How to Tag People in Instagram Story for Business Promotions

Table of Contents

Introduction

If you’re trying to boost your brand’s visibility and connect with your audience on Instagram, you need to know how to tag people in Instagram Story. This simple feature can take your promotions from average to viral. Tagging not only gives shoutouts but also encourages shares, collaborations, and interaction—key to business growth.

So, let’s explore how to tag people in Instagram Story effectively and creatively to make your business stand out.

What Does Tagging in an Instagram Story Mean?

Tagging someone in a story is like tapping them on the shoulder and saying, “Hey, check this out!” When you use the @mention feature or the “Mention” sticker, the tagged person gets a notification, and your story may also appear in their tagged stories section (if they choose to share it).

Learning how to tag people in Instagram Story strategically can drastically improve your reach and brand awareness.

How to Tag People in Instagram Story – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Open Instagram and Create a Story

Go to your Instagram app and tap on your profile image or the plus (+) icon at the top left to start creating a new story.

Step 2: Add Photo/Video Content

Upload an image, video, or create something using filters, Boomerangs, or text.

Step 3: Tap on the Text Tool or Sticker Icon

You can either use the text tool and type “@username” directly or use the “Mention” sticker available in the stickers section.

Step 4: Type @username

Start typing the handle of the person or brand you want to tag. Instagram will suggest matching usernames as you type. Click on the correct one to tag.

Step 5: Post Your Story

Once tagged, post the story as usual. The person you tagged will get a notification, and they can repost it to their own story for even more visibility.

Now that you’ve learned the steps, you’re one step closer to mastering how to tag people in Instagram Story.

Creative Ways to Tag People in Your Story

Using the Mention Sticker

The “Mention” sticker is more fun and visually noticeable than regular text. You can change its color and style.

Hiding Tags Behind Graphics or Text

Want a cleaner look? You can place your @mentions behind other elements—perfect for influencer giveaways or brand shoutouts.

Tagging Multiple Users

Yes, you can tag multiple people in a single story. Just don’t overdo it—focus on relevant tags only.

Making It Visually Appealing

Blend your tags naturally into your story layout. Bold text, colors, and positioning help draw attention.

Why Tagging People Helps Business Promotions

Learning how to tag people in Instagram Story opens the door to multiple marketing benefits:

Increases Story Reach

When someone shares your story on their profile, you tap into their audience too—doubling or even tripling your reach.

Boosts Engagement and Shares

Tagged users are more likely to interact, reply, or share your content, creating more buzz.

Builds Partnerships and Influencer Collabs

It’s a must-have strategy for influencer marketing, affiliate promotions, and brand partnerships.

Drives Traffic to Profiles and Products

Use tagging to direct traffic toward your business page, website, or a specific product page.

Best Practices for Tagging in Business Promotions

Tag Relevant People Only

Always tag those who are directly related to the content—it shows authenticity and respect.

Don’t Overuse or Spam

Too many tags look messy and desperate. Keep it clean and focused.

Use Branded Hashtags and Mentions Together

Tagging + hashtags = a power combo for discoverability.

If you’re wondering how to tag people in Instagram Story without annoying your followers, here’s the key…

How to Tag People in Instagram Story Without Being Spammy

Provide Value with Every Tag

Only tag someone if they’re featured, mentioned, or would genuinely benefit from seeing the story.

Combine Tags with Promotions or Giveaways

Example: “Tag your bestie and win a gift box!”—great for engagement and reach.

Personalize Your Mentions

Mention users by name or give them a compliment—this makes your tag feel more natural and friendly.

When to Tag People in Your Business Stories

Product Launches

Tag influencers, early adopters, or team members involved in the launch.

Collaborations and Influencer Marketing

Tagging collaborators boosts visibility on both ends and encourages reposts.

Event Promotions and Behind-the-Scenes Content

Show off your team, vendors, or guest speakers by tagging them.

Customer Testimonials and Reviews

Feature happy customers in stories and tag them with gratitude.

All these are excellent opportunities where knowing how to tag people in Instagram Story pays off big time.

How to Track Engagement from Tagged Stories

Use Instagram Insights

Business profiles can access Story insights to see views, clicks, and interactions.

Monitor Replies and Mentions

Track DMs or mentions you receive as a result of your tags.

Use UTM Links for External Tracking

Add UTM codes to any links you include so you can track click-throughs outside of Instagram.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Tagging people who are unrelated to the content
Tagging 10+ accounts in every story
Failing to respond to messages or shares from those you tagged

These can hurt your credibility and reduce story engagement.

How Businesses Can Leverage Tagging for Growth

Team up with influencers and cross-promote
Share user-generated content and tag your fans
Run contests that involve tagging for entry

These tactics show how knowing how to tag people in Instagram Story isn’t just about visibility—it’s about building community.

Final Thoughts

Tagging isn’t just a social media trick—it’s a serious marketing move when done right. Now that you know how to tag people in Instagram Story, start using this feature to amplify your brand, boost engagement, and grow your audience authentically. It’s free, fast, and ridiculously effective.

FAQs

Can I tag people after posting an Instagram story?

No, you can only tag people during the creation of the story. If you forget, just delete and repost with the tag.

Why aren’t my tags showing up in the story?

Make sure the username is correct and the account isn’t private or restricted.

Can I tag someone in a story from a business account?

Yes! Business accounts can tag individuals, influencers, or other brands freely.

How many people can I tag in one story?

You can tag up to 10 users per story.

Is there a difference between tagging with text and using the mention sticker?

Functionally, no. But the sticker is more visually engaging and gets noticed more easily.