How to Use Instagram Stories to Connect With Your Audience

Instagram Stories aren't just for influencers and endless photos of your trip to Japan.
They’re one of the easiest ways to build real connection with your audience, without overthinking it.

They’re fast, informal, low-pressure and brilliant for showing the human behind the business.

The best part?
They disappear in 24 hours. So if you cringe, it’s gone tomorrow.

Here’s how to use Stories to build trust, connection, and consistency, even if you hate being on camera:

Show what your actual day looks like

You don’t need to wait for a launch or a photoshoot.
Just show up.

Working from the kitchen table? Packing orders? Running between client calls? That’s the stuff people love to see. It makes your business feel relatable, real, and trustworthy.

You’re not a faceless brand, you’re a real person doing real things.

That’s what builds loyalty.

Use the stickers – they’re there for a reason

Polls. Questions. Sliders. Quizzes.

These aren’t just gimmicks, they’re conversation starters.

Ask your audience what they’re struggling with.
Get feedback. Make it fun. Let them vote on something silly.

People are more likely to engage with a button than a blank reply box.
And every tap helps your reach, too.

Talk to the camera but keep it scrappy

You don’t have to deliver a TED talk.

Try this:
Pick one thing you’re thinking about.
Look into the camera. Speak for 15 seconds. Done.

The more you do it, the easier it gets. And the more people see your face, the more they trust you.

Not ready to speak? Add a caption or a photo with a quick thought. It still counts.

Behind the scenes = gold dust

What are you working on? What decisions are you making? What’s stressing you out?
People love getting a peek behind the curtain.

It makes them feel included, like they’re part of your journey.

And that creates connection way faster than a polished post ever could.

Consistency > perfection

You don’t need a content calendar for Stories. You need a rhythm.

Maybe it’s a Monday morning check-in. A “what I’m working on” midweek update. A Friday reflection. Or just daily snippets of life behind the scenes.

Whatever works for you just keep showing up.

It’s not about being polished.
It’s about being ever present.

Instagram Stories aren’t about going viral.
They’re about showing up, being human, and building trust.

And that? That sells.

Need help figuring out what to say (or how to say it without cringing)?
That’s where we come in.