Let’s get REEL! How Instagram Reels Support Your Social Strategy

In a world where we have varying options on how to engage with potential clients, reels open the door to adding your personal flair. From informational how-to videos like how to make your grandma’s top-secret cookie recipe to a silly clip on your opinion of this week’s Bachelor rose ceremony, the possibilities are endless. 

Think of it as a TikTok for your Instagram. As a brand, engaging with customers through this platform builds a relationship and customer base while they learn who you are. Embrace a ‘your vibe attracts your tribe’ mentality. 

Reels keep you relevant and your customers engaged. 

What is a reel? 

An Instagram Reel is a 15 – 30 second short video created by YOU. This is your opportunity to share your secret sauce with the world. It’s a great way to give clients deeper insight into your company and who you are. You can share anything from brand stories to your employees and products, and more!

Instagram released a new Reels Explore Feed that allows you to see content from accounts you follow, along with what’s trending right now. 

Why should I use reels? 

Reels are a fantastic way to gain global exposure. By utilizing this newer Instagram feature, you’re able to reach a broader audience. More than 50% of Instagram users use Explore daily on the app. Each day, 200 million Instagram users visit at least one business profile. 

Additionally, Instagram continues to update its algorithm on a regular basis and is promoting the use of reels above any other content type. Think of the wide net of people you could reach by incorporating reels! 

Instagram Reels vs Instagram Stories

You might be thinking, ‘isn’t this the same thing as the stories I post on my Instagram anyway?’ Close, but not quite. Reels give greater opportunities for creativity and collaboration. 

Instagram stories disappear after 24 hours unless you add them to your highlight page. Reels on the other hand have a dedicated space on Instagram where they live. They are postable, shareable, and personal.  

How do reels support your marketing strategy? 

At the end of the day, creating reels are a great way to reach more people in a quick audio visual blurb. Reels allow you to build your audience through quick and easy-to-digest content. It’s a new way to collaborate with people who might share or recreate your original concepts. If that’s not enough, look at these ways reels support your marketing strategy. 

• Repost your TikTok videos. There’s nothing like upcycling. 
• Quickly share content that educates your audience on your brand! 
• Share your brand and your services! Talk about your product! 
• Give your audience behind the scenes access. It’s exciting to be privy to all of your hard work! 

How do you make a reel?

Let’s break down the process of making the reel with our Social Media Manager, Caroline LoPresti. To get started, click on the + button on the top right-hand screen of your Instagram home page. Once you’re in, use these creative tools to enhance your video. 

• Audio: Browse thousands of songs in the Instagram music library ranging from what’s trending now to your favorite melody. You can even post original audio. This is where you can choose how long you want your video to be.
• Text: Keep text towards the middle of your video to avoid it getting cut off. Adjust when you would like the text to appear by dragging the portion of the video at the bottom of the screen. Including text is a great way to cultivate inclusivity and accessibility for viewers with disabilities. 
• AR Effects: Utilize Instagram’s computer-generated effects in some of your creations. 
• Timer and Countdown: Need an extra set of hands? Set the timer to record a video hands-free.
• Align: Recording multiple clips or outfit changes? Align will help keep transitions in your reel sleek. 
• Speed: Fast forward or slow down videos and audio to stay with the theme of your creation. 

When you are happy with your video, preview the final draft before clicking done! Choose a screengrab from the reel created, or a photo you already have to keep up with your aesthetic.

To increase your visibility in the Instagram community, don’t forget to include relevant hashtags. Now you’re ready to post! Happy reeling! 

If you are looking for a team of specialists to help you develop your social media strategy, contact our team at Digital Storyteller today! Our unique, in-house team utilizes a holistic approach to assist financial service companies to broaden their reach. We make sure your voice is heard while separating the signal from the noise. Call or email us today!