In the world of social media, new trends emerge and evolve at a rapid pace. Such a trend that has captured the attention and engagement of millions of social media users is Instagram Reels. This relatively recent addition to the Instagram platform has quickly become a popular feature and has transformed the way that users consume and share content. This blog provides insight into what it is about Instagram Reels that have led to this extensive popularity.
WHAT ARE INSTAGRAM REELS?
Instagram reels are full-screen, vertical videos which can be up to 90 seconds in duration. The feature comes equipped with an array of editing tools which allow creators to embellish their videos as well as a library of popular music to add to the creation.
Once posted, these reels will stay on a user’s profile, unlike stories which are deleted after 24 hours.
Many businesses have experienced the benefits of incorporating Instagram Reels into their marketing strategy, including increased engagement, improved reach and audience growth.
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WHY ARE INSTAGRAM REELS SO POPULAR?
Instagram reels are a type of short-form content which means that the message of the video is communicated in a matter of seconds. This brief but engaging format aligns with the fast-paced lifestyle of today’s audience. In a world that is flooded with information, capturing the attention of your audience is crucial to ensure that your message is being received. Instagram reels are an ideal way to do this as they do not demand a significant time investment from your audience but still capture their attention for the required amount of time.
Reels allow users to utilise their creativity with a wide selection of creative tools available to them. Individuals are able to personalise their videos with text, music, stickers, effects, AR filters and more. This emphasis on creativity encourages users to experiment and produce content that is unique and stands out.
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Instagram has an active user base of over a billion people worldwide, thus it already offers considerable visibility to brands that want to improve their audience reach. Reels take this visibility a step further. Currently, the Instagram algorithm favours Reels, pushing them to a broader audience, including users who may not already follow you. This increased exposure can lead to more followers and higher engagement on your page. Moreover, the ‘Explore’ page on Instagram also features Reels which ensures that this content reaches a diverse audience. Again, this will increase the visibility of both your content and your page.
Many users have found that they achieve higher views and engagement levels when they post Reels. This is because it is fun, digestible content that is easy to watch and retain. Consumers respond to these shorter, catchier videos more positively as they communicate marketing messages in a quick and engaging way as opposed to other forms of marketing methods such as blog posts.
Many users are yearning for more relatable and ‘real’ content where they feel more connected to the brands that they buy from. Instagram Reels are a noteworthy way for brands to share the face behind their brand. When consumers can interact with the people behind the brand, they feel more connected to it which will lead to increased trust and therefore more conversions. Furthermore, including Instagram Reels in a marketing strategy will display the brand’s character which, as a result, will make the brand more likeable and memorable.
Reels’ popularity can be attributed to many things but it is evident that this handy little feature has helped to shape the social media landscape. Although many are sceptical of this new way of marketing, especially due to its connection with the younger generations, it is important to remember that today’s youth are tomorrow’s adults. Many brands miss an advantageous opportunity when they decide against appealing to younger market segments. Leveraging the benefits of Instagram Reels will elevate your social media strategy to new heights and is an opportunity not to be missed.
If you have any questions about where to start or how Instagram Reels could benefit your business, get in touch with us.