There’s no getting away from it, Instagram Reels are here to stay. But as a small business, why should you be using them as part of your overall social media strategy? Let me explain…
….but first up you might be asking what is an Instagram Reel?
An Instagram Reel is JUST A SHORT VIDEO.
And these short, entertaining/educational videos can have a unique way of grabbing users’ attention. Which, if done well, can mean lots of engagement for your business – which is what we all want!
These videos can be created by using:
- Moving images – i.e videos!
- Static images
- Lip syncs
- Special effects
- Green screen
- Transitions
- And so many more…
You can create your videos in the Instagram app which allows you to choose from an extensive library of music, sound and special effects.
What’s even better is that Instagram has introduced a new TEMPLATE feature which allows you to upload your images or video to a template and voila, you have a super duper Reel! This feature also helps to keep all of your Reels on brand, without having to painstakingly perfect every detail each time you want to upload a Reel.
Since Reels debuted a few years ago, they’ve become the platform’s fastest-growing feature. Although Instagram has realised that people love Instagram being a photo-first platform, Reels are still MASSIVE and won’t be going anywhere!
So why should you be using Reels as part of your overall Social Media Strategy?
1. Spread your message far and wide
Instagram Reels are shared to your followers’ feeds as well as displayed on the Explore page. This means they’re a great way to reach new audiences and gain more visibility for your brand.
Reels also live permanently in your Reels library, and you have the option to save them to your grid too, meaning more eyes on the prize.
Instagram Reels have so much more presence than Stories, which unless saved in your highlights disappear after 24 hours.
Plus, I’ve known Reels to get love weeks after they’ve been posted which doesn’t often happen with grid posts.
2. You can make them in no time!
Reels are short, typically 15-30 seconds long, which makes them perfect for capturing attention quickly and keeping viewers engaged.
This is particularly important in a world where attention spans are getting shorter and shorter.
Plus, it means if you’re a busy small business owner, you can fit them into your working day.
However, that does mean that you must stop over thinking when making them and just bloody post them!!
3. Stand out from your competitors
Reels offer a range of creative tools, such as music, text, and effects. This allows you to create fun and engaging content that is visually appealing and stands out from the crowd.
Reels can give you the opportunity to show your personality and have fun.
4. They can allow you to jump on to trends
Although I don’t recommend this as part of your Reels strategy, I do love a Reels trend every now and again.
A video trend can be a piece of music, a voice-over, a special effect or dance that your video centres around.
These can be popular and can help you stay on-trend and relevant in your industry.
Definitely worth a go if it fits your business or niche.
5. Show off your brand (and yourself)
Reels can be a great way to showcase your brand’s personality and values in an authentic and engaging way.
By sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses, showcasing your team, or creating fun and relatable content, you can build a deeper connection with your audience and increase brand loyalty.
As I always say, PEOPLE BUY FROM PEOPLE and the more that people get to know you, the more likely they will buy from you.
Overall, Instagram Reels can be a valuable tool for any social media strategy, providing a fun and engaging way to connect with your audience and reach new potential customers.
So what are you waiting for? Why not make an Instagram Reel today?
Why not let me be your social media wing woman and let’s get those Instagram Reels nailed and we’ll get you Always Being Social. Just send me an email at jo@alwaysbeingsocial.co.uk, or book a free discovery call via my Calendly link
