Reels is a short-form video feature available on Instagram that allows users to create, edit and upload content to the platform. Since its launch, Instagram Reels has been a strong competitor for other short-form video apps such as TikTok. According to Sensor Tower, Instagram is currently among the top five most downloaded apps across the App Store and Google Play.
The influx of downloads make Instagram a go-to destination for brands and content creators to build user engagement and reach their target audience. So – what are the best practices to follow on Instagram Reels? We’ve curated 5 best practices for you:
Develop A Storyboard
A Storyboard is a visual plan to help outline your reel content. It is vital to map out how you will be directing your video content for users to better understand what the video aims to spotlight in the Instagram Reel.
Stay Up To Date With Viral Trends
Joining in on a viral Instagram reel trend can go a long way in building your audience. An innovative reel challenge not only grasps the attention of users but also instills a sense of curiosity for the other content in your account profile. Moreover, you can also add in viral hashtags and music to reach a wider audience.
Remove Watermark
Instagram avoids featuring recycled or watermarked content from other social media apps such as TikTok. To ensure your content is recommended to users, don’t forget to post high quality and original content on your Instagram account!
Add A Reel Thumbnail
Creating a custom reel cover is key to captivating your audience. The reel cover is the first image that Instagram users view so make sure your Reel cover captures their attention. To add a reel cover, follow these steps:
- After creating your Instagram reel, tap on ‘Cover’ under the ‘Share’ tab
- Click on ‘+ Add from Gallery‘ to select the image for the reel cover
Analyse Instagram Reel Insights
After uploading an Instagram Reel, it is important to analyse how users interact with your content. Instagram provides Business and Creator accounts with Instagram Insights to help you analyse the account’s performance metrics such as Plays, Accounts Reached, Likes, Comments, Saves, and Shares. The Instagram Insights is available under your account profile tab as “Insights.”