BY MONICA NIETO

With over 1 billion monthly active users, the Instagram platform has proven itself a force to be reckoned with. As one of the top ranking social platforms behind Facebook, Youtube, and others, Instagram is constantly updating their product to ensure their users have a quality experience. As the 10th most visited site in the US with over 63% of its US users logging in daily, Instagram has made a huge impact on the digital era.

Instagram not only caters to the needs of their consumers but also pays close attention to trends, tools, and features that can be found on other social media sites. 

For instance, in 2016, Instagram created a tool that would change their platform exponentially. The well-known shop feature has allowed for business to capitalize on consumer dollars without them having to leave the app. This feature made a big impact on businesses, content creators and Instagram itself. 

Now, the newest feature on Instagram is called “Reels''. And let’s just say this new tool is extremely beneficial to businesses and average users.

Let's first discuss what it is.

What are Instagram Reels?

Reels are 3 to 30-second videos that can be filled with anything like text, video, pictures, music, GIFs, stickers, sound effects, etc. The diversity of functions allows each consumer to utilize their creativity in their own way. Reels come with similar tools and characteristics that are seen on Tik Tok.

Reels can be posted on your main feed, story or kept in their own tab. You can view, like, comment, save or share the Reels. Like pictures or videos, Reels from public accounts can be included in the algorithm for the user's explore page which helps drive engagement, traffic, likes and follows. Also, since Reels immediately play once the user clicks on their explore page, you grab their attention immediately. 

Similar to Tik Tok, Reels are great to connect with others, grow your content, advertise for your business, and show off your unique creativity and style.   

Now that we have a basic understanding, let’s talk about how it is beneficial to small businesses, content creators, and users. 

How Are Instagram Reels Beneficial?

Gains More Traction 

Using Instagram Reels enhances the chances that someone could find your content. 

Reels earn 3x-4x more views than posts on Instagram because the algorithm has made it more accessible on people’s feeds. 

For businesses, there is a shop feature that links directly to any products from that Reel post. By using this feature, businesses can showcase their products while also gaining traffic for their website and social media pages.

For example, Sephora (@sephora) links the products for every makeup tutorial posted. When you click on view products, it directly pops up with the items used in the reel. You have the option to save, send, add to cart, or buy with just a click.

Showcase Personality 

Reels also allow the content creator to show their followers what makes them unique.

People follow those who genuinely showcase their personality or brand.  

Whether it is behind the scenes of ones creative process, before and after photos, ways to use a company’s product, etc.,the consumer wants to gain more insight into what makes you different. 

For instance, Julia Buschow (@littlepieceofchic), a fashion and lifestyle blogger, uses Instagram Reels as a way to showcase her new clothing finds, hair tutorials, holiday decor set up, or just a day in her life. 

She shows her genuine personality in every video, while also remaining unique and trendy.   

Communicate and Connect

Instagram Reels are a great way to communicate with your intended target audience. Gen Z and millennials use social media in their everyday life to communicate with each other.

By joining in the way they communicate, you can understand them better.

For example, Fabletics (@fabletics) uses its Reels to showcase its activewear while connecting with consumers. By using influencers like Maddie Ziegler to show off their products, Fabletics is establishing their relevance in the social culture of its consumers.

Tips for Instagram Reels  

Since we now have discussed some benefits, here are a few tips for building your content. 

Don’t Be a Copycat 

In our generation, thousands of people have gone viral on social media for the most random things. Whether it be for creating a dance to music by The Weeknd or writing a relatable tweet with a SpongeBob meme, there is no right way to create a trend or become an overnight sensation.

While you can always gain inspiration from someone or participate in a trend, directly copying someone won’t make your content noticeable. Do what makes you, you. People will notice and follow your content because you are uniquely yourself.

Shorter is Better

Our generation has a short attention span and content creators recognize that. You have 3-5 seconds to grab someone’s attention and get them to experience something with your post. To keep someone’s attention, you need to show them your why.

Why should they care? Why should they shop with you? Why is this video relevant to them? 

The shorter your video is, the better chance you have at gaining saves, shares, or likes.  

Encourage Feedback

A great way to continue to connect and grow with your followers is to ask for feedback. This ensures that you are keeping your target audience engaged with the content you are posting. 

For example, Glossier (@glossier) is a brand that goes above and beyond when it comes to feedback. This brand is purely based on feedback. The gTEAM is in charge of customer experience. They communicate directly with the consumers and then use their feedback to create even better products.

Consumers love to feel like they are a part of a brand. By prioritizing your consumers' feedback, you  will set yourself up for long-term success.

Also, Engaging in the comments section is also a great way to show followers you are active in communication and want to build a relationship. 

Instagram Reels are a great and easy way to grow your business since you can create unique content.

Just remember to be original, strategic, creative, and have fun! 

About the Author:

Monica Nieto is a budding young professional in the field of digital marketing and uses social media as a means of building relationships. Monica enjoys content marketing, such as the work done with The Oxman Group, and wants to continue to expand on this new passion in the future.