Introduction: The Scroll Has Changed

Hey there. Have you noticed you’re writing posts, creating reels, pinning on Pinterest—and yet, the algorithm feels like it’s working against you. Do you feel frustrated, like I do, on seeing low engagement or wondering why your content isn’t reaching people? We are all in the same boat. A big part of the shift is that the way people consume content has changed, and now more than ever, in 2025, it’s emotion and storytelling that stop the scroll.

The best part is? You don’t have to be a novelist or expert content creator to use storytelling in your social media posts. All you need are a few intentional techniques—and some story hooks to help you get started. Examples below on what’s trending now…

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What Is a Storytelling Hook?

A storytelling hook is the opening sentence (or two) that grabs attention and makes someone stop scrolling. Think of it like the headline of a blog post or the first line of a good book. If it makes you feel something—curious, nostalgic, surprised—it’s working.

But storytelling isn’t about being clever. It’s about being human. It’s about showing real experiences, emotions, and lessons that your audience can connect with. Like a good novel, it is about a narrative that evokes an emotional response in your audience and helps them connect with you.

For example when you are scrolling on any of the social media platform, what makes you stop and click on a post? What attracted you to that post? Recreate that same feeling via your post with visuals and text. Emotions make this world go round.

Struggling to figure out what to share on Stories? I’ve got you covered—grab my Instagram Story Ideas List with fill-in-the-blank prompts made for small business owners.

Why Storytelling Works So Well on Social Media

With advent of social media, and modern technology and smart gadgets, we have become lonelier than ever. Now, we crave connection—not just information. Algorithms now favor content that gets saved, shared, commented on, and watched until the end. Story-driven content does all of this. And it works across platforms—whether you’re writing Instagram captions, creating Reels, or sharing a Pinterest idea pin.

When you use stories, your content moves beyond “tips” or “look at me” posts. It becomes something people relate to—and more importantly, something they remember.

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4 Types of Stories That Build Trust and Engagement

1. “The Why” Story – Why You Do What You Do

This story builds the bridge between you and your audience. It’s not about your own story of origin being perfect. It’s about being honest. It tells your audience why you started your business and from where it started. And what compels you to do what you do. Your raison d’etre.

Examples

• Online Business Example:
  When I launched my digital shop, I was scared no one would buy. I made templates at night while my kids slept and wondered if it was all a waste of time. But I kept going…
• Author Example:
  I started writing after losing my job. It gave me something to hold onto when everything else felt uncertain.
• Bookstagrammer Example:
  Book reviews were my escape during a time when I couldn’t afford therapy. Now, it’s my way of connecting with others.

Want to make sure your next Reel lands well? My Instagram Reels Checklist breaks down everything you need to include—so your stories don’t just play, they connect.

“The Who” Story – Telling Your Audience’s Story

This isn’t about selling. It’s about showing that you get your audience and understand where they are coming from. Their pain point. This builds trust in your and credibility in your words. This would be a game-changer if you learn this technique. It tells your audience that you are with them.

• Online Business:
  You’re juggling your business, your day job, and still trying to post consistently. I see you.
• Author:
  You’re rewriting your draft for the 7th time and wondering if it’s still worth it.
• Bookstagrammer:
  You spend your weekends reading ARCs and still wonder if anyone notices the effort.

3. “The How” Story – Behind the Product or Process

Show them what goes into what you do—how you design, write, create, or manage. This talks about the benefits of your services and how this product or service first emerged.

• Online Business:
  Here’s what it actually looks like to create a week of social posts using templates and a toddler by my side.
• Author:
  Here’s the spreadsheet I use to track plot points because I kept losing threads halfway through my manuscript.
• Bookstagrammer:
  I used to write reviews off the top of my head. Now I batch them with Canva carousels and this system saves me 4 hours a week.

4. “The Obstacle” Story – When Things Didn’t Go Smoothly

I have come to realize people relate more to your mess than your highlight reel. Use storytelling to show the lesson in the struggle. Being vulnerable online is difficult (I still find it so difficult) but it helps build real connections with your audience because you are showing your human side to them. When emotions are evoked, they are invested in your words.

• Online Business:
  I launched my first digital product and got two sales. One was from a friend. The second? From me testing the checkout button.
• Author:
  I pitched 27 agents. Got ghosted 25 times. And cried after the 26th rejection. Then came email 28.
• Bookstagrammer:
  My first reel got 17 views. I archived it. Then I made one I loved, and it got 17,000 views.

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How to Create a Story Hook

Here’s a simple structure to guide your storytelling content:

1. Think of a lesson learned: A challenge you’ve had that your audience can relate to. Imagine how you can turn this into a post.
2. Start with the story plot line: Set the scene quickly. Where were you? What happened? What was the result?
3. Make it Me-focused: Make it as personal as you can. All stories need relatable characters that your audience can connect with.
4. Build the emotion: What did you feel or realize? Rewrite until your words evoke emotions. This will come with practice.
5. Talk like a human, not a bot: Share your personal experiences. That will make it rich and authentic.

Pro Tip: Use the Notes app on your phone and start taking down notes when you see posts that make you feel something and then use the same kind of emotions on your posts. You need to make posts similar to those you click.

Use these 20+ prompts to take the guesswork out of what to post next

Real Storytelling in Practice: Platform Examples

Instagram:

• Use storytelling in carousel captions and Reels. Try a hook as the first slide:
  I almost gave up on yoga poses but then I remembered how as an 85-year-old, I would still like to be able to continue with gardening..
• The second slide
  I started with simple poses that help me stretch like…and now I find myself more energetic than before

Pinterest:

• Use story-style pins to share mini case studies or creator journeys.
  What happened when I posted daily on Pinterest for 30 days…

Email:

• Start with a hook.
  I didn’t think I was ‘creative enough’ to run a business. Here’s what changed…

If Pinterest is part of your strategy, my Soft Storytelling Templates help you share your message with visuals that feel more personal and less promotional.

Conclusion: Tell the Story, Not Just the Info

No matter your niche, your audience wants to know who you are—not just what you know. Storytelling makes you relatable, memorable, and magnetic. And while you might not feel like a storyteller yet, like I have still not mastered it, believe me when I say this. You already have stories your audience needs to hear.

This is the best time to make your next post more human and more helpful, showing the world the AUTHENTIC YOU.

Ready to turn conversations into conversions? Download ManyChat Made Simple for Instagram and learn how to automate authentic replies

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