Just over three months ago the social media platform Instagram, owned by Facebook, launched their interpretation of the also popular platform Snapchat, with Instagram Stories. As you may already know, Instagram stories allows users to create “slideshows” including images and videos, separate from their main feed, which disappear after 24 hours. Like Snapchat, the user can add text, doodles, emojis and filters all while keeping tabs on who is viewing their Story.

What does this have to do with business marketing? Companies such as Southwest Airlines, Vitamix and Real Simple have implemented the use of Instagram Stories to inform their followers, market new products, and drive traffic to other channels. Here are a few ways your business could be using the story feature to build momentum for your brand:

1. A “Day in the Life”: Social media lives and breathes off the illusion of exclusivity and receiving behind-the-scenes access. Give your followers a look at the inner makings of your business.
2. Content Teasers: Look at the content you publish on your site, chances are you’ll find valuable information that you could easily break down into a few visually appealing slides.
3. Cross Channel Promoting: Is your company going “live” on Facebook? Hosting a Twitter party? Let people know in your stories!
4. Your Product in Action: Are you marketing a physical product? Show your followers how effective it is through a short series of Instagram Stories. Developing a new recipe or “how-to?” Give a step by step tutorial via stories.
5. Milestones and Important Events: Your business probably has more stories than you realize. Treating them like exciting events is a great way to humanize your brand and keep your customers interested in what you do.

So, go ahead, flex your marketing muscles by giving Instagram Stories a try! Using this feature for your business will show your followers that you’re not only knowledgeable about new social media trends, but also agile enough to apply them to your own business.