Instagram Reels: they are hot and happening! This (fairly) new feature of Instagram has been used quite much, and with success. It actually is sort of the copy cat version of TikTok: short format videos which you can find under the reels tab, your feed and explore tab.
Just as with TikTok, you can edit your videos, add music, add texts and GIFs. You can either film a new video from the Instagram Reels editor, or import a video.
There are many do’s and Dont’s for Instagram Reels. Read more on what those are, so you know what to avoid or to use!
Do’s:
Use popular music
First: popular music does not necessarily indicate music from the billboards hot 100. Focus on the music that is popular on Instagram Reels or TikTok. People will recognize the music, and be more tempted to watch your video. However, be careful: if everybody uses a specific song, it can become an overkill!
Participate in trends
Trends: you either hate them or love them. On Instagram Reels, trends circulate as well. Sometimes the trend has to do something with the music, or a combination between music and concept. Just like I mentioned earlier on, be careful. While it can be fun to participate in a trend, you want to avoid posting when the trend has already passed.
BONUS TIP: Trends on TikTok are not always similar to the trends on Instagram Reels. Avoid this mistake! Both platforms have their own culture, and therefore not all trends are adopted from each platform.
Batch create your reels and save them
Creating reels can cost some time. Therefore, it is smart to batch create them all, so you have them ready. Take an hour, write down all your concepts, grab some different outfits, and start creating!
BONUS TIP: Instagram sometimes accidentally deleted your Reel drafts. Therefore, ensure to always save them on your phone, and save the sounds you’ve used on Instagram!
Be creative
Creativity is key! Creativity is a necessity when creating reels. They help you to hold the attention of the viewer. An example on how to implement creativity in your videos is by including transitions. These are short transitions between different clips, which makes your video more attractive to watch.
Dont’s:
Placing your text where it cannot be read.
When you place your text box in your reel, ensure the text is readable. This can be done by placing your text not too close to the borders, and not too far on the bottom. On the bottom, your caption will be displayed. When you place your textbox on the bottom, you cannot read the text as the caption will block the view.
Too much text
Avoid placing too many textboxes. Instead of writing it all down, include a voice-over in combination with displaying some keywords on screen. Remember: if you want to explain a subject in-depth, use IGTV. Keep it simple!
#Copycat
Don’t be a copycat. As mentioned before, creativity is key for Instagram Reels. Therefore, it is not cool when copying a specific concept from someone else. Do you notice a fun reel, but create a different version on it? That’s okay, go for it! Who knows you’ll be at the start of creating a new trend.
TikTok watermark
Instagram recently mentioned that video’s that are posted directly from TikTok (including the watermark) will not be favoured in the Instagram Algorithm. However, this does not mean that you cannot post your video on both platforms. What you could do is save your video ahead of posting, or remove the watermark on one of the many handy websites such as igram.io
Reels that are not related to your business, just to go viral.
I see this happen a lot: business owners that post reels which have nothing to do with their business, just to try to go viral. Of course, it is super fun when your content goes viral. However, if the reel is not related to your business, it has no use. Always try to find a connection to your business. If you go viral by then, it actually is useful!
Are u convinced of the power of Instagram Reels, but struggle on how to integrate it in your Social media strategy? Book a one-on-one power hour, where we can discuss how you can use Instagram Reels.
