Increasing Engagement on Instagram Reels

Video content is only growing- since TikTok blew up in 2020. In 2024, reels are the strongest way to get new eyes to your profile. So strong that Instagram has taken out regular videos and completely moved over to Reels. Instagram reels bring a 22% boost to engagement. 

Now that this is common knowledge, competition is high.

How can you set yourself apart on Instagram?

1. Hook people early!

The first 3 seconds of a reel should be engaging. Think of when you're scrolling, our attention spans are short with billions of videos out there to see. Remember that Nissan TikTok that went viral earlier this year? The first 3 seconds were of a gurney falling over transitioning into a salesperson rolling on the floor and then talking about the car! Of course, people copied this and it grew old, but the original was gold! 

2. Utilize hashtags #

Don't just use generic hashtags, but also include specific niche-centered hashtags relating to your content!

3. Reshare your reels to your Instagram story

Posts can get lost when your followers follow lots of people or refresh their feed. That's why sharing your reel on your story can promote more views and interaction.

4. Utilizing trends

Templates, story telling and songs. Keeping up with trends helps to stay relevant. Remember your making content for a people audience not just the algorithm, so stay authentic. 

Tip: Using songs that are earlier in the trending phase or in the middle of it is better than using a song that has been used by over 100K users because then it is likely closer to the end of the trend. 

5. Use NATIVE text and editing tools to Instagram

Instagram pushes content created within their platform. When you write your text they can read and determine what your post is about and who to show it to. Compared to using a third party platform to put your text all together.

Tip: You don't have to give up a certain font or transition you like better from Canva or CapCut- but behind the image or reel you are posting on Instagram include text or hidden on the photo and reel. This is so Instagram can understand your post.

6. Optimize your cover photo

Remember click bait cover photos on YouTube? Think along those lines, but not spammy. Use catchy verbiage and an appealing visual after all this is the first impression before people choose to click and view your reel on your profile.

7. Your format dimensions

Is your content vertical? Ratio 9:16? This content is made for a phone when it fits dimensions it is more appealing and likely to get more views and engagement. 

8. Captions

Talk to your audience, ask them to leave comments or share an experience. Be concise as Instagram is more of a visual platform, but also be strategic with your word choices to show up when people are searching.

Need help applying these strategies to increase engagement on Instagram? Book a discovery call with us!