How to Link in Instagram Stories: A Masterclass for Marketers and Influencers

So, you want to add links to your Instagram Stories? Let’s cut to the chase. As of August 2021, the “Swipe Up” feature was replaced with the “Link Sticker.” To add a link, simply create your Story (photo, video, or graphic), tap the sticker icon (the square smiley face) at the top of the screen, select the “Link” sticker, paste your desired URL, and place the sticker on your Story. Your followers can then tap the sticker to be redirected to your chosen website or resource. It’s that simple, yet the strategic possibilities are vast.

Delving Deeper: Mastering the Link Sticker

The Link Sticker isn’t just a replacement; it’s an evolution. While “Swipe Up” was limited to verified accounts or those with over 10,000 followers, the Link Sticker is available to all accounts (although Instagram occasionally runs tests that may limit access for certain users for a brief period). This democratization of linking is a game-changer for smaller businesses, creators, and anyone wanting to drive traffic from their Stories.

Customizing Your Link Sticker

Beyond simply adding a link, consider these customization tips:

• Sticker Placement: Strategically place the sticker to avoid obstructing key visual elements of your Story. Experiment with different corners and sizes.
• Call to Action: Don’t just assume people will tap. Add text or an arrow pointing to the sticker with a clear call to action, such as “Shop Now,” “Learn More,” or “Read the Blog Post.”
• Sticker Style: While custom design options are limited, Instagram occasionally introduces new sticker designs or allows for text customization within the sticker itself. Keep an eye out for these updates.
• Visual Cues: Use GIFs, animations, or other visual elements to draw attention to the Link Sticker. Short, looping animations are particularly effective.
• Storytelling: Seamlessly integrate the link into your Story’s narrative. Don’t just slap a sticker on randomly. Make it a natural part of your message.

Measuring Your Success

One of the most crucial aspects of using the Link Sticker is tracking its performance. Instagram Insights provides valuable data about how many people are tapping your link. Monitor these metrics to understand what types of Stories and links resonate most with your audience. A/B test different calls to action, sticker placements, and even the landing pages you’re directing traffic to, to optimize your results.

FAQs: Your Burning Instagram Linking Questions Answered

Here are 12 frequently asked questions to solidify your understanding of Instagram Stories links:

1. Why can’t I see the Link Sticker option?

The most common reason is that you’re experiencing a temporary bug or you may not have the latest version of the Instagram app. Ensure your app is updated to the newest version via the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android). Restarting your phone can also sometimes resolve minor glitches. Rarely, Instagram may be testing limited rollouts, temporarily restricting access for some users.

2. Is there a limit to how many links I can put in one Instagram Story?

No, you are generally only able to add one link sticker per story frame. If you want to include multiple links, you’ll need to create multiple story frames, each with its own link sticker.

3. Can I add links to old Instagram Stories?

No, you cannot add link stickers to stories after they have expired. The feature is only available when you are creating a new Story. However, you can create a new story and save it to your highlights.

4. Can I link to specific products on my website using the Link Sticker?

Absolutely! The Link Sticker allows you to link to any valid URL, including specific product pages, blog posts, landing pages, or even external websites. This is one of its strongest advantages for driving targeted traffic.

5. How do I track clicks on my Link Sticker?

Instagram provides basic analytics within Instagram Insights. Navigate to your profile, tap “Insights,” then find the specific Story you want to analyze. You’ll see the number of “Sticker Taps,” indicating how many users clicked on the link.

6. Can I use a link shortener (like Bitly) with the Link Sticker?

Yes, you can use a link shortener like Bitly. In fact, it’s recommended! Shorter links are cleaner visually and easier to manage. More importantly, link shorteners often provide detailed analytics beyond what Instagram offers, such as geographic location of clicks and click-through rates over time.

7. Does having a verified badge affect my ability to use the Link Sticker?

While the Link Sticker is available to all accounts (with occasional testing exceptions), having a verified badge can lend credibility to your Stories and potentially increase click-through rates. However, verification is not required to use the Link Sticker itself.

8. What kind of content performs best with Link Stickers?

Content that is visually engaging, provides value, and has a clear call to action tends to perform best. Think behind-the-scenes content, product demonstrations, exclusive offers, and educational tutorials. Always tell your audience why they should click the link.

9. Are there any restrictions on the types of websites I can link to?

While Instagram’s guidelines are broad, you should avoid linking to websites that violate their Community Guidelines. This includes sites that promote illegal activities, hate speech, or harmful content. Always err on the side of caution.

10. Can I schedule Instagram Stories with Link Stickers using third-party tools?

Yes, many social media management tools like Later, Buffer, and Hootsuite now support scheduling Instagram Stories with Link Stickers. Ensure your chosen tool is up-to-date and compatible with Instagram’s API.

11. How do I make my Link Sticker stand out?

Get creative! Use eye-catching visuals, animated GIFs, and strategic placement to draw attention to your Link Sticker. Experiment with different sticker sizes and locations to see what works best for your audience. Don’t be afraid to test new ideas.

12. What’s the best way to promote an affiliate link in my Instagram Story?

Be transparent and disclose that you’re using an affiliate link. Use language like “I may earn a small commission if you purchase through this link” to maintain trust with your audience. Focus on promoting products you genuinely believe in and that align with your brand. Authenticity is key.

By mastering the Link Sticker and applying these strategies, you can unlock the full potential of Instagram Stories for driving traffic, generating leads, and ultimately, achieving your business goals. So, go forth and link with confidence!