Instagram’s New Public Comments on Stories: What It Means for Small Business Owners
Instagram recently rolled out a new feature for Stories: public comments. This update is generating buzz, especially among small business owners who use Instagram to connect with their audience. But what does this feature mean for you? How can you leverage it, and do you even need to use it? Let’s break it down in a simple, approachable way.
What Are Public Comments on Stories?
In the past, interactions on Instagram Stories were primarily private. Followers could send a direct message (DM) in response to a Story, but their replies were only visible to you. With the introduction of public comments on Stories, your followers can leave comments that everyone can see—just like they would on a regular Instagram post. This new interaction layer can be a powerful tool for building community and boosting engagement.
How Small Businesses Can Use Public Comments
This new feature opens up exciting possibilities for small businesses. Here are a few ways you can approach this new feature:
- Encourage Community Engagement
- Public comments allow your followers to see each other’s responses, fostering a sense of community. For example, if you post a Story asking for feedback on a new product, your audience can discuss their thoughts in the comments, creating a mini-conversation under your Story. This can build more engagement and make your followers feel more connected—not only to your brand but to each other.
- KF Tip: Ask your followers fun, lighthearted questions related to your business. Use polls or quizzes in the Story itself, then encourage viewers to elaborate in the public comments.
- Customer Testimonials in Real Time
- Having public comments on Stories means your customers can share their experiences more publicly. When someone comments on how much they love your product or service, other followers will see it, too. Think of it as real-time, authentic testimonials that help build social proof without you lifting a finger.
- KF Tip: In a story, feature a customer success story or product review and invite followers to comment publicly with their own experiences. This is a subtle way to show off your great reputation.
- Crowdsource Ideas
- Want input on your next product launch or service offering? Public comments give you an easy way to crowdsource ideas. Post a Story with potential options or ask for suggestions directly, and your followers can share their thoughts for everyone to see.
- KF Tip: Frame your Story around “Help Us Decide” or “What Do You Think?” This engages your followers in decision-making, making them feel more involved and valued.
- Host Public Q&As
- If you want to keep your audience informed about your business, the new public comments feature can be used for Q&A sessions. Followers can ask questions directly in the comments of your Story, and your responses will be visible to everyone. It’s a great way to build transparency and trust.
- KF Tip: Run a weekly Q&A session on your Stories. Let your followers know they can leave questions in the public comments and respond in real time for a more interactive experience.
Do You Have to Use Public Comments?
Not at all! While this feature can be beneficial for engagement, it’s optional. Public comments may not be the best fit for every business, especially if you’re concerned about moderating comments or if your audience prefers more private interactions.
If you decide public comments don’t align with your brand’s vibe or your audience isn’t ready, you can stick with private replies. The key is using the tools that best serve your business’s needs and audience’s preferences.
Moderation Matters: How to Keep Control
As with any public comment system, moderation is crucial. Instagram offers options to filter comments or block specific keywords, which can help prevent spam or inappropriate remarks. You’re in control of the conversation, so take advantage of these settings to keep your brand’s reputation in good standing.
KF Tip: Regularly review and update your moderation settings. Consider turning off public comments for specific Stories if they are more sensitive or if you’d prefer to keep the conversation private.
Final Thoughts
Instagram’s new public comments on Stories provide small businesses an exciting opportunity to increase engagement and create stronger connections with their followers. Whether you choose to use it as a tool for customer feedback, community building, or Q&A sessions, it’s worth exploring how this feature fits into your social media strategy. Remember, you don’t have to use it for every Story—just where it makes the most sense for your brand.
At KF Marketing, LLC, we can help you navigate these new features and make them work for your business. Want to chat more about how to grow your presence on Instagram? Let’s connect!
