Instagram Reels is a feature that allows users to create and share short-form videos on the platform. As a small business owner, Reels can be a powerful tool to showcase your brand, products, and services. Here are some best practices to keep in mind when creating Reels for your business:
1. Keep it short and sweet
Reels are meant to be short-form videos, so keep your content concise and engaging. Aim for videos that are 7-30 seconds long.
2. Use proper video formatting
Since Reels are displayed in full-screen on mobile devices, it’s crucial to ensure that all your content is in a vertical format with 9:16 dimensions. Uploading a video with a different aspect ratio may result in parts of your video getting cropped out or having black bars above and below it. This not only looks unappealing but also tends to underperform on the platform. Therefore, it’s important to stick to the recommended aspect ratio to optimize your Reels for maximum engagement.
3. Avoid creating graphics only content
Reels generally don’t perform well with graphics-only content. Therefore, it’s advisable to analyze your specific niche and competition before creating this type of content. This will help you determine whether it’s appropriate for your audience and whether it will be able to compete effectively with other content on the platform.
4. Use trending music and hashtags
To increase the visibility of your Reels, use trending music and hashtags that are relevant to your business. This will help your content appear in the Explore page and reach a wider audience.
5. Post high quality videos
Creating a high-quality video for Reels doesn’t necessarily require high production. You don’t have to hire someone to create videos for you, but it’s important to ensure that your video is clear and visually appealing. Filming with your phone can work great, provided that you use proper lighting and staging techniques to enhance the overall quality of your video.
6. Show off your products and services
Reels are a great way to showcase your products and services in action. Use the feature to highlight your best-selling products, demonstrate how to use them, and show off their unique features.
7. Get creative with editing
Reels offer a variety of editing tools, such as filters, text, and stickers. Use these tools to add personality to your videos and make them stand out from the crowd.
8. Avoid lengthy captions
Long captions on Reels should be avoided as they tend to expand over the video and distract the viewer’s attention. Therefore, it’s best to keep your captions concise and to the point to ensure that your audience remains engaged with your content.
9. Be authentic
Authenticity is key on Instagram, so don’t be afraid to show the human side of your business. Share behind-the-scenes footage, introduce your team, and give your followers a glimpse into your daily operations.
10. Engage with your audience
Encourage your followers to engage with your Reels by asking questions, running contests, and responding to comments. This will help build a sense of community around your brand and keep your followers coming back for more.
By following these best practices, you can create engaging and effective Reels that help promote your small business on Instagram.
