How to Add Links to Your Instagram Story Using Stickers
Learn how to use Instagram's Link Sticker to add clickable links to your Stories, boost engagement, and drive traffic with best practices.
How to Add Links to Your Instagram Story Using Stickers
Instagram Stories are one of the most powerful tools for engagement, and adding a clickable link can turn your story into a direct funnel to your products, blog, or important content. Whether you're promoting an event, driving traffic to a shop, or sharing a new post, knowing how do you put links in your Instagram Story is a game changer for creators and businesses.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover the Link Sticker feature in detail, walk you through the step-by-step process for adding it, and share proven best practices to maximize your clicks and conversions.
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Understanding Instagram's Link Sticker Feature
In late 2021, Instagram replaced the old "Swipe Up" link feature with the more versatile Link Sticker. This sticker allows all eligible accounts to place a clickable link directly in their Story. When viewers tap the sticker, they are taken to the specified URL without leaving the app entirely.
Key advantages of the Link Sticker:
- Flexible styling and placement within your Story
- Easy to include alongside other interactive stickers
- Available to a broader range of accounts than before
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Check Account Eligibility
Before searching for the Link Sticker, ensure your account meets Instagram’s basic requirements:
- Public account: Private accounts can post Stories, but for maximum link sharing and reach, a public profile is recommended.
- Latest Instagram app version: Link Stickers roll out with app updates; an outdated version may hide the option.
Not all updates roll out globally at the same time—missing stickers could mean a phased release or the need for a manual update.
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Update the App to Enable Link Functionality
Keeping Instagram updated ensures you have access to new features.
Follow these steps:
- On iOS: Go to the App Store → Search for Instagram → Tap "Update" if available.
- On Android: Go to Google Play Store → Search for Instagram → Tap "Update".
Updating also helps fix bugs that may block sticker visibility.
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Open Story Creation and Select Content
To start your Story:
- Tap the "+" on your profile picture in the Stories section, or swipe right from your feed.
- Choose a photo or video from your gallery, or capture new content in real time.
High-quality images or videos encourage viewers to engage longer, increasing the chance they’ll click the link.
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Access Stickers Menu and Locate the "Link" Sticker
Once your content is ready:
- Tap the Sticker icon (smiley face in a square) at the top of the screen.
- Scroll or search for "Link".
- Select the Link Sticker to open the URL entry field.
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Paste URL and Customize Sticker Text
Paste your desired link into the provided field.
You can customize sticker display text to make CTAs clear:
- "Read Our Blog"
- "Shop the New Collection"
- "Register Today"
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Adjust Sticker Placement and Styling
Move and resize the Link Sticker until it’s:
- Highly visible without covering key content
- Positioned near visual cues like arrows or highlighted areas
Experiment with sticker color themes to match your brand palette.
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Add Relevant Hashtags, Mentions, and Calls-to-Action
Boost reach with relevant hashtags (#newarrivals, #event2024) and @mentions for partners or collaborators.
Effective CTAs drive clicks:
- "Tap the link to learn more"
- "Sign up through the link"
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Preview Story Before Posting
In preview mode, check:
- Does the sticker open the link correctly?
- Is the text legible on all screen sizes?
- Is placement consistent across devices?
Testing prevents broken links and poor viewer experience.
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Publish Story and Monitor Clicks via Instagram Insights
After publishing, use Instagram Insights to track link performance:
| Metric | Meaning | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Link Clicks | Number of times the sticker was tapped | Evaluates placement and CTA effectiveness |
| Impressions | Total views of your Story | Helps you calculate click-through rate (CTR) |
| Forward Taps | Views skipping forward to the next Story | Signals low engagement or content mismatch |
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Tips to Increase Link Clicks
- Use visual cues like arrows or animated stickers
- Select high-contrast colors so the sticker pops
- Overlay bold commands like “CLICK” or “TAP”
- Create a sequence of Stories to pique curiosity before revealing the link
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Best Practices for Promoting Offers or Content
- Highlight urgency for limited-time deals (“Ends tonight!”)
- Share value or teasers before the link
- Include Story links regularly to build audience habits
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Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting
Link Sticker Doesn't Appear
Possible causes:
- Outdated app version
- Feature not yet released in your region
- Network issues blocking sticker loading
Quick Fixes
- Update the app
- Restart Instagram
- Reinstall Instagram
- Try viewing stickers from a different device
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Combining Link Stories with Highlights
Stories expire in 24 hours, but Highlights let you keep them forever on your profile.
Steps:
- After posting, view the Story
- Tap "Highlight" at the bottom
- Add to a new or existing Highlight
Perfect for evergreen links like ongoing signup pages or flagship product collections.
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Creative Uses for the Link Sticker
- Product Pages: Showcase new collections with purchase links
- Blog Posts: Share summaries with a link to full posts
- Event Registration: Promote webinar or meetup forms
- Portfolio Showcases: Direct viewers to case studies or creative work
- Charity Campaigns: Enable direct donations from Stories
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Final Thoughts
Mastering how do you put links in your Instagram Story with the Link Sticker can significantly boost traffic and conversions. Strategic placement, compelling CTAs, and consistent experimentation will help you turn casual Story viewers into engaged visitors to your website or store. Keep your app updated, monitor analytics, and refine your approach—your link click rates will thank you.
Ready to take your Instagram marketing to the next level? Apply these tips today and watch your engagement grow.
