Social media continues to evolve rapidly, and Instagram Reels remain a powerful tool for brands to engage with their audience. Originally launched in 2020, Reels have since become a key feature on Instagram, offering a fun and creative way to share short video content.
Here’s how you can effectively leverage Instagram Reels to promote your brand and reach new audiences in 2024…
- Keep it short and sweet
- Leverage trends and challenges
- Use music, subtitles and transitions
- Tell a story
- Promote products and services
What are Instagram Reels?
Most of you will be familiar with what Instagram Reels are, but if you’re not they are short, engaging videos that can range from 3 seconds to 15 minutes long. However, the most high-performing Reels are between 7 to 15 seconds long. They allow you to create and share entertaining content using a variety of creative tools, such as music, filters, and effects. Reels appear in a dedicated section on the Explore page, making it easier for users to discover your content beyond your followers.
Why use Instagram Reels for your brand?
Increase reach and engagement: As mentioned, Reels are prominently featured on Instagram, making them more likely to be discovered by users who don’t follow your account.
Showcase creativity: Instagram reels allow you to showcase your brand’s personality and creativity in a concise and visually appealing format.
Stay relevant: As video content continues to dominate social media, Reels keep your brand current and engaging.
5 tips for using Instagram Reels effectively
With 4 years of figuring out the Reels algorithm and understanding the patterns that ensure a Reel is successful, here’s some of our top tips on how to use Instagram Reels…
- Keep it short and sweet
In 2024, attention spans are shorter than ever. Aim to capture your audience’s attention within the first few seconds and keep your Reels concise and impactful. We also recommend posting early in the day as, accounts benefit from less competition, while also tapping into traffic from users during their first scroll of the day – even if that’s a few hours after the post was shared.
- Leverage trends and challenges
Stay updated with popular trends, memes, and challenges on Instagram. Incorporating these into your Reels can boost visibility and engagement. We recommend taking a multi-channel approach with your footage too, promote your reels on TikTok, Facebook and X to reach different audiences and cover a wider basis of people, trends and challenges.
- Use music, subtitles and transitions
Choose catchy music and utilise Instagram’s wide range of effects, on-screen subtitles and filters to make your Reels visually appealing, entertaining and accessible.
Note: Not only are subtitles great for the 69% of people who watch without sound, but they keep your content accessible for those with hearing difficulties.
- Tell a story
Create narratives or share behind-the-scenes glimpses of your brand to connect with your audience on a personal level. Another great way to engage with your audience personally is by getting in front of the camera yourself, and putting a face to your brand that your audience can relate to.
- Promote products and services
Showcase your products or services creatively within your Reels, but ensure the content is engaging and not overly promotional. Ensure you add shoppable and direct links to your Reels, including a clear CTA, making sales and conversions easier.
We can help your Reels stand out
Instagram Reels offer brands an exciting opportunity to connect with their audience through engaging video content. By embracing creativity, staying informed about trends, and consistently sharing compelling Reels, you can effectively promote your brand and captivate new audiences in the digital landscape.
Not sure where to start? Get in touch with us for expert support with all things social media.
FAQs
- How can Instagram Reels help promote my brand?
Instagram Reels can help promote your brand by increasing reach and engagement, showcasing creativity, and keeping your brand relevant in the realm of video content.
- What types of content work best for Instagram Reels?
Content that works best for Reels includes quick tutorials, behind-the-scenes looks, product showcases, and fun challenges or trends relevant to your audience.
- How often should I post Instagram Reels?
Consistency is key. Aim to post Reels regularly, whether it’s a few times a week or daily, to maintain visibility and engagement with your audience.
