"Reel" Them in with Instagram

Staying relevant on social media is crucial to the success of a business in today’s world. Content is key–video content in specific. Video content performs 1200% better than other content. This is for a variety of reasons; visual appeal, increased engagement, emotional connection, versatility, mobile consumption, and algorithmic favoritism. Utilizing video content effectively can lead to increased user engagement, brand awareness, and social media success.

Instagram introduced Reels in 2020 and has since been used by many advertisers, including us, ever since. Reels are a video feature on Instagram and Facebook that are less than 60 seconds long. These entertaining and engaging videos are easy to make with fun features to add (music, stickers, etc.). This week Instagram added 4 new features to Reels that can benefit digital marketers, like us.

• A dedicated destination to discover inspiration through trending audio and hashtags on Instagram Reels. A destination to discover trends is huge news for digital marketers. We will be able to keep up with the trends much easier and not get left behind on fun content.
• Easier Reels editing. Now that editing Reels will be easier, we can make quality content quicker.
• Two new metrics to Reels insights: total and average watch times. Understanding insights help us understand what we’re doing wrong and right. Now we’ll have an easier time making content that people want to see.
• Expanded availability of gifts on Reels to additional countries and incorporated a feature that allows creators to acknowledge fans’ gifts. Gifts are a form of currency sent on the app from the viewer to the creator. By expanding the countries that can send gifts, creators can receive more compensation for their hard work

Overall, Instagram’s continuous improvement and expansion of features creates a more interactive environment for creators and users. These improvements also help advertisers better understand user behavior, identify trending content, and develop targeted campaigns that resonate with their audience.