How to Ask Anonymous Questions on Instagram: A Step-by-Step Guide
Instagram, the visual giant of social media, is more than just pretty pictures and curated aesthetics. It’s a dynamic platform for connection, communication, and community building. One of the most engaging ways to interact with your followers and spark conversations is by using the question sticker. While the standard question sticker allows users to directly ask you questions, sometimes people are hesitant to reveal their identity. That’s where anonymous question apps come in. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of using third-party apps to facilitate anonymous question-and-answer sessions on your Instagram Story.
## Why Use Anonymous Question Apps?
Before we dive into the how-to, let’s understand why anonymous questions are so popular. There are several reasons why both content creators and followers find them appealing:
* **Increased Engagement:** Anonymity can break down barriers and encourage more people to participate. People are often more likely to ask questions they might otherwise feel embarrassed or shy to ask publicly.
* **Honest Feedback:** Anonymous questions can elicit more candid and honest feedback about your content, products, or services. People may be more willing to share their true opinions when they don’t have to worry about repercussions or judgment.
* **Deeper Connections:** By addressing anonymous questions thoughtfully and honestly, you can build trust and foster deeper connections with your audience.
* **Fun and Curiosity:** The element of mystery and the anticipation of not knowing who asked a question can make the Q&A session more exciting and engaging for everyone involved.
* **Sensitive Topics:** For accounts dealing with sensitive topics like mental health, relationships, or personal development, anonymity can provide a safe space for people to ask for advice or share their experiences without fear of judgment.
## Choosing the Right Anonymous Question App
Several third-party apps enable anonymous questions on Instagram. It’s crucial to choose a reputable and reliable app that respects user privacy and data security. Here are a few popular options to consider:
* **NGL (Not Gonna Lie):** NGL is a widely used app that allows you to receive anonymous messages and questions. It’s known for its ease of use and clean interface.
* **Tellonym:** Tellonym focuses on feedback and allows users to receive anonymous comments and questions about themselves.
* **Sarahah:** Sarahah was one of the original anonymous feedback apps and remains a popular choice for those seeking honest opinions.
**Important Considerations When Choosing an App:**
* **Privacy Policy:** Always read the app’s privacy policy carefully to understand how your data and the data of your followers will be used.
* **Security Measures:** Ensure the app has robust security measures in place to protect against data breaches and unauthorized access.
* **User Reviews:** Check user reviews on the App Store or Google Play Store to get an idea of other users’ experiences with the app.
* **Features:** Consider the features offered by each app and choose one that best suits your needs. Some apps offer additional features like polls, quizzes, or the ability to block users.
* **Cost:** Some apps are free with ads, while others offer premium subscriptions with additional features and ad-free use.
## Step-by-Step Guide: Using NGL for Anonymous Questions
This guide will focus on using NGL (Not Gonna Lie) as an example, but the general process is similar for other anonymous question apps.
**Step 1: Download and Install the NGL App**
* Go to the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android) on your smartphone.
* Search for “NGL – anonymous q&a”.
* Tap “Install” and wait for the app to download and install on your device.
**Step 2: Create Your NGL Account**
* Open the NGL app.
* You’ll be prompted to enter your Instagram username. **Important:** Ensure you enter the correct username, as this is how NGL will link your profile to your Instagram account.
* Tap “Get Question!”
**Step 3: Copy Your Unique NGL Link**
* After entering your username, NGL will generate a unique link specifically for you.
* This link is what you will share on your Instagram Story to allow people to send you anonymous questions.
* Tap the “Copy Link” button to copy the link to your clipboard.
**Step 4: Create Your Instagram Story**
* Open the Instagram app.
* Tap the “+” icon at the top of the screen or swipe right on your home feed to create a new Story.
* You can take a photo, record a video, or choose an existing image or video from your camera roll.
**Step 5: Add the Link Sticker to Your Story**
* Once you have your Story background ready, tap the sticker icon at the top of the screen (it looks like a square with a smiley face).
* In the sticker tray, find the “Link” sticker. It might be labeled as “Link” or have a chain icon.
* Tap the “Link” sticker.
**Step 6: Paste Your NGL Link into the Link Sticker**
* A text box will appear where you can paste your link.
* Tap and hold inside the text box and select “Paste” from the menu.
* The NGL link you copied earlier will now be pasted into the link sticker.
**Step 7: Customize the Link Sticker Text (Optional)**
* By default, the link sticker might display the full NGL link, which can look messy.
* You can customize the text that appears on the sticker to make it more appealing and user-friendly.
* In the “Customize sticker text” field, type a clear and concise call to action, such as:
* “Ask me anything anonymously!”
* “Send me your questions!”
* “Anonymous Q&A!”
* “Confess anything!”
* Tap “Done” when you’re finished customizing the text.
**Step 8: Position and Resize the Link Sticker**
* Tap and drag the link sticker to position it where you want it on your Story.
* Use two fingers to pinch and zoom to resize the sticker as needed.
* Make sure the sticker is easily visible and doesn’t obstruct any important elements of your Story.
**Step 9: Add Context and Instructions (Optional)**
* To further encourage participation, you can add text to your Story explaining what the anonymous Q&A is about and providing clear instructions on how to submit questions.
* Use the text tool in Instagram Stories (the “Aa” icon) to add text to your Story.
* For example, you could write something like:
* “Hey everyone! I’m doing an anonymous Q&A today. Tap the link below to send me your questions!”
* “Got a burning question you’ve always wanted to ask? Now’s your chance! Tap the link to ask me anything anonymously.”
* Use different fonts, colors, and sizes to make your text visually appealing.
**Step 10: Share Your Story**
* Once you’re happy with your Story, tap the “Your Story” button in the bottom left corner to share it with your followers.
**Step 11: View and Answer Anonymous Questions in the NGL App**
* After you’ve shared your Story, people can tap the link sticker to access your NGL profile and send you anonymous questions.
* To view the questions you’ve received, open the NGL app.
* The questions will be displayed in your inbox.
* Tap on a question to read it.
**Step 12: Share Your Answers on Instagram Story**
* To answer a question, tap the “Reply” button below the question in the NGL app.
* NGL will automatically create a pre-designed image with the question on it.
* You can then add your answer to the image using the text tool in the NGL app.
* Alternatively, you can take a screenshot of the question and answer it directly on your Instagram Story using the Instagram Story editor.
* Tap the “Share” button to share your answer to your Instagram Story.
* The answer will be posted as a new Story, allowing your followers to see your responses.
## Best Practices for Anonymous Q&A Sessions
To ensure your anonymous Q&A sessions are engaging, respectful, and beneficial for both you and your audience, follow these best practices:
* **Set Ground Rules:** Before you start, clearly state any rules or guidelines for the Q&A. For example, you might say that you won’t answer questions that are offensive, discriminatory, or overly personal.
* **Be Honest and Authentic:** Answer questions as honestly and authentically as possible. People appreciate genuine responses.
* **Be Respectful:** Even if you disagree with a question or comment, respond respectfully and avoid getting into arguments.
* **Don’t Take It Personally:** Remember that anonymous questions can sometimes be critical or even hurtful. Try not to take it personally and focus on providing constructive responses.
* **Filter and Moderate:** You have the right to ignore or delete questions that you deem inappropriate or offensive. Most apps offer moderation tools to help you filter out unwanted content.
* **Promote Positivity:** Encourage positive and constructive questions and feedback. You can do this by highlighting thoughtful and insightful questions and by responding in a positive and encouraging manner.
* **Be Mindful of Privacy:** Avoid sharing any personal information about yourself or others in your answers. Be particularly careful when answering questions about sensitive topics.
* **Use a Disclaimer:** Consider adding a disclaimer to your Story stating that you are not responsible for the content of anonymous questions and that you reserve the right to delete any questions that violate your guidelines.
* **Engage Regularly:** Make anonymous Q&A sessions a regular part of your content strategy. This will help you build a strong and engaged community.
* **Respond to a Variety of Questions:** Try to answer a variety of questions to keep things interesting. Don’t just focus on the easy or flattering questions.
## Addressing Potential Risks and Concerns
While anonymous question apps can be a fun and engaging way to connect with your audience, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and concerns:
* **Cyberbullying and Harassment:** Anonymity can unfortunately embolden some people to engage in cyberbullying or harassment. It’s crucial to have a plan in place for dealing with such behavior. This might involve blocking users, deleting offensive questions, or reporting them to the app developers.
* **Inappropriate Content:** Anonymous question apps can be used to spread inappropriate or offensive content, such as hate speech, sexually suggestive material, or personal attacks. It’s important to be vigilant in monitoring the questions you receive and to take action against any inappropriate content.
* **Privacy Concerns:** Users should be aware that while their questions are anonymous to you, the app developers may still have access to their data. It’s important to choose an app that has a strong privacy policy and takes steps to protect user data.
* **Mental Health:** Receiving negative or critical anonymous questions can be detrimental to your mental health. If you are feeling overwhelmed or distressed by the questions you receive, it’s important to take a break from the app and seek support from friends, family, or a mental health professional.
## Alternatives to Third-Party Apps
While third-party apps are the primary way to get *truly* anonymous questions on Instagram, there are some alternative methods that provide a degree of anonymity, although not complete:
* **Use the Standard Question Sticker and Ask for “Anonymous” Questions:** You can use the regular question sticker on Instagram Stories and explicitly ask people to submit their questions without including their usernames in the question itself. While you’ll still see who submitted the question, if they intentionally leave their name off, you can treat it as anonymous in your response. This relies on the honesty of your followers.
* **Create a Separate “Feedback” Account:** Create a separate Instagram account specifically for receiving feedback or questions. Promote this account on your main account and encourage people to submit their questions or comments there. You can then review the questions and answer them on your main account without revealing the usernames of the people who submitted them. This is more work but adds a layer of separation.
* **Use a Poll or Quiz for Anonymous Input:** While not exactly questions, polls and quizzes offer a way to gauge opinions and gather information anonymously. You can create polls or quizzes on various topics and allow people to vote or answer without revealing their identities.
## Conclusion
Using anonymous question apps on Instagram can be a powerful way to boost engagement, gather honest feedback, and build deeper connections with your audience. By following the steps outlined in this guide and adhering to the best practices, you can create fun, engaging, and respectful anonymous Q&A sessions that benefit both you and your followers. Remember to prioritize privacy, safety, and responsible use, and always be mindful of the potential risks and concerns associated with anonymity. With careful planning and execution, anonymous questions can be a valuable tool for enhancing your Instagram presence and fostering a thriving online community.