You’ve probably noticed Instagram’s latest addition to the platform; Reels. The feature has been around for a few months now and whilst influencer’s are uploading in their millions, we noticed not so many brands have found their feet. Reels are a new innovative way to share content and should definitely be maximised by brands to show that you are on top of the latest social media trends.

We’ve taken a look at what Reels can offer from a social media marketing perspective and why brands should be investing in getting this right.

What are Instagram reels?

  • Reels invites you to create fun videos to share with your friends or anyone on Instagram.
  • Record and edit 15-second multi-clip videos with audio, effects, and new creative tools.
  • You can share reels with your followers on Feed, and, if you have a public account, make them available to the wider Instagram community through a new space in Explore.
  • Reels in Explore offers anyone the chance to become a creator on Instagram and reach new audiences on a global stage.

Why should you use reels as part of your social media marketing strategy?

  • 87% Of TikTok Users: Instagram Reels Is “Basically The Same”. And 61% said they’ll be spending more time on Instagram as a result – Watch out, TikTok.
  • It’s a channel most brands are already on so doesn’t require creating a new profile and trying to grow a following from scratch.
  • It’s an opportunity to show off your creativity.
  • Reels is a new way to show followers the following content; behind the scenes, meet the team, how to’s, recipe inspo, did you knows and to tap into trending content.

Can you use reels for business purposes?

  • Currently there are no advertising options available for Reels; you can’t pay to boost your Reels or buy a featured spot.
  • Since Reels is fully organic right now, you’ll be able to measure your business’ success on Reels in traditional social media metrics:

“Plays”, or video views (which are counted from the instant a Reel starts playing, rather than 3 seconds in like Facebook videos; it doesn’t include replays)

Likes and comments

Shares

  • There are some restrictions around business accounts use of music, so check if you have this option or if you can only use original audio you may need to think outside of the box.

Brands who are getting it right when it comes reels:

  • Brands have started to explore Reels.
  • Reels is currently dominated by fashion, beauty, fitness and foodie
  • In particular, brands who are using Reels successfully have focussed on trending content such as – dances, challenges, make-up trends, fashion trends etc.
  • Consider using reels when working on your next influencer campaign.
  • Brands to look at: Topshop, Gymshark, ASOS, Sophia Webster (you can only watch reels on the mobile app).

At Prohibition, we work with a range of brands across all sectors to create engaging social media marketing strategies that help to achieve businesses goals and objectives. Get in touch today to find out how we could help you: hello@prohibitionpr.co.uk.

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