Instagram Reels

What are Instagram Reels? 

Instagram Reels is a feature within the popular social media platform, Instagram, that allows users to create and share short, engaging videos.

Launched in August 2020 as a response to the rising popularity of short-form video content platforms like TikTok, Reels offers individuals and brands a new way to express creativity and connect with their audience.

With the ability to add music, various effects, and creative tools to 15-second videos, Reels has quickly become a favorite for storytelling, showcasing talents, and engaging with a broader community on Instagram.

How to use Instagram Reels 

Instagram Reels is easy to use because the feature is fully embedded in the Instagram app. Follow these simple steps to start creating your own Reels:

1. Open the Instagram app on your mobile device.
2. Tap on the camera icon in the top left corner or swipe right from your feed to access the camera.
3. At the bottom of the screen, you will see different options such as Post, Live, Story, and Reels. Click on "Reels."
4. Use the creative tools on the left side of the screen to add music, effects, stickers, and/or filters to your video.
5. On the right side of the screen, you will see a timer and an option to adjust the speed of your video. These features can help you create smooth transitions and engaging content.
6. When you're ready to start recording, press and hold the capture button in the center of your screen.
7. You can record multiple clips for your Reels by releasing and pressing the capture button again. This is helpful for adding variety to your video.
8. Once you're satisfied with your video, click on the arrow icon at the bottom right corner to move onto the next step.
9. Add a caption, hashtags, and location (optional) to your Reels post.
10. Tap on the "Share" button to publish your Reels to your profile or choose to send it as a direct message to specific users.
11. Your Reels will appear on your profile under the dedicated "Reels" tab and can be shared in your feed as well.

Keep in mind that you can use the native editing tool for your Reels -- but you can also use other, more creative editing tools (and then upload the Reel as you normally would.) There's an entire suite of editing tools you can use, like CapCut, InShot, Adobe Premiere Rush, and more.

What you need to know about the Instagram Reels algorithm

Although we don't know the exact way the Instagram algorithm works, there are some key factors that can help increase the visibility of your Reels. These tips will help the algo push your Reels to relevant audiences, so you can get the right kind of attention.

• Video length: Keep in mind that Reels have a maximum length of 15 seconds, so make sure your content is engaging and concise.
• Use trending songs and hashtags: Instagram is more likely to recommend and feature Reels with popular music and hashtags.
• Post consistently: Similar to other social media platforms, posting consistently can help you stay relevant and increase your chances of being featured. If you want to, you can also schedule content in advance (using social media management tools, like you would with any other type of social media content.)
• Engage with other Reels: The more you engage with other users' content, the more likely your Reels will appear in their feeds.
• Engage your audience through comments: People love seeing there are other humans on the other end of the communication. If you just post Instagram Reels and ghost everyone, you might not get the traction you're hoping for.
• Quality over quantity: Even though it's important to post consistently, the quality of your Reels is still crucial. Make sure your videos are well-edited, visually appealing, and provide value to your audience. More than anything, make sure you invest in creative content -- the best, most viral content for Reels is that which makes people feel something, whether that's entertaining content or educational content.)
• Use hashtags in the caption: Including relevant hashtags in your caption can help make your Reels more discoverable to users who are searching for specific content. To uncover effective hashtags, make sure to do your research on the platform and see what's trending -- doing this will help you get your Reels in front of everyday people interested in your specific industry or niche.
• Embed user-generated content in your calendar: This content format might not work for all types of business, but it can be a goldmine for DTC/ eCommerce businesses that want to gain their target audience's trust.)
• Measure and adjust: There are a lot of Analytics tools and metrics you can use to measure the performance of your Reels (and adjust accordingly.) Even using Instagram Insights (the native Instagram Reels analytics tool) can help a lot.

How Instagram Reels benefits businesses and influencers 

Instagram Reels offers many opportunities for businesses and influencers looking to expand their reach and connect with their audience in new ways:

• Increased visibility: With the potential to be featured on the Explore page, Reels can help businesses and influencers reach a wider audience beyond their followers.
• Opportunity for creativity and storytelling: Instagram Reels allows businesses and influencers to showcase their brand personality, products, or services in a fun and engaging way. This type of content can help strengthen the connection with their audience and attract new followers.
• Ability to collaborate with other users: Reels also offer the opportunity for collaborations with other businesses or influencers. By featuring each other's content, both parties can benefit from increased visibility and potential growth in followers.
• Potential for virality: With the rise of TikTok challenges and trends, Instagram Reels has the potential to go viral and bring widespread attention to businesses and influencers.
• Integration with other Instagram features: By using Reels in conjunction with other Instagram features such as Instagram Stories, Live, and IGTV, businesses and influencers can create a well-rounded content strategy that caters to different types of audiences.

Overall, Instagram Reels provides a valuable platform for businesses and influencers to showcase their brand and connect with a wider audience. With its rising popularity, individuals and brands need to explore this feature and take advantage of the opportunities it offers. So, if you haven't already, give Reels a try and see how it can benefit your social media presence!