Definition:
Reels are an Instagram feature that allows users to create and edit short videos, up to 60 seconds, directly from the application. This tool provides the ability to add filters, effects and music to enrich the content. The videos created can be published in the feed, in stories or in the specific Reels section. Available in more than 50 countries, Reels offer users a dynamic platform to share creative moments and connect with a wider audience.
How Instagram Reels work
Instagram Reels is a feature built into the Instagram app, accessible from the home page. It is identified by a clapperboard icon in the upper left corner. In addition, all profiles that create this type of content have a dedicated tab with the same icon. Users can interact with Reels in the same way as with other posts, through comments, likes or sharing them. Unlike traditional videos on Instagram, Reels have a vertical format and are presented in their own tab on the profile, while standard videos are square in format and appear in the feed grid.
How to use Reels in your marketing strategy
Reels are gaining importance in marketing strategies due to their visual format, which is increasingly preferred by consumers. Reasons include:
- Closeness: Reels offer a more personal connection with the audience.
- Entertainment: They tend to be more attractive and keep people interested.
- Retention: The visual format improves the audience’s ability to retain, which helps brand recall.
- Creativity: They offer multiple creative possibilities for content creators.
Reels impact users based on their interests, making them less intrusive and more engaging. This is advantageous for companies, as they not only reach their current followers, but also potential followers with similar interests. In other words, Reels make it easier to reach a new audience and gain valuable insights.
Tips for creating effective Reels
To maximize the impact of Reels in marketing strategies, it is important to adopt certain practices that can improve the quality and reach of content. Here are some key tips for creating engaging and effective Reels:
- Create educational content: Offer valuable information on topics related to the brand, beyond selling a product.
- Join the trends: Participate in popular audios or challenges, creating creative and fun videos. Reels are ideal to show the more relaxed and fun side of the company.
- Give visibility to the team: Show a “behind the scenes” to show how the company works, who is part of it and share funny anecdotes. This reinforces the image of a human and accessible environment.
- Use relevant hashtags: Add popular and specific hashtags to increase the visibility of Reels and attract a wider audience interested in those topics.
- Include calls to action: Motivate viewers to interact with the content, either by leaving a comment, sharing the video or visiting the profile for more information.
- Collaborate with influencers: Work with industry influencers to expand the reach and credibility of content. Collaborations can attract followers from other profiles interested in the brand.
- Measure and analyze performance: use Instagram’s analytics tools to evaluate the success of Reels, identifying which types of content work best and adjusting strategy accordingly.