Social Media is an ever-evolving entity with platforms constantly reinventing themselves and offering newer and more engaging features to its users. Some of these ideas succeed while others do not so much. A few years back when TikTok pioneered the short video format and attained unparalleled success, it was thought that it was here to stay and thrive. But it was not to be.

And TikTok’s adversity was an opportunity for others. Many apps tried to capitalize on it. But one succeeded much more than others- Instagram Reels.

Obviously, Instagram had many advantages. It was already one of the largest social media apps. Celebrities, high brands and influencers preferred Instagram more than other apps which gave it more prestige. And, Instagram already had IGTV for video sharing, so adapting the short video format was just a natural progression.

And, most importantly the timing of the launch of IG Reels was perfect- bang in the middle of lockdown. It came, it saw and it captured the imagination of the people who were stuck in their homes with not much to do like fire catches favorable winds.

• Why is Instagram Reels a boon for marketers?
• An Engaging Format

It is well known that the video format of communication is most favored by consumers. And, TikTok proved that if videos are short, succinct, and to the point; the engagement skyrockets. Instagram Reels currently allow 15-60 seconds long videos; and a lot of big names in e-commerce, retail, entertainment are using them to communicate directly to their followers.

Organically Viable

It is not just the big names who are reaping the benefits. Insta Reels have one of the highest ‘organic reach’ among social media formats. It allows small businesses to capitalize on viral trends and spread the word among prospective consumers.

The Insta Effect

A few years back Instagram adapted Snapchat’s story feature as its own and revolutionized it. Now it has adapted the short video format and is doing much better than any of its competitors. Instagram as a platform always have had an aura of innovation and eminence which has attracted business owners and users alike. At its heart it is a photo-sharing website and a picture says a thousand words. And, a video says a million. And, that is what makes Insta reels special-the platform that provides it.

Ease of Doing Business

Reels are easy to make and cost-effective. One does not need to do a lot of editing and choreography to make them. Reels have brought in an era of casual communication between brands and consumers which was unprecedented before. The many pre-existing templates, music options, and blueprints in the form of trends make the content creator’s job quite easy.

A Better Alternative

Reels are the better alternative to stories or live features of Instagram which was previously used by marketers to prop up their products and services. 

More Visibility

Reels garner higher visibility and reach due to the many ways they can be discovered by the end-user. Currently, there are four such ways-

1. They will show in your feed if you’re following that person who has created that Reel.
2. Clicking on any hashtag which is also used in the Reel will also help you find it.
3. Looking for the audio which has been used in the Reel will also show that reel in your search results.
4. Instagram Explore will show you various trending Reels and you can swipe through those to discover more.

How to effectively use Instagram Reels for marketing?

Following are some useful tips and practices which marketers, brands, and people use to effectively communicate via Insta Reels.

• Reels allow hashtags like any other IG post. Add relevant hashtags in captions to increase the reach and address your target audience.
• Reels has its own music catalogue. You can add music with just a tap and you have the option to chose which part of the song you want to induct in your reel. Also, adding trending music to your reels helps it get discovered better through audio. 
• Use disappearing texts to add content wherever required. This feature allows you add text at the time of your choosing and the positioning you want making it a useful addendum to any video.
• What is Instagram without effects? Choose from a plethora of pre-existing effects to make your video more engaging. 
• Share your reels to your stories and even other websites and platforms with just a tap to increase its reach.
• Add a personal touch to your video. Brands use disappearing texts to make short vlog like videos imparting important information, tips etc. They use effects like slo-mo, time lapse and green screen to educate people about their new products or some new features thereby highlighting their USP.
• Make the reels fun. You have all the tools at your disposal- music, effects, texts etc. As mentioned earlier Reels are about casual communication; a way to increase your relatability with the consumer.

In conclusion, it can be said that Instagram reels are a potent tool in the hand of any digital marketer and if used well they can bring your brand or product a lot of engagement and attention from the target audience.

Design Pundit Advertising Pvt Ltd is a social media agency situated in Gurugram and is one of the top players in the country providing excellent social media marketing services. With more than 12 years of experience in content creation and design strategies, we help you make your brand image charismatic, inspiring and legendary with our ever-evolving content marketing strategies and innovations.