How to Get More Engagement on Instagram Stories (With Real Examples)
- Active Toast
- Jun 12
- 3 min read
Instagram Stories may have launched in 2016, but in 2025 — they're still one of the most powerful ways to connect with your audience, build brand loyalty, and drive real sales.
If your story views are dropping, engagement feels flat, or you’re just reposting feed content on stories… this guide is for you.
Let’s break down how to use Stories the smart way.
Why Instagram Stories Still Matter in 2025
You might wonder — are Stories still relevant with Reels, carousels, and now even Instagram Notes?
Yes — and here’s why:
Stories get seen first at the top of your followers’ feeds.
They build intimacy through behind-the-scenes, casual updates.
Interactive features like polls and sliders train the algorithm.
They convert — especially when paired with DMs and limited-time offers.
If you’re not using Stories strategically, you’re leaving connection (and money) on the table.
Common Mistakes That Lower Story Engagement
Before we dive into what to do, let’s talk about what NOT to do:
Posting too many stories back-to-back. → People drop off fast after 4–6 frames. Prioritize value.
No hook in the first frame. → Treat the first frame like a headline — it should stop the scroll.
No interactivity. → Instagram wants engagement. Use polls, quizzes, sliders, etc.
Reposting feed content only. → Stories should feel native and real-time — not recycled.
Not using audio or captions. → Silent scrollers are everywhere. Make your content accessible.
7 Instagram Story Ideas That Actually Boost Engagement (With Real Examples)
Let’s get to the fun part — creative story formats that actually work.
1. “This or That” Polls
Great for product-based businesses.
🛍 Example: A skincare brand posts “Morning skincare or Night skincare?” with a poll.
🎯 Why it works: Low-effort engagement. Plus, you learn about customer preferences.
2. Behind-the-Scenes (BTS)
People love seeing the messy middle.
🎥 Example: A candle maker shows how they package an order — with text overlay like “Guess how long this takes?” + a poll.
🎯 Why it works: Adds transparency, builds trust, and boosts time watched.
3. DM Sticker to Ask Questions
Use the “DM me” sticker for replies.
👩💻 Example: A wellness coach posts “Want to know the 3 habits that changed my life? DM me the word ‘HABITS.’”
🎯 Why it works: Starts 1:1 convos that lead to bookings or sales.
4. Countdowns for Launches or Offers
Creates urgency.
🕒 Example: “Our restock drops Friday @ 10am!” with a countdown sticker.
🎯 Why it works: Adds FOMO. People can turn on reminders and check back in.
5. Slider Stickers for Opinions
Instead of always using yes/no polls.
🔥 Example: “How excited are you for this drop?” with a flame slider.
🎯 Why it works: More playful than polls, and drives emotional engagement.
6. Teach One Quick Tip
One actionable takeaway per slide.
📚 Example: “Instagram Caption Tip: Always end with a question to spark replies.”
📌 Want more tips like this? Grab our SMM STARTER TOOLBOX — it’s packed with templates and checklists to simplify your strategy.
🎯 Why it works: Value-packed and savable.
7. Use the Power of Hooks + Storytelling
People scroll fast. A great hook stops them. Then, tell a short story in 3–4 frames.
💡 Example: “I almost quit Instagram last year. Here's what changed everything.” (Followed by a quick transformation story.)
📌 Need help writing high-performing hooks? Our Hooks That Work in 100+ Ways has a bonus with 100 Instagram Story prompts too!
🎯 Why it works: Hook + curiosity + emotional payoff.
Best Practices to Boost Instagram Story Engagement in 2025
Let’s wrap with some golden rules to apply to ANY story you post:
First frame = Hook. Always start with a question, bold statement, or teaser.
Design matters. Use clear fonts, brand colors, and don’t over-crowd the screen.
Post at the right time. Check insights. Usually mornings or late evenings perform better.
Use native stickers. Polls, questions, countdowns — they matter for reach.
Use captions + audio. Cater to both silent and sound-on viewers.
Include a CTA. “DM me,” “Click the link,” “Tap to vote” — guide your viewers.
Want Story Ideas Done For You?
Creating Stories that connect takes strategy. And you don’t have to do it alone.
Check out these resources:
✅ Hooks That Work in 100+ Ways — includes 100 story hooks and viral caption templates.
✅ SMM STARTER TOOLBOX — get checklists, calendars, templates, and content plans so you never run out of ideas.
Final CTA
Want expert eyes on your Stories strategy? Book a free consultation — we’ll help you craft Stories that connect and convert.
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