How to Take Advantage of Instagram Reels
By Krista Turkel | March 7, 2023
Instagram is constantly evolving, adding new features and removing old ones. But there is one thing for certain. Instagram Reels are here to stay. And not only that, but they’ve been the most popular feature on the app for two years running.
Instagram Reels get about 3-4x more views than a regular feed post. So if you’re not already taking advantage of this feature, it’s time to hop on board.
Here are a few of my favorite tips to help your brand get noticed and potentially go viral on the popular social media channel.
Catch their attention in 3 seconds. Although Instagram allows for Reels to be up to 15 minutes, the average person will only watch your video for 3-10 seconds unless you’re able to catch their attention. If you’re unable to hook them in that short time span, they’ve likely moved on to the next video. Make sure your content is telling a story. Try a listicle! Reels like “5 Places in NYC you MUST visit!” are catchy and reel your audience in.
Push your Reel to your Feed. Your Reel will not deliver to your followers if you do not post your Reel to your feed. Instagram uses the initial engagement from your followers to decide whether or not to deliver your content to non-followers. If you choose only to have that content live in your Reels tab, wait at least a week or so before removing it, just to be safe.
Remove Watermarks. The Instagram algorithm can detect if your video has a watermark (ex: if you pull a video from TikTok to repost). Try using a website that will allow you to download your posted TikToks without it, like SnapTik.
Use Trending Sounds and Music. When creating your Reel, check out what songs are popular and going viral on Instagram. This can help increase discoverability and reach an increased audience.
Make Sure Your Video is High-Quality and Sized Appropriately. Check the lighting, wipe your camera lens, and prepare to capture high-quality content! Consider buying a ring light if you’re shooting inside often, and check the aesthetics in your background. Oh, and don’t forget to shoot vertically! Instagram Reels should be 1080 x 1920 pixels.
Optimize On-Screen Text Placement. Ensure all of your text fits within a 4:5 viewing aspect ratio. When creating your Reel within the Instagram App, line guides will automatically pop up if you go too far outside the appropriate borders.
Include Closed Captions. Did you know that 80% of viewers are more likely to watch a complete video when captions are available? (Forbes) Instagram now offers the ability to add closed captions to your video with just a tap of a button. Try out this feature and measure the difference in your reach!
Enable Interactions. Let your audience get social with you! By enabling your followers to duet your content, you increase the chance of discovery and reach. Try adding a call to action at the end of your video and watch the engagement pour in!
Be Consistent. One of the best things you can do is post as frequently as possible. If you can, try once a day or every other day. This will help ensure your content is viewed by as many people as possible, increasing your chance of being featured on the Explore page. Even if your content doesn’t automatically garner thousands of views on the first day of posting, it doesn’t mean it won’t in the future! That’s the beauty of this type of content! Instagram will continue to deliver Reels to your followers and non-followers days and weeks after posting. So be patient!
Share Your Reels to Your Story. This will help ensure your loyal followers will see your content!