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Storrito Q&A: How does Instagram Direct work?

Want to successfully showcase your brand on Instagram? Then Instagram Stories should be a part of your daily work. In our "Storrito Q&A," we’ll explain everything you need to know about Instagram, Instagram Stories and Instagram marketing.

How does Instagram Direct work?

Instagram Direct is Instagram's way of allowing users to share messages with friends and followers directly in the app. In addition to regular messages, you can also send feed posts, Instagram Reels, and Instagram Stories to whomever you choose.

Where can I find Instagram Direct?

Instagram Direct is integrated into the Instagram app. Open the app and tap directly on the paper airplane in the top right corner. You can also swipe left on the home screen to open the feature. Here, you will find all the chats and messages you have received and sent so far.

Clicking on a name will show you the entire chat history, including all messages which have been sent.

If there is no chat yet, but you want to send a message to a person or a company, you can go directly to their profile. You will find the "Message" button near the center. Clicking on the button opens a new chat where you can write your message.

How can I send Instagram posts and Instagram stories?

To send specific Instagram posts, you can also use the paper airplane icon. Go to the post or Instagram Reel that you would like to send. Click on the paper airplane. Immediately after, a dropdown will open with your most-contacted profiles. Select the person you want to send the post to and click "Send."

In Instagram Stories, you can also use the paper airplane to send specific stories to your friends or followers. Additionally, you can also start a chat with the person who created the story and reply to the story, so to speak. To do this, tap the "Send message" field. Type your message and click "Send." The recipient will then see your message in their Instagram Direct history.

Send your own photos and videos

In addition to text-only messages, Instagram Direct can also be used to share your own photos and videos with friends and followers. To do this, use the icons in the bottom bar, where you also enter your normal text.

You can take and send your own photos directly using the blue camera icon, record and send a voice message using the microphone icon, send a picture that you already have on your smartphone's memory using the picture icon, and select suitable stickers using the sticker icon and send them directly.

How can businesses use Instagram Direct?

Instagram Direct is not only important for individuals, but also for businesses. Especially, the reactions to and messages about Instagram stories reflect valuable feedback from followers. Companies should be just as active here as in the comments under their feed posts.

Conclusion: Instagram Stories are the foundation of a good marketing strategy

Instagram Stories are becoming an increasingly important part of a good marketing strategy. To make it easier to work on Instagram stories as a team, Storrito can help. You can design, edit and schedule your stories from the comfort of your computer. This way, everyone has access to and an overview of your Instagram stories.

Tobias ManrothAuthor image
Tobias Manroth
CMO at Storrito

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