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Add a Link to Instagram Stories (3 Steps + Examples)

Remember when adding a link to an Instagram Story required at least 10,000 followers? Fortunately, Instagram has simplified this process with the introduction of link stickers. Now, you can easily add a link to an Instagram Story regardless of your follower count. Leveraging this feature can be highly beneficial, especially if you’re looking to monetize your Instagram presence. Over 60 percent of Instagram users research brands and products on the platform. Including links in your stories can direct this audience to your website or products.

Curious about how to add a link to an Instagram Story using link stickers? Let’s break it down into three simple steps and explore some examples from other creators and brands excelling with this feature.

Understanding Instagram Story Link Stickers

Instagram’s link sticker has replaced the old ‘swipe-up’ feature, which was only accessible to accounts with over 10,000 followers. Now, any account can use link stickers, regardless of its size or verification status. These stickers function similarly to other Instagram stickers, with a clickable link icon.

It’s important to note that each Instagram Story can only contain one link. However, you can customize the link sticker’s appearance to fit your branding by adjusting its size, position, and color.

Example of how several brands use link stickers in their stories.

When users tap on the link sticker, they are directed to the URL you’ve provided.

Adding a link sticker to your Instagram Story is straightforward. Follow these steps:

  1. Open the Instagram app, tap the plus icon at the bottom center, and select ‘Story.’
  2. Create new content by capturing or uploading a photo or video.
  3. Tap the sticker icon (sticky note symbol) at the top of the screen and select ‘Link‘ from the options.
  4. Input your URL and customize the sticker text if desired. Tap ‘Done’ when finished.
Screenshot of adding a link to Instagram Story

Customize the link sticker’s font and color. When you’re satisfied, tap the right arrow to post your story. Your link is now live!

Using Buffer to Add a Link to an Instagram Story

Did you know you can schedule link stickers in your Instagram Stories using Buffer? Here’s how:

  1. Log in to buffer.com, click ‘+ New,’ and create a new post.
  2. Select Instagram and then ‘Story’ from your channel list.
  3. Upload your media and make sure ‘Notify Me‘ is selected.
  4. Click ‘Link‘ and add your URL in the box.
  5. Schedule your post or add it to the queue.
Buffer scheduling link stickers for Instagram Stories

When it’s time to post, you’ll get a notification. Open Instagram via Buffer, copy your link, and follow the same steps to add a link sticker as described above.

1. Promote New Blog Posts

Share clickable links to your latest articles or evergreen content directly in your stories. This feature simplifies the process significantly, especially for those without access to the old swipe-up links.

HoneyBook promoting blog posts with link stickers
Example of how HoneyBook uses link stickers to promote its blog posts

2. Direct Followers to Specific Products

Make it easy for your audience to purchase featured products by adding a direct link to the product page within your story. This seamless experience enhances conversions.

Herschel promoting products with link stickers
How Herschel uses links to promote its products

3. Encourage Bookings for Your Services

Feature your service, respond to questions, or showcase customer testimonials in your stories, then add a link sticker that directs people to your booking page.

Freshii promoting services with link stickers
Freshii shares photos of its meals along with a link for customers to make an order

For event promotions, link stickers can direct followers to sign-up or RSVP pages, whether using your website or external tools like Facebook Events or Google Events.

Insomniac Events promoting event tickets with link stickers
Insomniac Events uses a link sticker to send customers to its website to purchase event tickets

Unlike the old swipe-up feature, link stickers allow followers to react and respond to your stories. Use them to engage with your audience creatively, such as through polls, questions, or carousel posts.

Sakara Life engaging audience with link stickers
Sakara Life engages its audience by combining carousel posts and polls along with links in its Instagram Stories

Seamlessly integrate link stickers into your story’s visual design. You can use tools like Canva to create on-brand story templates and then add the link sticker in a way that complements your overall look and message.

Buffer using branded link stickers in stories
Example of how we use links in our stories to match our branding

Utilize Clear and Strong Calls to Action

Leverage the flexibility of link stickers for impactful CTAs. Move beyond generic prompts like “swipe-up,” and be more deliberate with phrases like “see more,” “learn more,” or “try it out.” Position eye-catching stickers strategically within your stories to drive action.

Apartment Therapy using strong CTA with link stickers

To drive followers to its Pinterest Account, Apartment Therapy has a strong CTA and an arrow pointing to its sticker link

Every day, 500 million people use Instagram Stories. Using link stickers effectively can attract significant traffic to your website, whether you’re promoting products, services, or content. These stickers provide a seamless way for followers to engage more deeply with what you offer.

💡

Did you know you can schedule Instagram posts, reels, and stories ahead of time with Buffer? Now that you know how to add a link on your Instagram Stories, you can step up your Instagram game even further by planning out your stories in Buffer. Sign up for free →

Additional Instagram Resources

Looking to grow your Instagram account? Here are some must-read guides:

📚 When’s the Best Time to Post on Instagram?

📚 How the Instagram Algorithm Works in 2024: New Update from CEO Adam Mosseri

📚 Instagram Image and Video Size and Dimensions in 2024 — for Posts, Stories, and Reels

📚 How to Find Trending Audio on Instagram in 2024 (+17 Tracks to Use Right Now)

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