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Want to share those behind-the-scenes moments, but only with your closest pals? Enter Instagram’s “Close Friends” feature – a handy way to curate a smaller audience for those more personal or exclusive stories. It’s perfect for sharing moments without the whole world seeing, whether it’s a sneak peek, a relaxed selfie, or just something you don’t want on everyone’s screen. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating a Close Friends list on Instagram:
Step 1: open your Instagram app
First things first, open your Instagram app, and head to your profile by tapping on the bottom right icon – it’s your beautiful profile picture.
Step 2: access Close Friends list
Tap the three horizontal lines (hamburger menu) in the top-right corner of your profile. From the menu that pops up, select “Close Friends”. This is where you can begin the magic.
Step 3: add people to your Close Friends list
You’ll see suggestions based on who you interact with most. Scroll through or use the search bar to find friends you want on your list. Once you see someone you want to add, just tap the “Add” button next to their name. Don’t worry, Instagram won’t notify them that you’ve added or removed them – keeping it super chill.
Pro Tip: Choose those who you really want to share more authentic and exclusive content with. Whether it’s your besties, loyal customers, or just those people who “get you,” make this list count!
How to know if you’re on someone’s Close Friends list?
If you’re on someone else’s list, you’ll notice a green ring around their story instead of the usual pink/orange one. This means they’ve shared a story specifically with their Close Friends – yep, you’re part of the inner circle! Keep in mind, there’s no official notification; it’s just a special ring and maybe a warm fuzzy feeling.
Does Instagram automatically add people to Close Friends?
Nope, Instagram doesn’t automatically add anyone to your list. It’s a manual process, meaning you have full control over who makes the cut. Instagram may provide suggestions based on who you interact with frequently, but it’s always up to you to decide who gets added or removed. So don’t worry about any surprise guests.
Can anyone see my Close Friends list on Instagram?
No, only you can see who’s on your list. Unlike a public followers list, this one stays completely private. The people you add won’t know they’re on it (unless they see that green story ring pop up), and they definitely won’t be able to see who else is on your list. So go ahead and make your Close Friends list as exclusive as you want!
Sharing stories with your close friends?
After you’ve created your Close Friends list, you can easily share stories exclusively with them. When you’re about to post a story, you’ll see an option at the bottom labeled “Close Friends”. Just tap that, and only the people on your list will get a glimpse of that epic behind-the-scenes content. Say goodbye to second-guessing who will see what!
How marketers can use the Close Friends feature?
You can create a Close Friends list of your most engaged followers, loyal customers, or brand advocates to offer them exclusive content. Think behind-the-scenes footage of a product launch, early access to offers, or even sneak peeks of upcoming campaigns. This level of access makes your followers feel like they’re part of an insider community – adding to the feeling of exclusivity and loyalty that, for example, Billie Eilish cultivated.
Learn from Billie Eilish’s Close Friends Strategy
Billie used Instagram’s Close Friends feature to build a more intimate relationship with her fans, offering them sneak peeks and content that felt raw, genuine, and personal. This strategy isn’t just for pop stars – it can be a game-changer for marketers and brands too.
Brands could use this feature to provide real value, like offering early access codes, personalized shout-outs, or the “why” behind your brand decisions. Keep it personal, keep it exclusive, and make your audience feel like VIPs. Just like Billie’s fans, your audience will love getting an exclusive look behind the curtain, which could lead to better brand loyalty and higher engagement rates.
Keep it super easy!
Whether you’re keeping your Close Friends in the loop or managing brand-specific stories, staying organized on social media is essential. With Kontentino, you can schedule and manage content across multiple platforms effortlessly – all while making sure each story or post reaches the right audience. Give Kontentino a try and make social media management as easy as tapping that “Close Friends” button!
