As increasing global privacy concern continues to hound Tiktok, Instagram launches a new way to record and discover short clips on their platform. Enter Instagram Reels.
Facebook-owned Instagram very recently launched Reels in Australia after initially being tested in India in early July. By the end of June, India banned Tiktok, and the USA is gearing towards the same move.
There have been allegations that the Chinese video-sharing app is feeding users’ data to the Chinese government, although Byte Dance, its parent company, has vehemently denied it.
The release of Instagram Reels in Australia also comes as the user demand for short video content grows exponentially. According to Instagram, 45% of all videos posted on their platform over the last month were under 15 seconds.
How Does Instagram Reels Work?
Like Instagram Stories, IGTV and Live, Reels is another content creation function on the Instagram app. The concept is similar to Tiktok’s. As an Instagram user, you can create and edit 15-second multi-clips and set them with audio and effects. You can share the short videos or Reels with your followers on your Feed, and if you have a public account, a wider Instagram community can view them through Instagram Explore.
How To Use Instagram Reels:
- At the bottom of the camera, select Reels. You’ll see several creative editing tools including Audio, AR Effects, Timer and Countdown, Align and Speed.
- To create the first clip, press and hold the capture button. As you record, you’ll see a progress indicator at the top of the screen. Stop recording to end each clip. You can make a series of clips one at a time, all at once, or using video uploads from your gallery.
- Once you’re ready to share your clip, move to the share screen You can save a draft, change the cover image, add a caption, use hashtags and tag your friends.
- Your shared Reels will be in a separate Reels tab on your profile, where people can view them. If you opt to share it to your Feed, they will also appear on your main profile grid, though you have the choice to remove them.
- You can share your Reels to your Story, but it will not show in Instagram Explore, and it won’t appear on your profile. It will also disappear after 24 hours, like regular Story.
How Can You Use Instagram Reels For Marketing Your Business?
Reels is another excellent opportunity to promote your business. It’s a fun and entertaining way to grow your reach on Instagram and build a community of followers. Since it’s only a 15-second clip, you can get creative but not too overwhelmed about the amount of content you need to include in an otherwise longer video.
Tips When Creating Content For Your Reels
Find what Resonates with your Audience: Knowing who your target viewers are is vital in creating content that speaks to them. Get updated on trending topics related to your industry. Visit forums and find out the pulse of the people. Search popular hashtags, so you know the current conversation online. Determine your audience’s pain points and present the solution in your Reels.
Be Authentic: Reels can give your audience a 15-second glimpse of who you are, your culture and what you stand for. It’s the perfect opportunity to show them the less picturesque side of your business. They can see this as you opening up to them, which can result in genuine trust.
Content Ideas For Reels For Business
- Showcasing your existing products and services
- A teaser of new products and services
- Quick How-To videos
- Promoting flash sales/specials
- Behind the scenes of your company event
- Introducing a new team member
- A tour of your store/shop/factory
- Industry-related educational videos
- An update about your business
Along with 50 other countries, Australia now has a front-row seat to witness the rise of another Instagram sharing feature. Take advantage of the creative opportunity waiting for you. While it’s still hot and fresh, be the first to utilise this tool so you can bring your business closer to your audience.
What do you think of Instagram Reels? Are you ready to experience the true “Reels Feels”? Please get in touch with us so we can talk about how it can work for your business.
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