5 strategies for creating engaging Instagram Reels

“Reels, reels, reels!” is all that can be heard from the social media marketing community right now, but not without good reason. Reels are one of Instagram’s newest features, which means that the Instagram algorithm is favoring this type of content more than anything else right now. A simple click on Instagram’s Explore page showcases an array of content, often with at least one Reel occupying the top two rows. Clearly, Reels are an important part of every Instagram strategy right now, but proper execution is critical to getting high engagement and meaningful results.  As the old saying goes, “It’s not just about what you do, but how you do it.” Quality over quantity always matters. So, how can you create Reels that actually prompts engagement from your audience, instead of silence?

Let’s dive in. Our five tips and tricks to create an engaging Instagram Reel: 

1. Switch things up in your IG Reels with a variety of shots and angles 

A video that only includes one shot usually doesn’t result in high engagement.  Reels only last 15-30 seconds, so although it may be a bit of a daunting task, it’s crucial to keep viewers watching the whole way through.  Maintaining users’ attention and interest requires dynamic content, which can be provided by using a variety of angles and shots throughout the video.

A similar effect can also be accomplished by editing the video into 3-5 clips with different poses, even if it’s all shot from a similar angle.  Delivering unexpected and intriguing content is what keeps viewers coming back for more.

2. Include text to add value with Instagram Reels

We all know by now that Reels were modeled after TikTok. In turn, text matters. Not every Reel needs text, but if you’d like to convey information (like highlighting product features), text can significantly increase understanding and capture attention. 

At the same time, make sure to avoid text that’s too wordy, which can backfire. After all, Instagram is a platform based on visuals. Therefore, use text sparingly in Reels, only to elevate the video content, not detract from it. 

Lastly, Reels are short-form content. Viewers are not expecting to be receiving large amounts of information in a Reel. It’s a combo of bite-sized information packed with an impressive “wow” factor! 

3. Strategically Choose Songs in Instagram Reels
Platforms like Tiktok have shown us how powerful song choice is when it comes to content that people remember, return to, and share. Reels are all about creating an enjoyable and captivating viewer experience. So, it should be no surprise that the music selection is critical.

This is one of the advantages Reels have in contrast to static images. They offer another level of sensory experience involving sound. Be strategic in the song you select for your video. While it’s important to be aware of popular songs and it may be beneficial to use them at times, also keep in mind your brand and overall messaging.  

Some questions to ask might include: 

“How does this song fit within my brand?”
“Is this song relevant to this video content?”
“How does this song contribute to how my audience will feel about themselves and my brand/product?” 

Make sure to research which songs and audio other creators and brands use in their Reels, and find creative ways to take your own unique spin. Using popular songs/audio can be great for discovery, as users are able to click on the audio and see others using that same audio for their own Reels. 

But don’t limit yourself to only trendy music. Think about your favorite movie soundtracks, throwback songs, or songs that help showcase your brand’s personality. Music is one more way to differentiate your brand and let your followers know who you are. 

Important: If you are a brand that sells a product, you cannot post Reels with music provided by Instagram, due to copyright infringement. Business accounts can use original audio or copyright-free music. Fortunately, there are many subscriptions available to access copyright-free music. Facebook offers “Facebook Sound Collection” which includes music that Facebook owns that can be used for Reels without dealing with copyright issues. Creators, however, and those with personal accounts don’t have the same limitations when it comes to adding music to Reels.

5. Let Your Audience Get to Know You Through IG Reels

Fortunately, creating Reels doesn’t require advanced video editing skills. Anyone can make Reels! Over the years, Instagram has been referred to as a ‘highlight reel’ for both brands and influencers, thanks to the perfect lighting, retouching, and opportune camera angles. However, with Reels, brands and influencers can finally feel free to show a more authentic, unpolished side to their audience.  

The result is an increase in relatability and humility, which builds community and brand loyalty. Nobody’s perfect, and Reels are a great way to show that it’s true! It’s more and more common to see brands revealing the behind-the-scenes of photoshoots or a day in the life of the founder. Brands looking to develop an engaged community can use Instagram Reels to show that there’s a very real human element behind the logo.

Questions? Comments? Let’s get talking. Book a discovery call to discuss your brand’s goals on social with our founder here.