There's no doubt that Instagram is one of the most popular social media platforms out there. With over a billion monthly active users, it's a great place for brands to reach a large audience. With the recent addition of Instagram Reels, brands now have another way to engage with their followers and boost their reach.
Instagram Reels: A Quick Definition
Instagram Reels are short, fun videos that can be up to 15 seconds long. They're perfect for sharing quick tips, tutorials, behind-the-scenes footage, or just about anything else you can think of. And, because they're so easy to consume, they're a great way to get your brand in front of more people.
Not only do reels for Instagram help you boost your reach, but they also help you boost your engagement. In fact, according to a study from BuzzSumo, brands that use Instagram Reels see a significant increase in engagement.
Uncovering The Story Behind Instagram Reels
It all started with TikTok. The way audiences consume content on TikTok is very different from how they consume content on other social media platforms. People are looking for quick, entertaining videos they can watch in just a few seconds.
Instagram saw the success that TikTok was having and decided to create a similar feature within their own app. And so, Instagram Reels were born.
Since their launch in August 2020, Instagram Reels have quickly become one of the most popular features on the platform. In just a few short months, they've been used by millions of people around the world and have generated billions of views.
With such a large user base, it's no wonder that brands were quick to jump on board. TikTok offers an excellent way for brands to reach a new audience and engage with them in a fun and creative way, and Instagram couldn't miss all of that potential.
According to Emplifi data, by Q2 2022 almost half of all brands on Instagram will have published at least one Reel. The format has seen a massive surge in popularity over the past year, and is now the most popular content type in the Sports sector, with more than 60% of users sharing Reels. However, other industries are not far behind.
How to Use Instagram Reels for Your Brand
Let's look at how you can use reels on Instagram for your brand.
1. Share Quick Tips and Tutorials
If you have quick tips or tutorials that would be helpful for your followers, Instagram Reels is a great way to share them. Not only will you be providing value to your followers, but you'll also be increasing your reach and engagement.
2. Give a Behind-the-Scenes Look
People love seeing behind-the-scenes content. It gives them a chance to see what goes into making your products or services and makes them feel more connected to your brand. So, if you have any behind-the-scenes footage that you think would be interesting for your followers, be sure to share it on Instagram Reels.
3. Share User-Generated Content
User-generated content is a great way to increase reach and engagement. And, when you share it on Instagram Reels, you'll be able to reach even more people. If you believe any user-generated content would boost your brand, don't hesitate to share it.
4. Run a Contest or Giveaway
Contests and giveaways are always a great way to increase engagement and reach. Do you have an idea for a contest or giveaway that would be perfect for Instagram Reels? Be sure to go for it!
5. Share Exclusive Deals and Discounts
Instagram Reels is the way to go if you have any exclusive deals or discounts you want to share with your followers. This will help increase your reach and engagement while also providing value to your followers.
6. Announce New Products or Services
If you have any new products or services that you want to announce, Instagram Reels offers the perfect platform. Are you ready to get people excited about your latest offerings?
7. Share Your Brand’s Story
Your brand story is a great way to connect with your followers and increase your reach and engagement. If you haven’t already, share your brand story on Instagram Reels. Imagine you are the customer and ask yourself what would be interesting or valuable for you to know!
8. Promote Your Other Social Media Channels
If you have other social media channels you want to promote, Instagram Reels can be the perfect avenue. You can mention your other channels in your Reels captions and even include links to them.
9. Give a Shoutout to Other Brands or Influencers
Thinking about a possible collaboration with other brands or influencers? A great way to start is by giving them a shoutout in your Instagram Reels. This is a fantastic medium to get their attention and help you reach a new audience.
10. Share Your Favorite Reels
If you come across any Instagram Reels that you really enjoy, be sure to share them! This is a great way to show your support for other creators, and build a buzz around your community and brand
As you can see, there are many different ways you can use Instagram Reels for your brand. If you’re looking for a way to increase your reach and engagement, be sure to give them a try!
Tips for Creating Engaging Instagram Reels
Now that you know a little bit more about Instagram Reels, let's take a look at some tips for creating engaging content.
1. Keep it short and sweet
As we mentioned before, one of the best things about Instagram Reels is that they're quick and easy to consume. So, when you're creating your content, make sure to keep it short and sweet. No one wants to watch a 15-second video that feels like it's dragging on forever.
2. Be creative
With Instagram Reels, you have a chance to really show off your creativity. So, don't be afraid to experiment with different ideas and formats. You never know what's going to resonate with your audience.
3. Use engaging visuals
Remember, people are visual creatures. So, if you want your Instagram Reels to succeed, you must use engaging visuals. This could mean using creative graphics, colorful images, or even just filming in an exciting location.
4. Use music to set the mood
One of the best ways to engage your viewers is to use music to set the mood. After all, music has a way of evoking emotions and connecting with people on a deeper level. So, if you want your Instagram Reels to be genuinely successful, make sure to include some catchy tunes.
5. Be authentic
Last but not least, it's essential to be authentic. In other words, don't try to be something you're not. People can see through that sort of thing, and it's not going to do you any favors in the long run.
So, there you have it! These are just a few tips to help you create engaging Instagram Reels. If you keep these things in mind, you'll be well on your way to success
