Social media training for churches and faith-based non-profits requires finding the sweet spot where their needs, target audience, and resources intersect. Most of my clients can't post everywhere all the time.
For a while now, that sweet spot has been Instagram Stories. If you want to see your reach and impact grow on social media but have limited time for content creation and follower engagement, you should focus on Instagram Stories. Here's why:
Reaching the right people
Target audience: Instagram is the preferred platform for young adults, families, and professionals—the exact groups most churches want to connect with. These users primarily engage with Stories rather than scrolling through their post feed.
Front and center: Stories appear at the top of the app, giving them prime real estate and driving a Stories-first engagement with the platform.
More interactive and relational
Interactive features: The interactive features in Instagram Stories, like polls and questions, help followers feel more connected to your church.
Real-time sharing: Spontaneity is encouraged in Stories, making your followers feel like they are part of your church's journey.
Easier content creation
Quick and authentic: Anything short of really beautiful posts won't see much success on your main Instagram feed. With limited resources, you can more easily create Stories that feel genuine and authentic.
Timely: Instagram Stories disappear after 24 hours, while grid posts may take up to a week to cycle through your followers' feeds. Stories are ideal for sharing time-sensitive updates about upcoming programs and events.
Better algorithm love
More visibility: Instagram’s algorithm prioritizes accounts that use Stories, so posting regularly helps boost your church’s presence.
And now for the plug...
Want to learn how to use Instagram Stories effectively? Join my 90-minute workshop tailored for faith-based non-profits and churches eager to harness the potential of Instagram Stories.
Workshop Details:
Date and time: Thursday, June 27 at 12:30 p.m. ET
Description: This session will delve into the importance of Stories as a versatile tool for engaging with your community, sharing your mission, and fostering connections. We will introduce you to the variety of tools within Instagram Stories, teach you how to use them, and explore creative ideas and prompts. You'll leave feeling inspired and capable.
Who should attend: Whether you're a seasoned social media manager or just starting out, this workshop will equip you with actionable strategies to amplify your digital presence and strengthen your outreach efforts.
Register here. :)