If you are a creator, you know the pain of creating content but failing to reach your audience. This has been a major concern to creators using Instagram especially when you have few followers, or you are not verified.

Just a year ago, only big creators and verified accounts could share links to respective projects in Instagram stories through the “swipe up feature.” But that has changed. On Wednesday, 27th October 2021, Instagram announced that all users can now access its link sticker feature.

What is a Link Sticker Feature?

This is a new Instagram feature that allows everyone to share links in their ‘stories’.

Instagram started testing its link feature in June by giving access to a few creators. The feature was well-received, and several users also demanded access. In response to demand, the social media platform has made it available to everyone.

Instagram Decision to roll out the Links Sticker Feature

“We made this decision based on the feedback we heard from the community about how impactful it would be for creators and businesses of all sizes to benefit from link sharing to grow in the same way larger accounts do,” Instagram said in a statement.

However, there are Instagram users who cannot access the feature due to the platform’s community guidelines to ensure safety.

“As part of our ongoing efforts to limit harmful content on Instagram, new accounts and accounts that repeatedly share things like hate speech and misinformation, or other content that violates our community guidelines will not have access to the link sticker” – the Instagram official website published.

However, if your account does not violate any of the Instagram guidelines and it’s fairly old, then you can appeal to get the feature. (Understanding what is wrong with your account). But before that, check whether your account is eligible.

How to add links to your stories

You can access the link feature by selecting the sticker icon from the top navigation bar when capturing or uploading content to your story. 

• Capture or upload content to your story
• Select the sticker tool from the top of the navigation bar
• Tap the “link” sticker to add the link you would love your audience to click.
• Place the sticker on your story

If you are among the visual aesthetic individuals, you can tap on the sticker to see colour variations. This allows you to customize your link to suit your taste.

Appearances do matter, so play with the sticker to make it appealing and ensure it does not cover important aspects of your content.

This is the first step to ensure equity, expression, and enablement for Instagram users. As Instagram keeps on growing as a social media platform, we expect more because change makers and creators use the platform to share their passion.