Interested in some best practices for Stories? We've got you covered.
1. Be Consistent, But Don’t Overwhelm
The Stories algorithm favors active accounts, so posting regularly keeps you top of feed. Aim for a consistent cadence—around 3–7 frames a few times per week is a good starting point. Keep each story concise and visually engaging to prevent viewers from tapping out early.
2. Educate Through Storytelling
- Stories are a powerful space to deliver quick, digestible knowledge. Try:
Sharing 1-minute breakdowns of financial topics (think: “3 Things to Know About Roth IRAs”) - Creating FAQ sessions using the Questions sticker
- Highlighting seasonal topics (tax deadlines, year-end reviews, etc.) using countdowns or timelines
Use clear visuals and captions for accessibility—many people watch with the sound off.
3. Add Interactive Elements
Interactive stickers aren’t just fun—they drive meaningful engagement. Consider using:
- Polls: Gauge interest in topics (e.g., “Do you know how your 401(k) is invested?”)
- Quizzes: Make learning more engaging (e.g., “What’s a fiduciary?”)
- Question boxes: Invite followers to ask about topics you’ll cover in future posts
4. Show the Human Side of Your Work
Instagram is visual and personal by nature. Don’t be afraid to share moments that humanize your role. Ideas include:
- “Behind-the-desk” looks at your workday
- Celebrating a team milestone
- Participating in community or volunteer events
Remember: relatability builds connection, especially for younger investors who value transparency.
5. Organize with Highlights
Your best stories shouldn’t disappear. Use Highlights to:
- Collect frequently asked questions
- Showcase educational mini-series
- Archive timely topics (e.g., market updates, budgeting basics)
Label Highlights clearly and use branded icons to maintain a professional appearance.
6. Optimize for Visual Appeal
Make your stories scroll-stopping:
- Use high-quality images and videos
- Keep text readable: large, high-contrast fonts
- Incorporate brand colors and logos for a consistent look
- Try tools like Canva for pre-designed templates.
7. Review What Works
Instagram’s analytics show how your Stories are performing. Key metrics to monitor:
- Reach – how many unique accounts saw your Story
- Replies – shows direct engagement
- Taps forward/back – indicates whether users are skipping or re-watching
- Exits – signals where you may be losing attention
Use this data to refine your strategy and focus on content that resonates most.
Final Thoughts
Instagram Stories aren’t just fleeting updates—they’re an opportunity to build trust, share knowledge, and humanize your practice in a space where your audience already spends time. With the right blend of consistency, clarity, and creativity, Stories can become one of your most effective digital tools.
Sources
- Brandwatch. Mastering Instagram Stories: Essential Tips for Engagement and Growth, May 2025.
- BlackRock. Social Media Marketing for Financial Advisors, March 2025.
- Sprinklr. Top Instagram Story Ideas for Every Industry, February 2025.
- We Think North. The Ultimate Guide to Instagram Stories, May 2025.
- Later. 21 Instagram Stories Hacks to Boost Engagement in 2025, March 2025.