Instagram is one of the major pillars in social media marketing, and the shift on the platform to Reels may force business owners to change their tactics. While the colorful app originated as a photo sharing platform, now it appears to be prioritizing videos in its internal algorithms. As of last July, new video posts under 15 minutes will be shared as reels.
Reels are one of Instagram’s most recent innovations, created to compete against the short video form content on TikTok, one of the fastest growing social media platforms in the last five years. Reels, which now have a central tab on Instagram linking to an algorithmic feed, contain trackable audios, are customizable with text and filters, and work with hashtags. Like Tiktok, Reels can be comprised of a series of clips put together.
Sound confusing? It’s a lot to take in.
Luckily, your Pearl Marketing professionals have been testing out strategies to help our audience navigate this new direction and retain their digital followers.
1). Start Off Slow
There is no need to become an expert overnight. Using either your business or personal account, test out the Reels feature on your app. Several tutorials can be found via Youtube. Draft or delete your first attempts – practice makes perfect!
2). Take Time to Explore
As mentioned before, Instagram now has a central tab for your to peruse reels based on the content appearing in your Explore page. Soak in how other creators produce and caption their videos. Take note of any calls to action.
3). Save the Audios that Make You Smile
In order to make your videos genuine, lean into your natural creativity and save audios that you like listening to or find particularly humorous.
4). Write Down any Ideas
Instagram Reels are all about entertainment and information. Take a pad of paper and record concepts for your videos. Perhaps a tour of your office or workspace? A Q-and-A about your business or brand? Fun facts to pair with a popular audio?
5). Draft and Caption with Hashtags.
Take a morning or afternoon to clear a space, set up your phone, and start recording. We recommend starting with simple, one-clip ideas before moving to more complicated ones. Remember, you’re still getting the hang of it!. Make your captions pithy and tag the videos with the audiences you want to attract. If it’s a hairstyling tutorial, then you would include #hairstyling.
6.) Post One a Day
Experts agree that one Reel a day is definitely enough to prompt more viewers to your Instagram profile. It’s important to note that if your account is labeled as Instagram business, then certain audios may be under copyright and you may have to find less catchy substitutes.
7). Track Metrics
By using your insights and switching to the videos tab on your profile, you will be able to see how many accounts your content has reached, as well as the number of plays.
Would you be interested in consulting with a social media expert? Call our agency at 603-732-9070 to schedule a meeting with a Pearl Professional who can answer your questions.
