How Instagram Can Grow Your Ecommerce Marketing

Instagram is a Marketing Powerhouse

The visual approach to content allows Instagram to emphasize creativity and culture. Savvy brands see the potential and are using Instagram to connect with customers on a personal level. And users are loving it.

Slick marketing copy and eye-catching headlines are no longer needed. Instead brands are creating a lifestyle around their products and services to entice users who want to belong.

Until recently most marketers have not been focusing on Instagram as a reliable source of revenue. It doesn’t fit the traditional marketing model that tracks success in Cost Per Click and ROI.

Now with the addition of some new features, Instagram is changing the game of Ecommerce marketing. Opening the door to a total paradigm shift that we haven’t seen since in years.

Here’s how Instagram is making this change possible…

Instagram Stories

This Instagram Stories puts content in the most important place — the top of the feed! This allows brands to connect with users on a very intimate level. Instead of swiping through posts, users can peek behind the scenes into the lifestyle of their favorite brands and celebrities.

According to Instagram:

“With Instagram Stories, you don’t have to worry about over posting. Instead, you can share as much as you want throughout the day — with as much creativity as you want. You can bring your story to life in new ways with text and drawing tools. The photos and videos will disappear after 24 hours and won’t appear on your profile grid or in feed.”

Since these videos will eventually disappear, there is an added level of anticipation. It creates a fear of missing out for the users. It’s this “what will they do next” mentality that keeps users coming back for more.

Links Within Stories

Many brands use Stories to promote products and content. This has prompted Instagram to add additional links within Stories. Companies can post impromptu videos showcasing products and demonstrating how they are used. Businesses can then send users to their website to learn more and buy.

This simple addition is a powerful tool for driving sales. It gives users direct access when they are actively engaged and highly motivated to buy.

Shop Now

Instagram rolled out a Shop Now button in late 2016 giving retailers the ability to link shopping carts to products displayed in posts. This CTA opens the door to online impulse buying as users swipe up through posts.

Since this feature is very new, we’ll have to wait and see its impact for businesses. It will be an interesting space to watch as the possibilities for enhancing the eCommerce experience are endless.

Conclusion

Instagram is growing fast and they are not afraid to test new features. As the platform evolves, brands will evolve in how they promote and sell their products. Creating a more intimate and emotionally driven shopping experience along the way.

The potential of eCommerce marketing is wide open. Marketers and business owners now have the tools to connect with users and capitalize on creativity.