How to Use Instagram Reels

It’s been a while since we chatted about the latest and greatest with Instagram. As you probably know, Instagram, and most social media platforms, are CONSTANTLY shifting. While there is nothing earth-shattering to report, the most noteworthy change to Instagram in the past 12 months is the introduction of Instagram Reels (launched in August 2020).

And while many of us are binge watching Reels, just like TikTok, a lot of business owners still don’t quite understand why or how to use this feature. We’re not going to wait until the end to reveal the secret. Keep reading so that you too can master how to use Instagram Reels.

Here’s the Why: VIEWS

The viewership on IG Reel content far surpasses anything you’ll experience (from a business perspective) in the feed or in your stories. Why…? Because the IG Reels feed isn’t over-saturated with content yet, so there’s a real opportunity to get eyes on your content if you get started now!

Looking for ideas on how to get started creating IG Reel content for your business? Let’s talk about one of the easiest hacks there is when learning how to use Instagram Reels.

Utilize Instagram Story Content

The first thing you’ll want to do is head to your Instagram archives. Don’t know how to get there? Here’s a quick tutorial. Sift through the great content you’ve used in the past (or before Instagram Reels were created), and download your stories. Once you’ve saved some videos, navigate back to the home screen. Go through the steps you’d take to post a story or a post, but this time, click REELS!

The videos you saved to your camera roll can now be uploaded and previewed in Instagram Reels. The actual interface of reels is much like Instagram stories, so learning how to use Instagram reels will be easy peasy. Let’s take a look at how to create content.

Creating Reel Content

If creating content directly in Instagram reels is intimidating, consider creating it in Canva. Canva is a free resource (with paid plans available) and takes the pressure off of creating! You can post when you want to and keep a library of content. There are built-in templates and fonts to play with as you learn how to use Instagram reels.

It is important to note that while Instagram prefers that you create content directly in the app, you can use this method as well.

How to Gain More Traction on Instagram Reels

So now you’ve created content or you’re utilizing past stories. How do you get them to pick up traction? We’ve put together some quick pointers from the experts to get you started.

• Use hashtags that have 100k to 1 million hits
• Use a max of 10 hashtags IN the description, not in the comments
• Look at other reels that are popular and copy some of those hashtags
• Don’t use unique hashtags, since this won’t work for reels

These steps help optimize your Instagram SEO and get your content REALLY out there. What’s not to love?

How to Use Instagram Reels

Hopefully, now you know a bit more about Instagram reels and why they are great for your business. While some of your videos may only get a few views, others might get several thousand (and beyond)! The organic reach alone makes it worth it. We hope you found this little tutorial helpful; now go create some great content!

If creating content or marketing, in general, isn’t your forte, we know some great people who specialize in digital marketing. If it’s time to bring a marketing agency on for your business, consider scheduling a complimentary consultation with us today!