Social media remains an essential way for businesses to connect with their customers.
With the continuous development of staying relevant, Instagram Reels has emerged to compete with the popularity of TikTok.
So what is it and how is it different from TikTok or Instagram Stories?
In this column, we’ll look at how Instagram Reels work, check out examples of brands using them right, and share tips to help you get the most out of Reels, too.
What are Instagram Reels?
Instagram Reels is a feature similar to other social media options that allows users to create short videos to attract their target audience.
In Reels, you can edit videos and stitch them together to create entertaining videos using uploaded content, filters, text, audio, and editing tools.
Instagram Reels have gained popularity with the “Remix this Reel” option that allows users to record their own video next to another user’s video.
This has created trending moments and encouraged collaboration and sharing with a community of followers.
Unlike Instagram Stories, Reels will not disappear within 24 hours.
They also follow an algorithm to appeal to the interests of the users.
Instagram recommends users view popular reels, similar to the “TikTok for You” page shown on a competitor’s app.
This boosts engagement as users can easily access and discover your videos, helping you grow your following organically and creating a domino effect to improve your brand ranking.
How can it benefit your business?
Let’s take a look at ways brands can use Instagram Reels to increase engagement and exposure through their social media presence.
Take advantage of trends to attract your target audience
A few minutes perusing Instagram Reels will quickly reveal ongoing trends among users.
These can be audio clips, remixed videos, or signature tracks that play in the background.
Jumping on the train of trends on your video can help you get more views and allow your team to include your message or products in content that is already popular with users.
Create original content
To attract your target audience, find a balance between appearing as a professionally sponsored video and appearing as an advertisement.
Authentic content is key to the engagement that draws users to platforms like Instagram in the first place.
While conveying your message and targeting potential buyers is important, creating interest in your product and building a following is also worthwhile.
Consider highlighting customer and employee experiences in these short videos.
Shoppers are more aware than ever of the brands they support.
Highlighting your commitment to sustainability, social justice, and the environment can increase customer loyalty.
Social media helps tell potential customers about the brand in return for what it has to offer.
Link creation is also key to effective reels.
Consider this Reel from Hasbro It highlights children unlocking a new game.
A short video clip showing the process of unpacking, followed by a montage of clips of children enjoying the product.
Combined with a tagline and CTA for parents, this is an effective advertisement that doesn’t feel like a commercial.
It looks more like a PSA.
See how happy these kids are?
Here’s how you can get the same experience in your own home.
Besides original content from users of the product, behind-the-scenes reels are also popular.
People are naturally drawn to videos that present an exclusive look to content that the average customer wouldn’t see.
puma It provides access to the Puma Vault in its reels, which reveal previously unseen products.
Slideshows, sparking interest, and looking at a range of products, these videos have garnered nearly 23,000 views.
Balance entertainment and education
Most Instagram users scroll through the app to entertain themselves, not necessarily to shop or hunt for deals.
Companies need to think about who is making the pass and their motives.
Creating entertaining reels is important for getting views and increasing brand exposure.
Reels has also been a great place to educate users.
Consider your niche and the products your brand offers.
Are there opportunities for further education about the products, their use, how to care for them, etc.?
Tutorials can be particularly engaging on this short video platform.
Home Depot He presents reels with tips and easy DIY projects that they put together using Instagram Reels.
This example of how to update a shower has nearly 53,000 views.
Notable products and new releases
Using Instagram Reels to promote products can benefit brands as they create short, engaging content that highlights new releases.
Debuting new products can create a more realistic ad without making viewers feel targeted by an ad.
following Roller from Dyson Highlights a new product with a brief video showing how to use it with descriptions through text.
The description encourages viewers to follow the brand and provides brief details about the product.
It’s short and simple, and with over 73,000 views, it’s an effective way to get your products in front of customers.
Uncover offers/promotions/upcoming events
Reels can also communicate offers and promotions available for your brand.
This can be especially profitable during seasonal sales, encouraging potential buyers to shop after seeing your post.
Sephora A short and simple video presentation showcasing the lip gloss with the “Buy Two Get One Free” promotion.
It’s short, by far, and has been viewed over 200,000 times.
With this live advertisement, the viewers don’t feel like they are watching an advertisement.
Instead, they feel like they’re learning more about a product with a bargain warning when they read the tagline.
It is not displayed as an advertisement which is reflected in the number of views.
Final thoughts
As with any social media campaign, finding your comfort level when creating content takes time.
Incorporating Reels into your advertising plan is a no-brainer, especially for businesses with an Instagram following.
Short videos are a great way to achieve maximum impact because you can tailor them to your brand goals.
With the built-in editing tools and how to use Instagram tutorials, brands can easily create and share content to reach the thousands who are already surfing the platform.
More resources:
- 4 ways to find the best Instagram influencers for your business
- 7 tips for more engagement, and better performance in your Instagram Carousel posts
- Social Media Marketing: A Complete Strategy Guide
Featured image: Roman Samborski/Shutterstock
