Keep it REEL - Instagram Reels for Growing Your Brand
By: Marcela Mack
What Are Instagram Reels?
Reels are Instagram’s newest video addition to keep up with TikTok. It’s the same premise, with 15-30 second engaging videos that capitalize on trends. You can share them to your story, profile, and more.
Instagram is starting to put emphasis on video content rather than static photos. It has even taken over the layout of the home page, taking the center spot to encourage users to watch and make reels. So, if you want to seriously grow your engagement, get ready to reel.
The Reels Algorithm
Since Reels are the newest addition, Instagram is going to prioritize Reels over typical feed posts, as it wants you to use their newest feature.
The Reels algorithm prioritizes engagement (likes, comments, shares, saves and DMs). So if you want to increase your following, its most important to increase your engagement. You can encourage viewers to engage with your content in a multitude of ways:
In the caption, tell them to comment or tag someone, or to save the post for later.
Do a giveaway!
Make a poll for them to vote on in your story.
Promote your latest reel or post in your story.
Use trending hashtags
While Reels are the driving force, you want to utilize all of Insta’s features to promote every post and keep your audience engaged.
The Reels algorithm shows you things that are similar to what you typically interact with, reels from people you already follow, or suggested reels based on your shown interests. So, if you can keep your content consistent, then viewers will be sent back to you.
TikTok Vs. Reels
Now, a lot of people are taking their videos from TikTok and posting them straight to Reels, since they are so similar. Instagram has taken notice and ranks videos with the TikTok watermark lower than those created just for Reels. So, if you want to stay at the top of the charts, use an app for removing the TikTok watermark, or distinguish your reels content from your TikTok content.
Eventually, there will be different kinds of content that applies only to Reels, the same way that Instagram stories are different than your Snapchat story.
Growing Your Brand With Reels
Capitalize on trends
Don’t be afraid to be a band-wagon. Hop on some popular trends and make them your own by tailoring the content to relate to your brand’s message.
Make Sure Your Reels Are Professional
Plan and practice what you’re going to do, and be sure to include some good editing or utilize the reel features efficiently. You want your content to be enticing to the viewer so they stay and watch longer, leading to a connection.
Don’t Make It Feel Like an Ad
Make authentic and creative content that finds fun a way to drive home your message or promote your products.
ENGAGEMENT!
Said it once and I’ll say it again: encourage engagement from your viewers! Do all that you can to foster a connection with your viewers so that they can become customers.
Sources:
https://buffer.com/library/instagram-feed-algorithm/
https://later.com/blog/instagram-reels/