this post for easy sustainability tips!” Small asks make your audience feel included without being pushy.

Top Storytelling Strategies for Instagram

Let’s get practical. Here are some simple ways to make storytelling work on Instagram:

1. Use Stories for Everyday Moments

Instagram Stories are perfect for quick, casual updates. Since they disappear in 24 hours, it’s a great way to share the small moments. For example, share a behind-the-scenes moment of packing orders, celebrating a small team win, or even a sneak peek of new products. These little insights make people feel like they’re part of your journey.

2. Make It a Series

People love a good series, something to look forward to! If you’re a sustainable brand, maybe start a weekly “Green Tip Tuesday,” where you share practical eco-tips with your audience. Or do a “Customer Spotlight” every Friday. When people know there’s regular content they enjoy, they’ll come back each week for it.

3. Use Videos for More Impact

From Reels to IGTV, videos are a powerful way to tell your story. Short “how-to” clips, behind-the-scenes tours, or even day-in-the-life videos help people get to know your brand in a fun, engaging way. If you’re sharing your process for creating an eco-friendly product, a quick before-and-after reel could really show off the transformation and get people excited about what you’re doing.

4. Engage With Interactive Features

Instagram has great features like polls, questions, and quizzes that make it easy to start a conversation. For example, if you’re thinking about launching a new product, use a poll to ask followers if they’d like it. Or, start a Q&A about your eco-friendly mission. It’s an easy way to get input and let people know you value their opinions.

5. Share User-Generated Content

User-generated content is gold. If your customers tag you in their posts, share it (with permission)! It’s social proof that people are loving your products, and it lets your followers know they’re part of a community. Plus, a simple “thank you” to your customers goes a long way in building loyalty.

Growing a Loyal Audience Through Storytelling

Once you’re sharing your story, start tracking what works. Dive into Instagram’s insights to see which posts people engage with the most. This can give you clues about what they want to see more of. Beyond just posting regularly, be intentional with your content, so people know what to expect. Also, don’t be afraid to use hashtags, geotags, or even partner with like-minded brands to expand your reach. It’s a great way to bring more people into your community who genuinely care about what you’re doing.

Ready to Start Telling Your Story?

Instagram storytelling isn’t about fancy campaigns—it’s about building real connections. Whether it’s a quick snapshot, a customer shoutout, or an interactive Q&A, storytelling helps you create a brand that people actually care about. Need help with where to start? Our team is here to help you find easy, effective ways to share your story on Instagram in a way that feels true to you.

Storytelling for Instagram FAQs

Why is storytelling important for brands on Instagram?

Storytelling on Instagram creates an emotional connection with your audience, helping your brand become more relatable and memorable for the clients. It’s a way to go beyond promoting products or services by sharing experiences, values, and unique insights, making followers feel more connected and engaged.

How can I create engaging stories if I don’t have a big budget?

Storytelling doesn’t require a big budget, as in this case authenticity matters more than anything else. Use your phone camera to record genuine moments, introduce team members, or share user-generated content from followers. Free editing apps can also help polish videos and photos without heavy expenses.

How often should I post storytelling content on Instagram?

Consistency is key, but balance it with variety. Aim to incorporate storytelling in at least 1-2 posts per week, but remember that small storytelling elements can be part of almost any content you post. Try to keep followers engaged without overwhelming them.

How do I measure the success of storytelling on Instagram?

Look beyond likes and comments. Track metrics like shares, saves, story replies, and follower growth to understand engagement and reach. Use Instagram Insights to see which content types drive the most interaction and refine your approach based on this data.

What are some common mistakes to avoid with Instagram storytelling?

Avoid focusing solely on products without offering value or emotional context, that will not allow people to create a genuine relationship with your brand! Avoid inconsistent visuals or a random posting schedule, as they can lose your brand’s message. Be cautious about overusing hashtags or CTAs, which can feel overly promotional and reduce engagement.
Educating businesses along their journey.
Facebook-square Instagram Linkedin
Request Checkup
Copyright © 2024 The Roadmap
Free Checkup