Let’s Talk Reels
If it wasn’t clear already, Instagram - and most users - are pushing you to create Reels. HEAVILY. So much so that regular Instagram video content has been reformatted to Reels. Why are they so popular, and how can businesses use Reels to their advantage without being overwhelmed with filming video?
If you’ve been living under a rock, TikTok hit the scene in 2016. Originally developed by Chinese technology company ByteDance, TikTok is now available in over 150 countries with over 1 billion users. The short, easily digestible video format and extremely reliable algorithm not only has users scrolling for hours - it’s made reaching audiences easier for creators, too.
So where do Reels come in? While we were all sitting inside in the original pandemic lockdown of 2020, Instagram launched Reels in an effort to bring users back to the platform. Many creators were complaining about Instagram’s ever-changing algorithm and how difficult it was to get in front of their desired audience. Not only did Reels pose another opportunity for creators to, well, create; it also offered an easier way to get views.
So how can businesses ensure they’re doing everything right when creating Reels?
Use Trending Audio. When choosing the music for your Reel, be sure to use top trending audio to get in front of more people. Make sure it’s relevant, though - if the audio says, “Show me a picture of your dog,” you probably shouldn’t tack on a video that doesn’t show a dog.
Include In-App Text. Instagram gives you what you need in Reels to create an edited video. Add text when you’re editing your Reel, not outside of it. You can set the duration and speech-to-text as well. Make sure your text falls in the preview section in case viewers are watching from their timelines - it can get cut off. Don’t forget closed captioning if you’re speaking in the video!
Avoid the TikTok watermark. Instagram caught up to us. Make sure your video doesn’t include the TikTok watermark when posting to Reels. The platform recognizes it. In fact, there’s an app for that: it’s called SnapTik. Have the opposite problem? Remove Instagram Reels watermarks using SnapInsta.
Hop on Trends Quickly. Don’t wait for trends, audios, or hashtags to have hundreds of thousands of views for you to get lost in. Hop on trends early, when they aren’t as popular. It’s a lot easier to blow up when you’re a trendsetter.
Share Reels to Your Instagram Story. What sits at the top of every user’s timeline, gets more views than a feed post, and isn’t going anywhere anytime soon? Instagram Stories. Utilize this highly engaging tool to share your Reels and get in front of more people.
Ready to partner with a social media team that understands Reels? Contact the ALLIANA Agency to get started!
