How to Create a Snapchat Story Worth Watching

What makes a great Snapchat story? Think of the best stories you've ever read or watched. They hook their audience with the opening line, they build suspense, making you want to continue watching, and they're full of personality and creativity. To create a Snapchat story worth watching, you have to approach it like a storyteller. But before you jump in, let's make sure that your settings are right. Swipe down from the Camera view to see the main menu and tap the gear set. Who can see my story to Everyone to add content to your story, go to the camera view and tap the shutter button to take a photo. Or tap and hold to record a video that's up to 10 seconds long. Go ahead and add some text, resize it, or throw in a sticker and some doodles, hit the blue arrow and choose to send to my story. It'll be available to anyone to see on the Stories tab for the next 24 hours. One suggestion if you're sending snaps directly to people, don't include those in your story. Yes, even Snapchat has basic etiquette. If you want your story to stand out, a little bit of planning goes a long way. It's not about stringing a bunch of random snaps together. Instead, embrace your inner director and draw out a quick storyboard. Great stories have an actual story arc, including an establishing shot to set the scene, a climax, and a call to action. This will train you to think about pacing too. Alternate between short images and video and longer shots. If you're a business on Snapchat, offer a behind the scenes look your audience can't get anywhere else. Ask questions, pose challeng all to increase engagement. Remember that on Snapchat, the power is in the hands of the user. There's no algorithm to dictate what content is shown. If a story fails to entertain or intrigue, they can pass right on by with the swipe of a finger. So be authentic, be fun, and ultimately be thoughtful. That's what Snapchat stories are all about.