If you’re running an online business, chances are you’ve been told to “get visible on social media” more times than you can count. But with so many features like Reels, Stories, Lives, and Posts, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed – I know I was! One of the biggest confusions we hear from entrepreneurs starting out is, “What’s the difference between Facebook and Instagram Reels and Stories – aren’t they the same thing?”
Throw in TikTok and you’ve got a real mire of social media misunderstandings!
The short answer is to the question is: not quite. There are similarities but there are some important differences too. And knowing how and when to use each one can make a big difference to how your brand grows.
In this post, we’ll break it all down – simply, clearly, and with a focus on how to use both Reels and Stories to build trust, reach new audiences, and show up consistently as you. Which is, after all, the reason you are even considering these in the first place!
What are Reels?
Reels are short, engaging videos designed to entertain, inspire or educate. Originally introduced by Instagram to compete with TikTok, they’re now also available on Facebook.
Key features of Reels:
- Can be up to 90 seconds long on Instagram (longer on Facebook)
- Can include music, filters, text and transitions
- Appear in the main feed, Reels tab, Explore page, and sometimes in Stories
- Stay on your profile unless you delete them
- Can reach new people who don’t follow you yet
- Great for storytelling, tutorials, behind-the-scenes, or promotional content
Why use Reels as an entrepreneur?
- They’re discoverable: the algorithm often pushes Reels to wider audiences so you can increase your audience
- You can show your personality and brand style
- You can repurpose blog content or tips in a short video format
- Viewers can like, comment, save and share – increasing engagement
What are Stories?
Stories are temporary vertical posts (photos or videos) that disappear after 24 hours unless saved as a Highlight.
Key features of Stories:
- Only lasts up to 24 hours
- Maximum of 15 seconds per slide (videos longer than this are split)
- Ideal for quick updates, polls, Q&As, and showing what’s happening right now to increase interest, or build excitement – e.g. 30 minutes to curtain up!
- Only visible to your followers unless shared via a link or tagged
- Often feel more personal and spontaneous, like a ‘backstage’ insight
- You can add stickers, links, emojis, text, GIFs and more
Why use Stories as an entrepreneur?
- You stay at the top of your audience’s mind by appearing at the top of your followers’ app
- You can interact with your audience in real time using polls and questions, etc.
- They humanise your brand with a ‘day-in-the-life’ feel of the content
- You can drive traffic to your website using a link sticker
Reels vs Stories: What’s the difference?
| Feature | Reels | Stories |
| Lifespan | Permanent until deleted | 24 hours |
| Audience | Public (wider reach) | Followers only (unless shared) |
| Discovery | Shown in Explore/Reels tabs | Appear at the top of feed |
| Tone | Polished, creative | Casual, real-time |
| Length | Up to 90 seconds | Up to 15 seconds per slide |
| Engagement features | Likes, comments, shares | Stickers, polls, replies |
How to use both effectively in your business
Both Reels and Stories should have a place in your content strategy – they just serve different roles and you need to think what you want to achieve to decide which one to use.
Think of it this way:
- Reels are for visibility and audience growth
- Stories are for connection and conversion with your existing audience
You might use Reels to:
- Share a tip from your latest blog post
- Show a “before and after” of a client result
- Give a mini tour of your workspace or process
Then use Stories to:
- Ask your audience what they’re struggling with today
- Share a behind-the-scenes look at what you’re working on
- Promote the Reel you just posted (yes, cross-promoting is a smart move!)
Pro tips for using Reels and Stories together
- Post your Reel, then promote it in your Story with a link
- Reuse Reels across both Instagram and Facebook for maximum reach
- Save high-performing Stories in a Highlight (e.g. “Tips”, “Freebies”, “Behind the Scenes”)
- Batch create Reels using templates or scripts, and schedule them using Meta Business Suite
Final thoughts
Social media doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Reels and Stories may look similar, but when used with intention, they can work together to grow your audience, boost engagement, and build your brand in an authentic way.
Start with one Reel and one Story this week. Don’t aim for perfection – aim for presence in the marketplace and build from there.
The Body Shop started with one shop in Littlehampton, England. Boots the Chemist began in Nottingham. Ben & Jerry’s! The iconic ice cream brand started as a small shop in Burlington, Vermont.
Where will you start and what will you build?
Facebook and Instagram links here!
Related posts
How to use AI for online business success
Personal branding for online business
How to write for blogs: top tips for beginners
Brilliant article, Gail! This was incredibly helpful and clearly explained – especially for entrepreneurs like me who have felt totally overwhelmed by the different social media features. I now understand how to use Reels and Stories with purpose, not just post for the sake of it. The comparison table and real-life examples were especially useful. Time to show up with intention and start connecting – thank you for the push! ✨
Hi there. I’m so pleased that you found the article useful – sometimes it’s the basics that we need explanations on so I’m very happy that this has helped you with your social media content. It can be confusing when you start and things change so quickly too that it hard to keep up sometimes. However, I wish you luck with your social media posting and look forward to hearing how it’s going for you. Gail
Really helpful breakdown. This cleared up a lot of confusion I’ve had about when to use Reels vs. Stories. I always assumed they were just two versions of the same thing, but now I get how they serve totally different purposes. As someone who’s more comfortable behind the scenes, the tip about using Stories to build connection in a more low-key way really hit home. I also liked the reminder that showing up doesn’t have to mean being perfect. Do you have any advice for guys who feel awkward on camera but still want to show up consistently?
Dear Rob. Many thanks for reading the article and for your kind comments – I’m so pleased it was helpful to you and cleared up a few things related to reels and stories. In answer to your question, if you are a little bit camera shy, that’s fine. There are plenty of channels and videos out there that are essentially ‘faceless’ and do not have a person in front of camera which do very well. You could consider using a voice over or even an AI avatar if you want to. Otherwise, my advice is to just ‘go for it’ and don’t judge. Like I said, it’s not about being perfect – people buy from people. You may like to look at may article on personal branding to read more on that topic.
All the best with your online business.
Gail