Instagram Reels is the newest arena for wannabe celebrities to showcase their talents.
The majority of marketers (58%) have already adjusted their methods to include this TikTok alternative.
There has been a lot of buzz about it on downtown social media since its release. However, many people are still in the dark about the best way to utilise Instagram Reels for professional purposes.
If you count yourself among them, then you are the target audience for this site.
Let’s find out why Reels on Instagram are becoming so popular before you add yet another column to your Instagram marketing plan.
When did Instagram Reels become so popular?
No introduction is necessary for the ubiquitous adolescent dance and lip-syncing video software.
In just the first three months of 2020, it has 315 million downloads. The stakes were so high that it made even the big dogs nervous.
Facebook pounced on the opportunity and stole the show. It had previously released Lasso, a comparable platform that had poor reception and was eventually shut down.
Multiple countries have blocked the Chinese company’s app after the TikTok issue over data leak and privacy threats. False information was also widely attributed to the app by its detractors. All of this transpired when everyone was quarantined at home due to a devastating pandemic.
The millennial and Gen Z communities were looking for new ways to pass the time. So, Instagram Reels put on their capes like super heroes and dove right in.
By the end of November 2019, a test version of it has been released in Brazil under the name Cenas. Positive outcomes were observed, with participation rates rising. Without further ado, Instagram Reels readied for its global premiere in 50 countries during the first week of August, 2020.
What are Instagram Reels? Let’s take a closer look.
A reel on Instagram is what?
In Instagram Reels, users can make short videos with augmented reality effects and music for fun or promotional use.
While Instagram’s IGTV and story features accomplished something similar, Reels is twice as impactful due to its shorter length.
Instagram users’ previous searches and likes inform the Explore tab’s recommendations of relevant Reels. The scope is expanded beyond a localised area to encompass the entire world.
You may also easily find IG Reels. Thanks to the most recent upgrade, the video Reels feature is now easier to find. The video Reels icon’s new home under the Search button was a stroke of genius.
When compared to TikTok, what sets Instagram Reels apart?
The hallmark of these apps aimed for Generation Z is the brief video content. Both are great for advertising a business of any size.
The fascinating elements of TikTok and Instagram Reels are very comparable. The mirrored pair, however, does not lack distinguishing features.
1. Possession
Instagram Reels, the newest update, is a product of Facebook. In contrast, ByteDance’s TikTok is the first Chinese app to go viral over the world.
2. Numbers and percentages
Both Instagram and TikTok are hugely popular among young people, but Instagram Reels has a more established user base. That’s why companies are welcoming Instagram Reels with open arms, as it’s opening up new avenues of profit for them.
3. Time span
Reels on Instagram have shorter time limits of 15 and 30 seconds, respectively, compared to the original TikTok’s one minute. You can use IGTV to promote videos up to one hour in length.
Instagram’s Feed Reels can only be accessed through the app’s “Explore” tab, for example. They’re not just on the homepage and profile page, but also in the IG Reels tab. On the other hand, TikTok just has one feed for its videos.
On the other hand, both applications update their content whenever you swipe up.
4. Unclassified
Unfortunately, Instagram Reels does not support the viral TikTok collaboration just now. The TikTok logo was prominently displayed in the corner of every video, but this is not the case with Instagram Reels.
The apps have turned up the fire on influencers on both platforms. Billion Dollar Boy claims that IG Reels’ play rate is 40.1%, whereas TikTok’s is only 9.4%.
IG Reels are the way to go if you already have a sizable following on Instagram. Upload the same content you have on TikTok to Reels if you have any time invested there.
How to Increase Your Instagram Followers: 4 Clever Methods
One mind-boggling dilemma remains, though: what should we upload to Reels?
Everyone take a moment to dab their foreheads.
Here are seven amusing topics to consider for your upcoming reel postings. They will undoubtedly deliver excellent financial benefits. Then, let’s move forward.
Obstacle
Who doesn’t enjoy a good competition or challenge?
The same can be said of your target demographic. Short challenges on TikTok, such as the #gesturechallenge and #savagechallenge, have proven to be very successful.
Create a fun brand-related challenge or collaborate with your friends to complete a viral one.
Guides
Everyone enjoys expanding their knowledge, and when doing so only takes 15 seconds, everyone is happy.
Use IG Reels to show your audience how to make use of your product. The most popular types of content right now are short makeup and cooking instructions.
Unheralded events
Involving your viewers in the inner workings of your company will help them feel more connected to your brand.
You can use the Reels to introduce the people who make your business tick. Share some insider details about your typical workday and routine.
If you are throwing a large event, make sure to record some of the chaotic preparations for use in your reel.
Tips
Give your readers a few outside-the-box hints and suggestions.
Create a series based on it, and dedicate an entire weekday to it. Any suitable holiday-related topic will do.
Boohoo provides colourful advice on how to stay fashionable when quarantined. Part 2’s discovery serves as a fitting close to the reel’s description.