Making Instagram Reels Work for You
Instagram finally rolled out its newest product - Reels. Yanked straight from TikTok, Instagram is doing everything it can to keep users on its platform. And what better time to release a TikTok-like product than when the US and other countries are considering a ban on the Chinese-owned social media app?
So, what is so great about these 15-second long videos? It allows users more creative freedom, and to be less perfect on a platform that seems like nothing short of perfectly curated photos of people’s perfect lives. As more people on the platform look to follow brands and people who are real, instead of perfect, this is where Reels is a natural fit. It’s funny. it’s kitchy, and nobody has to worry about stealing other people’s content or ideas, because that’s the whole base it stands on.
Creators flocked in massive numbers to TikTok and embraced it with open arms when they realized how much more exposure their content would get on the platform as opposed to Instagram. Brands and influencers alike have struggled long enough getting their content seen by their followers due to the always-changing algorithm that keeps making it harder and harder for content to reach an ideal audience.
But now, as Instagram’s newest baby, Reels has shown that the algorithm is in high favor of this newest type of content. It’s placing priority on this type of content in hopes of keeping more users from straying to TikTok to scroll mindlessly and find humor among these weird times. It’s also begun suggesting popular Reels to users within their feed, much like they did when they decided to push Stories more on users.
Why should you be making Reels? Three reasons. First - the algorithm is pushing this type of content more than any other meaning it’s easier to reach more people, much faster than in-feed posts. Second - early adopters have more likelihood of having videos go viral than those who wait to utilize the product. Third - when more people see your content, that means more exposure and audience growth.
How do you get started though?
I recommend checking out your competitors or accounts/brands similar to yours. See if they’re utilizing Reels, and if so, how?
Take a scroll through Reels and see what sound is being used consistently by people and brands. This will tell you that the sound is gaining popularity and now is the time to jump on the trend.
Brainstorm. Think of the type of content you would normally post in your feed and see if there’s a way you can create it into a Reel instead.
From personal experience on my blog Instagram, @lifewithhuddyandharry, I have gained over 1,000+ organic followers in a little over two weeks. That’s how much exposure and reach potential Instagram is placing on Reels.
Still unsure? Send me an email to schedule a free consultation to discuss how Instagram Reels and other social platforms can work for you!
