151 easy Instagram story ideas for online entrepreneurs and small business owners to attract leads
Do you think Instagram Story ideas are dead because now it’s all about Reels and Instagram Stories haven’t got that much reach?… Think again. Instagram Stories is where you nurture your followers into a close community of fans. Sounds great, isn’t it!!! But now… you want to use Instagram Story ideas to attract leads but you don't know what to post... Get ready... you're going to discover soooooo many… in fact 151!
Some online entrepreneurs only have Instagram story ideas to post about their products or services, and that... is a mistake. If you want to attract leads, you need to be more creative than that.
You need to create a connection that leads to engagement. That's the power of your Instagram stories ideas.
So I want to make it easy for you!
You'll never run out of Instagram story ideas again! Here are 151 easy Instagram story ideas for online entrepreneurs and small business owners to attract leads. These ideas will help you stand out from the crowd and attract more leads with your Instagram stories.
By the way, I've done something very special for you so that you can have a free cheat sheet with all these Instagram stories ideas directly where you need them.
So don't forget to download your FREE cheat sheet now.
Full disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links that, at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission from.
Instagram Story Ideas to be personal and relatable
1. Share something personal that you're doing that day
You can share an Instagram Story of:
What you’re reading
The music you're listening to
Holidays or holiday plans you're doing
A jigsaw puzzle
Knitting a scarf
Baking
Organising your closet
2. Use an element that makes you memorable
You'll repeat it throughout your Instagram Stories content regularly:
This could be:
Your pet
A drink you love - coffee, tea, matcha, orange juice...
A game
You using certain products
Two great examples of this are:
@louisehenry with Charly, her adorable dog!
@lifeof_riley with the backgammon game and negroni drink.
These Instagram Story ideas make you memorable for something that isn't business.
3. Show an activity you love doing as part of your daily routines
These are activities that anyone could do (non-business related), like:
walking
meditating
exercising
a special meal
journaling
The power of these Instagram Story ideas is that they let your audience peek into your life and appeal to that curiosity everyone has about knowing more about you.
4. Story tell your own personal struggles
Show vulnerability, not perfection.
This could be:
Your morning routine and how it's changed since you had kids
Trying a new workout and struggling through it
Eating healthy and all the temptations you face
Shopping for clothes when you're not confident in your body
The key to these Instagram Story ideas is to show that you're human. You're not perfect and you don't have it all together.
5. Share a business flop
You also make mistakes so they can learn from you.
For example, you can share:
something you've tried in your business and it didn't work as expected.
a business idea you had that you decided not to pursue.
6. Get real about imposter syndrome or self-doubt
Yet again, don’t hesitate to show vulnerability.
This could be:
A time when you felt like an imposter
What you're currently struggling with
The things you do to work through self-doubt
These Instagram Story ideas make you relatable and people will be drawn to you because they feel like they can relate to you.
7. Your current favourite thing
Instagram Story ideas like this one lead easy to engagement. Ask your audience what theirs is with a question sticker. I'll tell you more about these ideas later on!
8. What are your thoughts on current events?
Be careful with this one!
You want to be careful with these Instagram Story ideas because you don't want to alienate anyone. But if you have a strong opinion on something, feel free to share it!
9. What's your favourite quote?
This is a great way to show off your personality and what you stand for.
10. Share something funny or unusual about you
Imperfection is great here!
With these Instagram Story ideas you'll be making yourself memorable and, especially, create a reaction.
Reactions are exactly what you want with Instagram Story ideas!
For example:
You've never had a Netflix account
You've never had a Starbucks coffee in your life
You can't parallel park
You have 10 plants and they're all named after the Friends characters
These Instagram Story ideas are great because they make you quirky. Everyone has quirkinesses and it's quite fun to know about them!
11. What's in your purse or wallet?
This is a fun way to show off your personality and give your audience a peek into your life.
Instagram Story Ideas to inspire
12. Show a behind the scenes of you or your business
Your audience loves seeing the real you and what goes on behind the scenes of your business! This is a great way to show them that there is a real person behind your brand.
These Instagram Story ideas could be:
Your office or workspace: This is a great way to show off your brand and give your audience a glimpse of what it's like to work with you.
How you make your products
You are in a video call with your team in action
A photo of you coaching your clients
How you ship your orders
A behind the scenes of a photoshoot: This is a great way to show off your products and give your audience a glimpse of what goes into a photo shoot.
13. Share a day in the life
Again, this is a great way to give your audience a peek into your life. It doesn't have to be every day, but even once a week would be great!
14. Share your desktop background or home screen
This is another fun way to show off your personality and give your audience a peek into your life.
15. Show how you organise yourself
Productivity and habits are elements that your audience will LOVE as part of your Instagram Story ideas:
Your to-do for the day
Your goals for the month
Your morning routine to get ready to be super productive and motivated
What you achieve the last week
16. Celebrate an achievement in your Instagram Story ideas
These Instagram Story ideas could be:
You got a new client
You hit your sales goal for the month
You signed up for a new course
You launched a product
You published a blog post
17. Storytell an aha moment (related to business or not)
We all have moments where we feel like we've had an epiphany. These Instagram Story ideas could be:
A time when you overcame a big challenge in your business
When you realised you were good enough
A time you had a lightbulb moment about your business
A key business lesson that you learnt the hard way
18. Storytell how you came to a decision
These Instagram Story ideas could be helpful for your audience because you're giving them an insight into how you make decisions. It could be:
How you decided to start your business
How you overcame a roadblock in your business
How you decide to pursue a new opportunity
19. Storytell how you face difficulty
These Instagram Story ideas could be:
How you deal with anxiety or fear
How you manage your time
20. Share an inspirational quote
Your audience will LOVE these Instagram Story ideas because they're simple and inspiring. You could even think of creating a featured regular event, with a "quote of the day".
21. Share your screen and walk us through what you're doing
These Instagram Story ideas could be:
How you use Canva to design your Pinterest idea pins
How you create a lead magnet
How you schedule your posts
How you schedule your next launch
22. Share someone else’s Instagram post or Instagram reel
This is a great way to give credit to someone else and also show your audience that you're always looking for new content.
Do you want to check out more of my content-packed with Instagram hacks, step-by-step tutorials and FREE Instagram templates? Here it is:
23. Share an inspirational story
Our brains are wired to pay attention to stories. This is why telling an inspirational story of you or someone else can really glue your audience to this Instagram Story idea.
Be mindful that talking for minutes on end on Instagram Story is booooooring... so maintain your audience's attention with:
a really punchy beginning
different video angles
short and snappy video clips or photos
don't forget that all stories have a beginning, a middle and an end! I know, sounds basic but you wouldn't imagine how many forget the end!
Instagram Story Ideas to tell your story
This is one of the most frequent mistakes done by online entrepreneurs and small business owners on their Instagram Stories... talk, talk about their products, their business, their next coming launch, their offer...
The BIGGEST differentiator between you and the big guys is... YOU!
YOU have the absolute power of being a small business and being able to make it personal!
There is something extremely powerful about people discovering your story. It makes them understand who you are, what makes you who you are and importantly, your why.
So use this as part of your Instagram Story ideas.
24. Introduce yourself
This should be one of the FIRST Instagram Story ideas you do! You could:
Show your audience what you do and why
Who you serve
One of your biggest achievements
A few personal things about you (don't make it all about biz!)
Combine it with a fun fact about yourself that nobody knows
This Instagram Story idea is one that you can repeat (in different formats) from time to time. Remember that as you gain Instagram followers through your Instagram strategy, not everyone will know about you.
Keep this personal introduction short and punchy! Don't go on forever!
25. Tell your why, your mission
This is a really impactful way to connect with your audience and make sure they understand what drives you. You could:
How your business started
Your "aha" moment that made you start your business
The mission or the message behind your brand
The most impactful way to tell your why is truly through storytelling. So instead of making it factual, tell it as a story. The more you perfect this, the more your audience will connect with you!
26. Share how you got where you are now
This is a great way to inspire your audience (and remind them that you too started small!) You could:
How you struggled at the beginning
Who helped you along the way
Your biggest achievements to date
Again, make sure this Instagram Story idea is told as a story with a beginning, middle and an end. We love finding out about the behind-the-scenes too so make sure to include some of that!
27. Share your current struggles that your audience can relate to (and how you got out it)
This is a really powerful way to connect with your audience on a deeper level. A few Instagram Story ideas here are:
How you're feeling right now (be vulnerable!)
Your current business challenges
How you plan on overcoming these struggles
Remember that this Instagram Story idea should NOT be all doom and gloom! Make sure there's a light at the end of the tunnel and that you have a plan to get out of it.
28. Tell what you dream about in your Instagram Story ideas
These are Instagram Story ideas that will help you show your audience what kind of person you are. You could:
Your business dreams
Your personal dreams
What kind of legacy you want to leave behind
Make sure not to be boring here! Be creative with the way you tell this story and make it engaging! Ask your audience about their dreams too! This is a perfect opportunity to understand theirs so that you can appeal better to them in your sales copy! 🎉
29. Share an unusual thing about you that your audience can’t imagine
These Instagram Story ideas are perfect for adding a bit of fun to your Instagram Stories! You could:
A weird hobby you have
An embarrassing moment
What you were like in school
Something silly you are afraid of
Something simple you can't do
Your audience loves to see the human side of you so make sure not to take yourself too seriously here!
30. What's your favourite thing about what you do
This is a great way to show your audience that you're passionate about what you do! You could:
Your favourite part of the day
What gets you excited to work
Your "why" behind your business
When you're sharing these Instagram Story ideas, make sure you sound and look like you're genuinely passionate about it!
31. Share an embarrassing moment (that's relevant to biz)
These Instagram Story ideas are perfect, yet again, for showing your audience that you're human (and that they can relate to you!) You could:
A time when you messed up big time
When you didn't know what you were doing
An awkward client meeting
A time when you had to ask for help
Remember, be vulnerable and don't take yourself too seriously! Also, remember to share your learnings and how your audience can avoid falling into the same mistakes.
32. Share your best memory as a kid (or teenager)
The best Instagram Story ideas using memories from when you were a kid are those that link back to your present, what you have achieved and what you dream of:
Your best childhood memory
A time when you were extremely proud of yourself
Something that made you happy every single time
Who inspires you to become who you are
When sharing these Instagram Story ideas, make sure to add in personal details and anecdotes to really bring your stories to life! This is a great way to connect with your audience on a personal level and show them that you're just like them.
Instagram Story Ideas to build community
Always, always, always remember that the main purpose of your Instagram Story ideas is to get from followers to community.
What do I mean?
Community is a truly engaged set of followers that you have nurtured through your content and you have been a trusted interaction, an ongoing exchange with them. They are an active part of your Instagram content.
Yeah! You know, I know, that not all your followers see your content! Yeap! That's the drawback of a social media platform where your content isn't searchable, really.
However, that's where you need to be strategic with your goals on Instagram. After gaining followers, what you want is to create community. You can then direct them to where your most valuable content and products are!
So let's see some powerful Instagram Story ideas to help you with that! All of this blog will help you build your community. These are particular Instagram Story ideas that engage your followers.
33. Share content created by your audience
This is one of the best Instagram Story ideas because it kills three birds with one stone! When you:
Share content created by your audience, you are supporting them and making them feel special.
You are increasing engagement as they will be excited to see their content being shared by you!
You're also providing valuable content for your audience as they will be able to see how other people are using your products or services.
To do this, you could:
Repost user-generated content onto your Stories
Share testimonials from customers
Showcase photos/videos of your products being used
Make sure to tag the person who submitted the content and also include a call-to-action for your audience to submit their own content!
34. Do shoutouts of your audience with your Instagram Story ideas
You can show your appreciation for your audience and make them feel special with shoutouts. You could do a shout out of:
Your most engaged followers
Your VIPs or brand ambassadors
People who have been supporting you from the beginning
Remember to tag them in your Story so they see it and feel appreciated!
35. Ask your audience to make a decision for you
This is a great way to increase engagement as people love feeling like their opinion matters! You could ask your audience to:
Help you choose between two products
Decide on the design of a new product
Pick the next blog post topic
Vote on an Instagram Story poll
36. Do a quick survey
Collect valuable data from your audience about what they want to see more of from you this way! You could ask them:
What type of content they want to see more of
What their biggest struggle is right now
Which products they are most interested in
What is their favourite blog post of yours
37. Ask to choose between 2 options (keep it simple!)
This doesn't need to be business-related. An everyday life question is great. For example:
Coffee or tea?
Summer or winter?
City or beach?
Dogs or cats?
38. Ask your followers a light question
Stories! You could ask your audience for their opinion on a certain light topic:
What is their favourite book is
What they're currently watching on Netflix
If they prefer travelling or staying at home
39. Ask people to tag you - you will repost the best Stories
People love feeling like their content is good enough to be reposted by you! You could ask your audience to:
Share a photo/video of them using your product
Share a photo/video of them in their element
Submit a funny story about their day
40. Ask your audience to show you how they use what you offer (and tag you)
People love feeling like their opinion matters! So increase your engagement this way. You could ask your audience to:
Help you choose between two products
Decide on the design of a new product
Pick the next blog post topic
Vote on an Instagram Story poll
41. Ask for questions for a coming IG Live Q+A session
Going live is a great way to connect with your audience in real-time! Hosting an Instagram Q&A session is always super exciting for your followers if you know they're an engaged community.
Provide value to them by answering their questions so ask them what they're interested in! You could:
Ask your audience to submit their questions in advance
Do a quick poll in your Instagram Stories to find out what topics people want you to cover
Answer frequently asked questions
Give a behind-the-scenes look at your business
Remember to let your audience know when you're going live so they can tune in!
42. Ask for recommendations
Recommendations are always appreciated! You could ask your audience to recommend:
A book to read
A movie to watch
A place to travel to
43. Give access to you with an AMA ( Ask Me Anything Instagram Story )
Your Instagram followers will love that you give them this option, where they can ask what they want. However, keep in mind that you need a relatively big account for this one to work well.
Answering questions live on your Stories
Picking the most popular questions to answer
Instagram Story Ideas to build authority
44. Instagram story ideas to show your results
If you have results to show, whether that be from a recent project, a campaign you ran or even your personal life - show it off!
Your audience wants to see that what you're doing is working and they'll love seeing your success.
It's essential for you to demonstrate results so that your audience identifies themselves and feels it could be them too.
45. Instagram story ideas to share your clients' results
Sharing your clients' results is also a fantastic way to show off what you do!
Your audience will see that you get results for your clients and they'll feel confident that you can do the same for them.
46. Showcase a recent project
This could be a personal project or a business project - either way, your audience will love to see what you've been up to!
47. Showcase a recent campaign
Again, this could be a personal or business campaign. Sharing the results of your campaign will show your audience that you know what you're doing and that you're successful at it.
48. Instagram story ideas to share written or video testimonials
If you have any written or video testimonials, make sure to share them as it's a fantastic Instagram Stories idea!
Your audience will love hearing from other people who have had success with you and it will help build trust.
49. Instagram story that mentions you
Take advantage of Instagram Stories that mention you. You can share these stories with your audience and it will show that you're being talked about in a positive light.
50. Interviews with experts
Interviews are always a great way to show off your authority! You could interview:
A business expert
An industry expert
A personal development expert
Your interviews don't have to be long - 20 minutes is plenty of time to get some great insights that your audience will love. Then you take some clips from them and you include them in your Stories. Such a great Instagram Story idea!
51. Showcase a recent speaking engagement
If you've been lucky enough to speak at an event, make sure you share it with your audience!
They'll love to see that you're an expert in your field and it will help build trust.
52. Share your expert insights
You don't need to be speaking at an event to share your expert insights - you can do it right from your Instagram Stories!
Your audience will appreciate the valuable information and it will help position you as an authority figure.
53. Instagram story ideas to share an upcoming collaboration
If you have an upcoming collaboration, make sure to share it with your audience! They'll be excited to see what you're working on and it will help build anticipation.
When you collaborate with others, it's a great opportunity to show off your network!
You can use it to drive engagement and traffic to the collaboration, which is a great win.
54. Share a recent collaboration
When you've completed a collaboration, make sure to share it with your audience! They'll love to see the final product and it will help show off your skills. This could be:
summit
roundup blog post
podcast interview
YouTube video
IG live
interview
Your audience will love seeing that you're connected with other experts in your field and it will help build trust.
55. Instagram story ideas to show you in the press or an award
If you've been lucky enough to be featured in the press or receive any award recognition, make sure to share it with your audience!
It's a great way to show off your achievements and it will help build trust.
56. Share an article you have been featured in
When you're featured in an article, make sure to share it with your audience! They'll love to see that you're being talked about in a positive light.
57. Instagram story ideas showing your system, framework or process
If you have a system, framework or process that you use to get results for your clients, make sure to share it with your audience!
It's great for your audience to see how you work and, yes, it builds trust.
58. Share an infographic of your system, framework or process
If you have an infographic of your system, framework or process, make sure to share it with your audience!
59. Instagram story ideas sharing a unique point of view (POV)
If you have a unique point of view on a certain topic, make sure to share it with your audience!
They'll love to hear your insights and it will help position you as an authority figure.
60. Instagram story ideas including people quoting you
If you have people quoting you, make sure to share it with your audience! Nothing better for authority than seeing that you're being talked about in a positive light.
61. Instagram story ideas with product recommendations
If you have any products that you love, make sure to share them with your audience! They'll love to see what you use, how you use and why.
Instagram Story Ideas to show the transformation
62. Before and after on video or photos
This is one of the more impactful Instagram Story ideas you can use. They always create a wow factor. They also demonstrate what you say. Show it instead of saying it!
If you have a before and after of a transformation, make sure to share it with your audience! They'll love to see how far you or your customers have come.
63. Screenshots with analytics in your Instagram Story ideas
Instagram Story ideas with analytics screenshots are always impressive! They show that you're not just making things up but you have the data to back it up. Use these Instagram Story ideas sparingly but sprinkle them from time to time.
64. Testimonial of a change of mindset
Instagram Story ideas that show a change of mindset will demonstrate your approach. It provides a realistic view of your methods and round you are to focus on unblocking the mindset to make things happen.
65. Shoutout of a customer to showcase their results
Instagram Story ideas that focus on a client's results are particularly special. You'll be achieving two things: one, a great recognition for your customer that will make him/her love you even more, plus the self-projection your audience will experience with this Instagram Story idea.
66. Share a case study
If you have a case study, sharing it on your Instagram Stories is a great way to demonstrate your expertise and results. Case studies are told from your perspective and should demonstrate the transformation from A to B that you have created.
Usually, testimonials work even better because there is the voice of your customer directly. However, case studies can be more comprehensive and as impactful if not too sleazy.
Instagram Story Ideas to educate
67. Instagram story ideas with an easy step-by-step tutorial
Create an easy step-by-step tutorial to share it with your audience! With tutorials on Instagram Stories, make sure they're easy to follow and achieve the results.
They'll love to see how you do things and they might even learn something new.
68. Instagram story ideas using a list-format
Lists are always popular! If you have a list of items, make sure to share it with your audience.
They trigger curiosity and are super engaging.
They'll love the easy-to-digest format and they might even find something new that they didn't know before.
69. Instagram story ideas with a hack
Hacks are also always popular! Hacks that can make someone's life easier, or give a shortcut to achieve a result are absolute winners!
Hacks are highly sharable and also super memorable. A video with a set of hacks launched Peter McKinnon's YouTube channel through the roof!
Your followers will love the practical value and, chosen well, they should find something new that they didn't know before.
70. Instagram story ideas with new features
If you're in the early adopter group of a new feature, make sure to share it with your audience! They'll love to see what's new and how you're using it.
You can be creative as you want and experiment because that's the whole point: being one of the first to use a new feature.
71. Instagram story ideas new product review
When you're reviewing a new product, make sure to share it in your Instagram Stories! Your audience will love to see what you think about it and how you're using it.
Doing a review is also a great way to show your expertise: by sharing what you like and don't like about the product, you're also demonstrating what you know.
72. Instagram story ideas with a quick tip
If you have a quick tip that's relevant to your audience, make sure to share it with them! The practical value and the ease of use always drive engagement and that's exactly what you want!
Quick tips are also highly shareable, so make sure to include a call-to-action asking your Instagram followers to share it.
73. Instagram story ideas showing a tool you use
Make sure to share it the tools you use with them! They'll love to see what you're using and how you're using it. Many times you could take this for granted and it fact, tools is one of the Instagram story ideas that can work the best for you.
You can even include a quick review of the tool and how it helped you achieve better results.
74. Instagram story ideas de-mystifying an objection
This is a great way to show your expertise and build rapport with your audience. By de-mystifying an objection, you're also demonstrating that you understand them.
Your audience will love the clarity and the fact that you're taking the time to help them understand something better and unblock their mindset in something that could make such a great impact on them.
Among Instagram story ideas, this one is particularly important.
75. Instagram story ideas with quick wins
These are things that can easily be implemented and achieve a quick result.
Keep always on providing value and demonstrating that you understand what your Instagram followers need. By sharing quick wins, you're also demonstrating that you want to help them move forward fast.
The practical value is over the roof and, if chosen well, they should find something new that they didn't know before.
76. Instagram story ideas including an expert tip
Sometimes is also wise to do the opposite... instead of keeping it simple, sharing true expert advice.
This could be the case if you feel that your Instagram followers are ready to level up and they're looking for more in-depth content.
If this is the case, make sure to include an expert tip! They'll love having access to such valuable information and it will help them move forward faster.
Instagram Story Ideas to build your email list
77. Promote your freebie with a sticker link in your Instagram Story ideas
Make sure to promote your freebie in your Instagram Story! You can use the link sticker to drive traffic to your landing page.
The great thing about this is that you can use it over and over again, so make sure to include a call-to-action asking your followers to sign up. Sounds good?
78. Use all these Instagram Story Ideas with a CTA to get your freebie
Don't forget to include a call-to-action in all your Instagram Story ideas... more frequently than you think you should! It's easy to forget your CTA, and it's such a missed opportunity. You can use the link sticker to drive traffic to your landing page.
The great thing about this is that you can use it over and over again, so make sure to include a call-to-action asking your followers to sign up.
79. Give a sneak peek of your freebie in your Instagram Story ideas
This is a great way to increase the curiosity of your audience and make them want to sign up for your freebie. By giving a sneak peek, you're also demonstrating the value they'll get by signing up.
I'm going to repeat myself... but it's worthwhile... Make sure to include a call-to-action in your story and use the link sticker!
80. Show the results your freebie creates in your Instagram Story ideas
This is one of the most powerful Instagram story ideas you can use to increase sign-ups. By showing the results, you're also increasing the perceived value of your freebie.
Make sure to include a call-to-action in your story and use the link sticker! Did I say that before? 😂
81. Show different ways to use your freebie in your Instagram Story ideas
This is another fantastic way to increase the perceived value of your freebie. By showing different ways to use it, you're also demonstrating that it can be used in different situations and appeal to different segments of your audience. That is important! Not all your audience is the same.
82. Promote your bio with your freebie offer in your Instagram Story ideas
Make sure to include a call-to-action in your bio asking your followers to sign up for your freebie. You can use the link sticker in your Instagram story to drive traffic to your bio.
Use these two methods. They both work and at the end of the day the more options you give your Instagram followers to grab your freebie, the better.
83. Create content upgrade freebies that you offer depending on your story
This is one of the most creative Instagram story ideas you can use to grow your email list using Instagram Story ideas. By creating content upgrade freebies, you're offering your followers more value depending on what they want to learn.
You can still use the link sticker in your Instagram story to drive traffic to your landing page where they can sign up for your content upgrade freebie.
84. Promote a live free webinar in your Instagram Story ideas
This is a great way to increase the urgency of your offer and get people to sign up for your freebie. Drive traffic to your landing page where they can sign up for your webinar.
The one thing you want to use is an Instagram countdown timer! Oh yes! They're fantastic tools to remind your audience that your webinar or live is starting soon!
Don't forget to include all the relevant information such as the date, time, and a brief description of what they'll learn.
85. Collaborate with other businesses to create freebies in your Instagram Story ideas
This Instagram Story idea is a smart strategy to get more exposure for your business and also increase the perceived value of your freebie. By collaborating with other businesses, you can create a more comprehensive and valuable freebie for your audience.
86. Test different freebies to see what your Instagram Story audience prefers
Split test different freebies to see which one performs best in your Instagram Story ideas. By testing different freebies, you can find the perfect offer for your audience.
And that will create such a difference in results.
87. Create a freebie exclusive to your Instagram audience in your Instagram Story ideas
Want to increase loyalty among your followers and also get them to sign up for your freebie? By creating a freebie exclusive to your Instagram audience, you're showing that you value their loyalty.
That will also get them to show up regularly in your Instagram stories as they know they obtain things you don't offer somewhere else.
Instagram Story Ideas to create anticipation
What are you working on right now? Are you going to launch something soon? Such Instagram Story ideas are gold.
88. Tease a launch or and offer days before in your Instagram Story ideas
This is one of the most effective ways to create anticipation for your launch. By teasing your launch a few days before, you're getting people excited about what's to come.
89. Show your to-do list with what is coming soon in your Instagram Story ideas
This is a sneaky way to let your audience peek into your to-do list so they see what you're working on and also increase the anticipation for your upcoming event.
90. A behind the scenes
An alternative method to create the same result is to show a behind the scenes so your audience can see what goes into making your product or service.
91. Share what you’ve achieved during the day or week and what is coming soon
People love seeing how you manage your productivity and achieve your progress. It also increases the anticipation for what's to come. Showing progress is motivating and it also gets people excited about your upcoming launch.
92. Create a short sneak preview of a new project you're working on
But there is nothing better than a short sneak preview, don't you think? This is one of the most effective ways to create anticipation as people will want to see more... and that's exactly what you want!
93. Create a short sneak preview of an ebook you're writing
If you're writing an ebook, this is a great way to create anticipation for its launch. By sharing a short sneak preview, you're getting people excited about what's to come.
94. Share a snippet of your new blog post
Do you write blogs? Do you want to increase traffic to your blog? Share a snippet of your new blog post! This is a great way to increase traffic to your blog as people will want to read the full post.
Instagram Story Ideas to sell and promote
Ahhhhhhhh.... You're thinking you aren't sure how you feel about this... Instagram Story ideas to sell... really? Yes! You can and you should!
95. Pre-launch with an Instagram Story
Before you start your official launch, wouldn't it be extra special as an Instagram Story idea to pre-launch to your Instagram audience? You can give them a sneak peek, share a behind the scenes or let them know what's coming soon.
96. Launch a special offer to your Instagram close friends first
A great way to get people excited about your launch is to offer a special discount to your Instagram close friends first. By doing this, you're making people feel special. You're treating them differently. They have something special from you! That builds excitement about your product or service and also creates a sense of urgency.
97. Offer a discount for the next 24 hours only on your Instagram Story ideas
This is one of the most effective ways to create a sense of urgency and get people to buy your product or service. By offering a discount for the next 24 hours only, you're creating a sense of urgency that will motivate people to buy.
98. Promote a flash sale
The difference with the previous one is that a flash sale lasts a few days (3-4 days). So if you want to extend the urgency, a flash sale is a great idea.
99. Offer free shipping for the next 24 hours
If you sell physical products, not just digital ones, this is another way to create urgency and get people to buy your product or service. By offering free shipping for the next 24 hours, you're making it easier for people to buy.
100. Use an Instagram Story idea to increase urgency and sales
You can use an Instagram Story to increase urgency and sales by adding a countdown timer.
101. Pre-build interest to a major sales season (Black Friday, Christmas…)
By pre-building interest, you're creating a sense of anticipation that will motivate people to buy. Many launches forget this phase and then go directly to the sale! Mistake. Always build up interest first.
102. Offer a free gift with a purchase
If you want to increase sales, offer a free gift with purchase! Great Instagram Story ideas to sell are those that show free bonuses available with your products. Desirability makes a real difference.
103. Use your birthday or business anniversary for a special sale
You can use your birthday or business anniversary as an excuse to offer a special sale! Get a sales boost and get people excited about your product or service.
104. Share what you're offering in your Instagram Stories
If you have any paid resources, such as an e-book or a course, make sure to share them on your Instagram Stories!
Your audience will love that you're offering something of value for a price and it will help position you as an authority figure.
105. Instagram story ideas to show off a new product, service or course
If you've launched a new product, service, or course, make sure to share it with your audience! They'll love to see what you've been up to and it will help increase sales.
106. Use an Instagram Story idea to show off a new feature
If you've launched a new feature, make sure to share it with your audience! They'll love to see what you've been up to and it will help increase engagement.
107. Offer a discount code for your Instagram followers
If you want to increase sales, offer a discount code for your Instagram followers! They'll love the fact that they can save money on your product or service.
Instagram Story Ideas to launch
This is in fact a combination of some of the previous Instagram Story ideas focused on launching, so I'll keep it super simple. Think of things like
108. Tease your launch
109. Promote your launch freebie (you can create an incentive for early birds)
110. Present your offer
111. Share comments about your live event
112. Share testimonials, create social proof
113. Ask a question sticker
114. Promote a Live IG to have a Q&A about what you're launching
Instagram Story Ideas to collaborate
115. Promote to your audience someone else’s free event or webinar
In the same way that you can promote your webinar to your audience, you can help a fellow online entrepreneur to get sign-ups to their event. This can open up collab options later on down the line.
116. Collaborate with another business for a joint venture
This is a slightly different approach than the previous one. This considers that you have agreed to share revenue and you're both promoting an event to leverage your audience through Instagram Story ideas.
117. Shoutout to a fellow entrepreneur whose products complement yours
You can give a shoutout to another entrepreneur whose products or services complement yours! This is a great way to create a win-win situation and get your audience interested in what they have to offer.
118. Collaborate with a non-profit organisation
This is a great way to give back and collaborate with a non-profit organisation. You can help promote their cause on your Instagram Stories and raise awareness for a good cause.
119. Share an inspiring story of one of your customers
Never discard a customer for a potential collaboration. You can have a complementary offer and use Instagram Story ideas to show off one of your customer's products to support them while showing the impact that you've made on your clients' or customers' lives. This will help create social proof and get people interested in what both of you have to offer.
120. Talk about a coming, joint IG Live or Podcast
Promote content that you're creating together with someone else, and it will help increase both of your audiences. This can be done as a regular thing or as a one-time promotion.
121. Share someone else’s Instagram story, reel or post on your profile
This is a great way to show some love to someone whose content you enjoy and it can open up the door for collaboration in the future.
These are just some of the many Instagram Story ideas that you can use to collaborate with other businesses or entrepreneurs. The important thing is to be creative and think outside the box!
122. Do a shout out of someone else’s Instagram account with a tag
Keep on showing some love to someone whose content you enjoy. Do what you would love someone to do with your account.
123. Collaborate with someone in your industry for an Instagram Story Takeover
You can switch who has control of each other's Stories for a day.
Well, a takeover of your Instagram Story might feel scary... II admit I have never tried this! However, with the right trusted partner, it will inject fresh new Instagram Story ideas into your account!
124. Have a Q+A with another business in your industry
Why not learn from each other and provide value to your audiences. This is such an easy and fun way to collaborate with Instagram Story ideas.
Instagram Story Ideas to cross-promote your content
125. Share your Instagram Reel or posts on your Instagram Story ideas
Make sure you're promoting your content on all of your social media platforms for maximum reach. You can use Instagram Story ideas to share your Reels or posts on your other channels such as Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn... and Pinterest!
126. Promote in your Instagram Stories ideas your Instagram bio
This is less and less needed with the ability to use the link sticker... however it's always a good idea to educate your audience about the fact they can always find value and your products in the Instagram bio link
127. Promote an upcoming IG live or Podcast on your Stories
Nothing like increasing excitement and getting people interested in what you have to say. Don't assume people know and say it... not all your audience sees all your Instagram Stories.
128. Go live on Instagram and mention/tag
When you are live on Instagram, take the time to cross-promote your Instagram Story ideas, so that those who are watching you live know that you have special content and offers for your audience there.
129. Include a few seconds of your latest YouTube video
Why not include a teaser of your latest YouTube video as one of your Instagram Story ideas? What's essential is select a clip that entices your audience to want to know more. Then, make it easy for them and include a link sticker.
130. Share some takes on your latest blog
Do you blog? Are you leveraging the power of Instagram Story ideas to promote your blog on Insta? Nothing better than bringing some really strong extracts from your blog to Instagram Stories and including a call to action for your Instagram followers to read the full blog on your website.
Instagram Story Ideas for influencers
131. Show what you use (fashion, beauty, food, electronics, tools…)
As an influencer, you are often asked about the products you use... so why not do a little unboxing of what you use on your Stories. Obviously, if it's a product you were gifted or paid to feature, don't forget to add the required hashtags such as #ad.
132. Repost DM from a fan as one of your Instagram Story ideas
Reposting a DM from a fan is always a great way to show some love but also to engage with your audience. You can either use the screenshot feature or the native Instagram repost feature.
133. Go live with a friend or another influencer
Going live with another influencer in your niche is a great way to show some love but also increase your reach as you will be exposed to each other's audiences. It also builds your image. This is a great way to collaborate with other influencers and come up with new Instagram Story ideas.
134. Show a product haul
This is similar to idea number 129, but it's more about the products you've just purchased. It can be fun to do a little haul of what you've just bought, whether it's beauty, fashion or any other type of product.
135. Do a review (of a book, movie, restaurant, product, service…)
As an influencer, you are in a great position to do reviews of products, services or experiences. This is always valuable content for your audience.
136. Do an unboxing
This is also similar to idea number 129, but it's more about the products you've just received, whether it's a gift or something you've ordered. It works really well with newly released products that you have early access to or highly desirable products that your audience would love to have a sneak peek about.
137. Launch a challenge
Part of being an influencer is being creative and coming up with new content ideas. So, why not launch a challenge as one of your Instagram Story ideas? It could be anything from a fitness challenge to a dance challenge or even a creative challenge. The options are endless!
138. Create a raffle or giveaway
This is a great way to engage with your audience and increase your reach as people will be excited to share your raffle or giveaway with their followers in the hope of winning.
139. Share user-generated content on your Instagram Story ideas
Ask people to tag you when they use your products or services or even do one of your habits like making a coffee.
User-generated content is always valuable as it's a great way to show some love to your fans but also get some fresh content. It's also a way to show that you are active and engaged with your audience.
140. Collaborate with a brand
This is a great way to reach new audiences, as well as create some really great content. It's also a fantastic opportunity to build relationships with a brand and generate income.
Instagram Story Ideas to entertain
141. Instagram story ideas for fun
Instagram Story ideas like this could be absolutely anything. Bad takes of you on video. Something funny you come across during your day and you share, a mini simple fun game.
The spirit is to chill and have fun!
142. Share a funny meme
We all love a good meme and they are always a hit on social media! So, just us one in one of your Instagram Story ideas.
143. Instagram story ideas with simple, day-to-day questions
The absolute key here is simplicity. Here are some examples of Instagram Story ideas:
This or that
Guess which one…
What would you do
2 lies and a true
A or B
144. Instagram story ideas with what you did during the weekend
Don't you love simple ways to engage with your audience and give them a little insight into your life? It's also a great way to get some feedback on what you should be doing with your time off!
145. Humour is a great way to connect and make them remember you
So, if you're funny, use that to your advantage in your Instagram Story ideas!
And if not, re-share something funny.
146. If you're travelling, share some tips!
This is a great way to connect with your audience, especially if they are interested in travel. It's also a fantastic opportunity to show off your skills and knowledge.
Your BONUS tip: Instagram Story Ideas to create reactions
Among all of the different Instagram Story ideas in this blog, these bonus one are gold.
This will drive far more engagement than anything else. Don’t over use them however!
147. Show something unusual
You're constantly bombarded with content that looks, feels and even sounds the same! You become numb to so much... hence the short spam and the constant swiping.
So show something UNUSUAL.
Only you know what your niche sees constantly and therefore what are great Instagram Story ideas to draw attention to. Just remember...
DIFFERENT IS GREAT!
148. Share an unusual opinion
The same goes for opinions. This is really where you make your voice stand out. Don't be a parrot to what everyone says.
Share an opinion that is unusual. A very personal perspective that shows your personality or your unique approach.
And then, my friend, your audience will pay attention!
It feels scary but once you go there, and try it, you'll do it more. It's normal to feel vulnerable too!
149. Be controversial
Well, I want you to treat this carefully. Don't go silly for the sake of it.
Don't be controversial without deeply believing in what you say.
There is a HUGE difference between being clickbait for the sake of clicks and being controversial because you very honestly want to express a view that many might not agree with.
That fine line is important to walk on the right side of it not to lose credibility with your audience.
150. Instagram Story ideas for close friends
Now with ability to have close friends as a smaller community of your followers, take the opportunity to create Instagram Story ideas that share exclusive content, where your Instagram close friends can see more behind the scenes, analytics or strategies that you keep for them only.
This is probably the best way to absolutely best nurture your more active followers and drive engagement through the roof into your DMs.
151. Prioritise your own Instagram Story ideas versus reposting
Instagram has signalled very clearly that the platform will favour own created content. This in fact means that those strategies where you constantly someone else’s feed posts for the sake of maintaining your Instagram Stories on-going are not in the long term a great approach.
You’ll also always connect so much better with something personal that an impersonal repost as your constant Instagram Story ideas. We see that a lot. There is a place for reposts… just don’t make it your main source of content in your Instagram Stories.
What next?
Time to take action! Keep your Instagram Story ideas flowing in your feed and remember that it’s ok to take a break from time to time. Don’t overwhelm yourself to have the feed constantly with content. You have plenty of ideas here to get inspired and delight your Instagram followers.
Don’t forget to comment and tell me:
It is an absolute privilege to know that you read and find value in my blog!
A HUGE thank you for being here with me until the end.
Don’t forget to pin this blog on Pinterest. Just hover over the pin below and click the Pinterest logo!
Thanks soooo much for helping me share it!
Hi! I’m Isabel
Visual content creation is my passion
The sea is my happy place!
For years and years I have created and produced content, in particular visual content. You can find me very often with my cameras and tripod out and about!
My passion: to help you with your online presence and drive business growth through my blog and visuals collections (marketing templates, styled photos & video).
Ah, I have also worked for 24+ in the corporate world, leading quite a mix: transformation, marketing, coaching, sales, productivity, programme management, investments and product management.
I love sharing all these skills with you in my blog.
I am also founder of Agavea Properties, our family holiday rental business. My husband and I lead it with the passion with one goal in mind: serving our customers to create a memorable holiday experience for them.
So there you have it, that’s me! Ah... I almost forgot, my happy place is by the sea.
Thanks for being here with me!
You’ve got one goal right now: Make your first $1,000 online. Not a six-figure empire. Not a viral Reel. Just your first proof-it’s-possible paycheck from something you built.
And if you’re being honest… you thought you’d be there by now. Because you have been trying.
You’ve downloaded more freebies than you can count—most of them still sitting unopened in your inbox.
You’ve watched the webinars.
You’ve spent hours tweaking your freebie, trying to figure out if you need a niche or a “value ladder” or a funnel that doesn’t look like a bowl of spaghetti.
Meanwhile, the sales? Nada.
Your to-do list is full but your bank account’s not.
And that voice in your head keeps whispering: “What am I doing wrong?”
I see you. Because I was you.
And here’s the truth that changed everything for me: trying to follow 6-figure advice at $0 is like skipping Season 1 of your favorite show and expecting Season 5 to make sense.
You’re watching characters you don’t know, chasing plot twists that don’t land, and wondering why everyone else seems obsessed—while you’re just confused and low-key exhausted.
That advice you’re seeing all over your feed? It’s not bad. It’s just not made for this season of your journey.
Your Season 1 is about clarity, confidence, and cash flow—not scale, teams, or evergreen launches.
And that’s why I’m sharing this: these are the 9 lessons that actually helped me make my first $1K online.
Not the shiny version, not the 6-figure hindsight advice—but what really worked when I was in the trenches figuring it out, one messy step at a time.
Let’s break it down.
Key Takeaways (what you’ll learn):
Do you need a website to make your first $1,000 online? → No, but you do need a simple homepage and a domain so people can find you and grab your freebie.
What’s the fastest way to make $1,000 online? → Start offering high-ticket affiliate products, coaching, or done-for-you services—not low-margin offers like dropshipping or $2 affiliate links.
What type of content leads to actual sales? → Long-form content (blog, podcast, YouTube), even better when it’s searchable + Pinterest for traffic. Way better than social posts that disappear from your audience’s feed in 24 hours.
Do you need a complicated funnel to start selling? → Not at all. Use this simple path: Content → Freebie → Welcome Email → Personal Offer.
Can you sell a course before it’s built? → Yes. Pre-sell the idea, build as you go or deliver live. You’ll get paid before you create the lessons.
How do you grow without burning out? → Ditch perfection. Use just-in-time learning, take messy action, and stop trying to “know everything” before you start.
Tempted to just skim the takeaways and dip? I get it. You’ve read a million “how to make your first $1,000 online” posts. But this one? It’s different. Because it doesn’t just give you strategies—it walks you through the real-life missteps, detours, and unpopular truths that actually got me there.
Like the photo membership I never launched.
The blog that brought sales while I slept.
The $1000 I made before even building my course.
If you’re the kind of person who learns best from honest behind-the-scenes over polished highlight reels—you’re in the right place.