How to Create Instagram Reels that Engage Your Audience

With the huge popularity of Instagram Reels and TikTok, short form video content continues to reign supreme in the world of social media marketing.

Instagram reels aren’t just a place to share viral dances and cooking videos, they are also the perfect opportunity for brands to reach new audiences and grow their online following and engagement. If you haven’t been using this feature as part of your social media strategy yet, consider this your sign to start.

In this article, we’ll take a look at why social media is such an important part of your digital marketing strategy and how you can utilise different platforms for the best results.

If you’ve used Instagram in the past year, it’s likely that you’ve seen Instagram Reels cropping up everywhere, from Instagram Stories and your feed, to the dedicated Reels tab.

Instagram Reels is an in-app feature that allows users to create short video clips that are up to 60 seconds long and usually contain some audio or visual effects. These videos tend to have a more laid-back attitude similar to Instagram Stories, but users can comment, like and share Reels like they do on in-feed posts.

Users can watch unlimited Instagram Reels by scrolling through the ‘Reels’ tab, the same way that you can watch TikTok videos on the ‘For You’ page.

1. You can show a different side to your brand 

It can be hard to connect with audiences through standard posts, and that might make you feel like your social media strategy isn’t paying off. The short and snappy format of Instagram Reels provides plenty of opportunities for you to get creative and show a different side of your brand that you might not show on your grid.

The feature’s video aspect is also a great social media marketing strategy, as you can interact in a more ‘human’ way than a mere picture post!  For example, you could show behind-the-scenes glimpses of you and your brand, as well as joining in with fun viral trends to show the more lighthearted side of your business.

2. Increased Reach 

Instagram Reels are undoubtedly the best place to be on Instagram when it comes to organic reach, making them a no-brainer for your Instagram growth strategy.

Unlike traditional Instagram grid posts, which only appear in the feeds of your followers, Reels are shown to all Instagram users, opening your brand up to an almost limitless audience.

Instagram Reels make it easy for people to follow your page if they like your content, by adding a ‘follow’ button right next to your user name.

The effectiveness of Instagram Reels for not just reach but also engagement was demonstrated in a recent study, where major sports teams saw a 67% increase in engagement when using Reels.

But although Instagram Reels provide better reach than your standard grid posts, you shouldn’t abandon your feed altogether; it’s important that any new potential customers who find your page through Reels stay engaged with your brand once they visit your page. Remember that Instagram Reels should be a part of your wider Instagram strategy and not seem like they have been created by a totally different brand.

3. Video is the future 

When it comes to digital marketing in 2022, video is undoubtedly where the focus is.

As of 2022, the average person is spending 100 minutes a day watching video content. It makes sense that social media marketing is more focused on video, as video content now gets far more engagement on Instagram versus photos, and consumers are more likely to purchase after viewing branded social videos compared to other forms of content.

It’s no wonder, then, that the head of Instagram Adama Mosseri announced in 2021 that Instagram is ‘no longer a photo sharing app.’ With video content set to take over, you should start integrating video content such as Reels into your social media strategy if you aren’t already, or risk falling behind the curve.

Although Instagram Reels definitely offer more opportunities for engagement, simply posting doesn’t necessarily equal engagement. Some of the best ways to ensure engagement with your Reels is by posting content that is shareable, helpful and most importantly, entertaining.

Here are some of our top tips on how to create Instagram Reels that your audiences will love:

1. Create educational content 

You can never go wrong by sharing educational content that adds value to your audience. For example, you could share how-to content and tips and tricks related to your brand that will benefit your audience; this could be anything from skincare tips to tips on securing a mortgage, depending on your business. You can also share more information in the caption, or direct viewers to your page for more information.

2. Use trends for inspiration 

Reels are similar to TikTok, and, like TikTok, jumping on a trend can be a great way to go viral. Take a few minutes to scroll through the Instagram Reels tab each day and see if you can spot any recurring themes in content, such as a particular song or audio that pops up again and again.

By applying your brand to an existing trend it shows that your brand understands your audience and their sense of humour or values, but just make sure not to jump on a trend when it is already dying down, or risk looking out of touch.

3. Showcase your products 

The short-form video concept of Instagram Reels make them a perfect vehicle to show off your products in action. You could use Reels to do product demonstrations or share stories from your customers – anything that gives your audience an opportunity to look behind the scenes or try before they buy will create interest and drive more people to your page.

4. Use hashtags 

You might think that hashtags aren’t useful on Instagram anymore, but thanks to TikTok and Instagram reels, hashtags are having a resurgence. By including hashtags in your Instagram Reels, you will make your Reels easier to find by users searching for videos that relate to that particular hashtag.

5. Speak to the experts 

If you’re looking to nail your social media marketing this year, we can help. Our team of social media experts have worked with hundreds of companies to help grow their presence online and create a social marketing media strategy that works for them.

Our expert team will help you to navigate the ever changing world of social media marketing, and assist with everything from social media strategy to content creation and social media management.

Visit our website to learn more about our social media management services, and get in touch today.