Online Class TuneUp: Instagram Stories 101: The Basics

This Training TuneUp explores Instagram's Stories - those little circle videos that appear at the top of your Instagram account. Instagram launched Stories in 2016 as a way for people to post imperfect photos, videos, and "moments in-between" according to TechCruch.

In a 2016 interview with then Instagram CEO and co-founder Kevin Systrom, people were only posting their most perfect and curated photos in Instagram. Stories was for those silly moments in-between the glossy photos, which can give people more creative freedom, and brands more opportunities to get closer with their people by being, well, imperfect and relatable. The Stories only last for 24hrs (unless you know a few tricks to keep them forever), so people can feel less attached to them.

Trivia Tip

Instagram's Stories was a copy of Snapchat, an earlier 24hr video sharing platform used by younger people. Instagram doesn't deny this, and Kevin admits in this TechCruch article: "They [Snapchat] deserve all the credit,” but insisted “This isn’t about who invented something. This is about a format, and how you take it to a network and put your own spin on it.”

This TuneUp explores Instagram Stories - the How and Why. At first blush, these may seem like one more thing you need to know about, and you may be skipping it, hoping that it's just a fad. Stories are here to stay, will be really good for your brand, and is easier than you think to do. Imperfections and all.

Covered In This TuneUp

• Why Instagram Stories? Why would you want to make these silly - or beautiful - videos?

• How do Instagram Stories help your brand?

• Design Tips and Tricks - Yes, Instagram Stories are that easy to design. Just tap and drag on something cute.

• What makes a good Instagram Story?

• Learn about how Instagram Stories work - Where do they go? Who sees them?

• One of the most important reasons to start using Instagram Stories right now - which might not be as true in years to come.

• Question answered from a viewer: "What is worthy of an Instagram Story?"

• Question answered from a viewer: "How many photos does it take to make 1 Instagram Story?" (Hint: this becomes a trick question)

Online Class TuneUp: Mastering Brand Storytelling on Instagram

Instagram is one of the most fun ways customers get information about their favorite brands (yours!). Instagram helps inspire people to want to buy from your business. Marketers call this concept "brand storytelling."

After you watch this Training TuneUp, you're going to start doing more of it because you're going to understand the impact it has on your customers, whether that is getting them to attend your event, buy from your website, sign up as a client, or find your product in stores. Tin Shingle's co-founder Katie, is a digital marketer, graphic designer, blogger, and ghost publisher behind several Instagram accounts in different industries. She reveals strategies that can work for you right now to enhance your Instagram.