Snapchat isn’t just a platform for silly filters and disappearing selfies. It’s a powerhouse for businesses looking to connect with a younger, engaged audience in a way that FEELS fresh and authentic. For stories, you can use our Snapchat Story Viewer to observe many examples of content posted by both users and brands. With over 600 million daily active users – mostly Gen Z and Millennials – Snapchat offers a unique space for brands to stand out.

This guide dives into how businesses can leverage Snapchat to build awareness, drive engagement, and boost sales.

Let’s break it down into four key sections, each packed with practical tips to get you started.

Why Snapchat Matters for Your Brand

Snapchat’s vibe is different from other social platforms. It’s raw, real-time, and built on fleeting moments, which makes users feel like they’re getting an unfiltered peek into your world.

snapchat icons for graphics

That’s a goldmine for brands who know how to play it right. The app’s focus on Stories, Lenses, and Discover lets businesses create immersive experiences that don’t feel like traditional ads. Plus, its audience skews young – about 70% of users are under 34 – so it’s perfect for reaching folks who might scroll past your posts elsewhere. Why should you care? Because these users are active, loyal, and ready to engage if you hit the right tone.

The platform’s design encourages creativity over polish.

You don’t need a Hollywood budget to make an impact – a clever idea and some quick execution can go a long way.

Snapchat’s users expect brands to be fun, not stuffy, so you’ve got room to experiment.

Snapchat’s ad platform here isn’t like tossing ads on Instagram or TikTok – it’s about creativity, quick thinking, and tapping into what makes this app so addictive. And with other features like Sponsored Lenses, you can reach people in ways that feel less like marketing and more like entertainment. But how do you make sure your brand doesn’t flop on this fast-paced app? (It starts with understanding what makes Snapchat tick.)

Here’s why Snapchat should be on your radar:

  • It’s where the cool kids hang out – Gen Z and Millennials spend hours daily on Snapchat, making it a prime spot to grab their attention.
  • Disappearing content creates urgency – Users know Snaps vanish, so they’re more likely to engage right away.

Crafting a Winning Snapchat Strategy

Building a Snapchat strategy isn’t about throwing spaghetti at the wall and hoping it sticks. You need a plan that aligns with your brand’s goals while vibing with Snapchat’s playful energy. Start by figuring out what you want to achieve – brand awareness, website traffic, or maybe direct sales?

Then, tailor your content to fit the platform’s unique style. Snapchat isn’t the place for long-winded posts or overly polished ads.

Keep it short, snappy, and authentic.

One way to shine is by tapping into Snapchat’s storytelling tools. Stories let you share a series of Snaps that last 24 hours, perfect for behind-the-scenes looks or limited-time offers. For example, a coffee shop could post a Story showing their barista crafting a latte, followed by a (quick) poll asking, “What’s your go-to drink?” It’s simple but pulls users in. And don’t sleep on Snapchat’s analytics – they’ll show you who’s watching and how they’re engaging. Ready to get strategic?

Try these steps to nail your Snapchat game:

✨ Define clear goals – Are you aiming for more followers, clicks to your site, or product sales?
✨ Know your audience – Study Snapchat’s demographics to create content that resonates with them.
✨ Post consistently – Share Stories or Snaps at least a few times a week to stay visible.
✨ Use a mix of content types – Combine photos, videos, and text to keep things dynamic.
✨ Experiment with timing – Test posting at different times to see when your audience is most active.
✨ Track your performance – Use Snapchat’s Insights to measure views, engagement, and conversions.

Consistency is key, but don’t just post for the sake of posting. Every Snap should have a purpose, whether it’s to entertain, inform, or sell. A clothing brand, for instance, could share a Story showing how their jeans are made, then drop a Snap with a discount code for first-time buyers. (It’s about creating a flow that feels natural.)

And don’t be afraid to mess up a little… Snapchat users love brands that feel human, not robotic. What’s stopping you from trying something bold?

Mastering Snapchat’s Advertising Tools

Snapchat’s ad options are a marketer’s playground, but they’re not one-size-fits-all. From Snap Ads to Sponsored Lenses, each tool has its own strengths. Snap Ads are short, VERTICAL video ads that appear between Stories or in the Discover section.

They’re great for driving quick actions, like visiting a website or downloading an app. The recently launched Sponsored AI Lenses, on the other hand, let users interact with your brand through both AI and augmented reality (AR) – think filters that transform their face or surroundings. These can be a bit pricier but deliver huge engagement. Setting up a campaign is straightforward with Snapchat’s Ads Manager.

You pick your goal (awareness, traffic, or conversions), set a budget, and choose your audience.

The platform lets you target based on age, location, interests, and even behaviors like “frequent travelers.” But here’s the catch – your ads need to feel like they belong on Snapchat.

A stiff, corporate vibe will tank fast. How can you make ads that don’t scream “ad”?

Check out these ad tools to boost your campaigns:

  • Snap Ads – Short, full-screen video ads that grab attention fast.
  • Sponsored Lenses – AR filters that let users play with your brand in a fun way.
  • Story Ads – Ads that appear within curated Stories for maximum reach.
  • Collection Ads – Showcase multiple products with direct links to buy.
  • Dynamic Ads – Automatically create ads based on your product catalog.
  • Commercials – Non-skippable 6-second video ads for high-impact moments.
  • Filters – Custom overlays users can add to their Snaps, tied to your brand.

Let’s say you run a skincare brand. You could create a Sponsored Lens that lets users “try on” your new face mask with sparkly effects, then link it to a Snap Ad driving them to your shop. (The combo of fun and function works like a charm.) Just make sure your creative is bold – muted colors or boring visuals won’t cut it. And always test your ads with a small budget first to see what clicks. Data doesn’t lie, so let it guide you.

social camera capture

Engaging Your Audience with Creative Content

Content is the heart of Snapchat marketing. Users want to feel like they’re part of your brand’s story… not just watching from the sidelines.

That means creating Snaps that are visually catchy and emotionally engaging. Behind-the-scenes content, like showing your team packing orders or brainstorming new products, builds trust. You can also use polls, quizzes, or “swipe up” links to get users interacting. (The goal? Make them feel involved, not sold to.)

Augmented reality is Snapchat’s secret sauce. Brands that use AR Lenses or Filters see higher engagement because users love playing with interactive elements.

For instance, a pet food company could create a Filter that adds puppy ears to users’ faces, paired with a Snap promoting a new treat line.

It’s fun, shareable, and subtly sells your product. But don’t JUST rely on gimmicks – balance creativity with authenticity.

Why not let your audience peek behind the curtain?

Here are 5 ways to keep your content fresh and engaging:

  1. Share unpolished, behind-the-scenes moments to humanize your brand.
  2. Create Lenses or Filters that let users interact with your products.
  3. Ask simple questions to spark engagement, like “Which flavor should we launch next?”
  4. Repost Snaps from fans (with permission) to build community.
  5. Snaps should be 10 seconds or less to hold attention.

Engagement doesn’t happen by accident. You’ve gotta be intentional about creating content that feels like a conversation… not a lecture.

Try mixing up your Stories with a mix of humor, education, and calls to action. And don’t be afraid to take risks – a quirky Snap that flops is better than a boring one that gets ignored. What’s the worst that could happen? Keep tweaking and learning from what your audience loves.