If you’ve been on Instagram any time recently, chances are you’ve seen the influx of “This or That Instagram Story Posts” that have been popping up everywhere.
Not sure what we’re talking about? Here’s an example from @thesundaychapter on Instagram:
So what makes This or That Instagram Story templates so popular, and why should you consider using them on your Instagram?
This post breaks down everything you need to know about the latest craze, as well as 7 exciting ideas you might like to use to create your own!
What Are “This or That Instagram Story Templates”?
‘This or That’ Instagram Story Templates are graphics that you can save (or create!) that pit a series of different choices against each other for the user to pick from. Generally, each template will be based on a theme. Eg. ‘Food’ or ‘Fashion’, with the different choices all relating to that theme.
The goal is for the user to make their choice between the various options (usually by circling the one they would pick or crossing out the one they wouldn’t). Then they share the completed version with their audience via Instagram Stories.
The result? A quick and entertaining glimpse into who you are as a person!
Why Are These Templates So Popular?
At the end of the day, Instagram is a social media platform. People connect with people! The reason the ‘This or That’ Instagram Story Templates have taken over and become so popular is that they’re all about interaction and connection.
They’re essentially a virtual version of a ‘get to know you’ game that the whole world can join in on! It’s a glimpse into who you are and the perfect chance to have a bit of fun with your followers.
Why Should You Consider Using This or That IG Story Templates
Ever since its launching, Instagram Stories have become increasingly popular, with many businesses, bloggers, and influencers effectively utilizing them to build brand awareness, increase engagement and connect with their audience on a more personal level.
When used correctly, Instagram Stories are a fantastic way to build trust and give your audience a glimpse into who the person behind the perfectly curated feed is. ‘This or That’ Instagram Story Templates are just another way to share interesting and original content whilst actively encouraging engagement amongst your followers.
What Templates Can I Create?
When it comes to a This or That Instagram story, the options are virtually endless! If you’re feeling stuck for ideas, we’ve put together 7 potential ideas to help get your creative juices flowing.
7 Exciting This or That Instagram Story Ideas (+ FREE customizable Templates)
Feel inspired by any of the examples below? Click the image to start creating in Easil – it’s free to get started:
1. This or That Food Edition Template
Think pasta vs pizza, sweet vs savory, tea vs coffee. These types of templates are perfect for food bloggers to share their personal preferences as well as get an understanding of the type of content their followers want to see.
2. This or That Fashion Edition Story Template
Have a fashion-based business and wondering what items you should stock next? Why not do a quick poll via a curated template! Maxi skirts vs mini-skirts, casual tees vs work blouses, pants vs dresses. To see their answers, include a blank template and ask them to share their own and tag you in it.
3. This or That Music & Entertainment Edition Template
This is a fun one for any Instagrammer to use! Music is a popular topic with just about everybody, and most people will have their personal preferences so it’s also a great opportunity to get your audience to engage with you. The 80s vs 90s, rock vs pop, Britney vs Madonna, etc. Encourage your followers to send a DM to discuss your choices vs theirs.
4. This or That Holidays Edition Template
Vacation vs Staycation, cruise vs travel tour, budget vs blowout. If you’re a travel blogger, this could be the perfect chance to do a bit of market research and figure out what your next adventure should be! Or if you work within the Travel and Tourism industry selling holidays, use it to gather market research to formulate best performing deals.
5. This or That Weekends Edition Template
Another great one for any Instagrammer to use is a chance for you to share a bit about your activities outside of what you showcase on your feed. Think things such as Netflix vs Stan, drinks on the town vs staying in, dining out vs Uber Eats at home, etc.
Encourage engagement by asking your followers to share their own answers and tag you, or send you a message with recommendations based on one of your answers (best Netflix shows, places to eat, etc).
6. This or That Lifestyle Edition Template
Perfect for influencers and bloggers to get an idea of what content their audience is most interested in, these templates can include things such as splurge vs save, summer vs winter, makeup vs skincare, casual style vs high-end fashion, etc.
7. This or That Social Networks Template Edition
Wondering where your audience is most likely to be hanging out and how you can best reach them? These templates may just help you! Ask things such as stories vs feed, live vs recorded, Pinterest vs Instagram, morning vs evening, etc.
Don’t forget to let your users know how to engage: To use templates on your Instagram Stories, simply screenshot the blank version and upload it to your story from your camera roll! Before publishing, circle your choices using the draw tool.
How Can You Get The Most Out Of Your Templates?
While ‘This or That’ templates are a fun and entertaining way to share tidbits of your life with your audience, they can actually be a powerful tool for businesses, bloggers, and influencers as well!
To get the most out of your templates and encourage as much interaction from your followers as possible, we recommend placing a blank template in your story and asking them to fill out their own version, and tagging you in it so you can see their answers. From here, you can start building relationships with them based on their answers. Find something you have in common and send them back a DM that starts a conversation relating to it.
Remember, it’s all about human connection! You can also encourage your followers to respond via DM or comment providing feedback based on your answers.
While there are plenty of existing templates already out there, we also recommend creating your own that relate directly to your business. This can be a great way to collect information from your followers! You can also easily plan ahead and schedule these types of fun and engaging posts.
For example, if you have a skincare business, you could create your Instagram Story to ask your followers to choose between various skin pain points. These answers can then help you create content that appeals to your audience (such as a series of skincare tips). It can also help with market research for future products.
Over to you
Want to create your own This or That Instagram Story designs? The good news is that with the help of Easil you can quickly and effectively create your own branded templates!
Simply click on any of the pre-made templates in the Instagram Stories category and customize as you need – all of these are available free!
