As an online business owner, I decided to dive into Instagram Reels to promote my products and services. I experimented with different types of Reels, from faceless videos to product tutorials, trying to figure out what would work best for my audience. However, I quickly realized that my Reels weren’t getting the views I expected.
After doing extensive research and analyzing successful content strategies, I discovered a few key factors that could be holding my Reels back. Here are the tips I found to increase views and engagement on Instagram Reels.
1. Understanding How the Instagram Algorithm Works
One of the main reasons your Reels might not be getting views is due to how Instagram’s algorithm works. The algorithm prioritizes content based on engagement, video completion rates, and how relevant your content is to your audience.
- Engagement matters: The more interactions (likes, comments, shares, and saves) your Reel gets, the more Instagram will push it to other users.
- Retention is key: How long users watch your video also plays a big role. If viewers watch the entire Reel, the algorithm favors your content and boosts its visibility.
2. Content Quality: Hooking Viewers Early
One of the first things I learned is that Reels need to grab attention within the first 2-3 seconds. This is especially crucial for faceless content, where visual engagement matters even more.
- High-quality visuals: Ensure that your Reels are clear, well-lit, and aesthetically pleasing.
- Hook your audience immediately: Start with an eye-catching visual, an intriguing fact, or a bold statement to keep viewers from scrolling away.
- Use trending audio: Popular sounds and music tracks tend to get more exposure, as Instagram’s algorithm pushes Reels using trending audio.
3. Hashtags: Targeting the Right Audience
Using the wrong hashtags, or too many broad ones, can limit your reach. After researching, I found that using a focused hashtag strategy is crucial for reaching the right audience.
- Use 5-10 relevant hashtags related to your niche, products, and the specific Reel topic.
- Include a mix of niche-specific and trending hashtags to increase discoverability (e.g., #smallbusinessowner, #productdemo, #howtouse).
4. Active Engagement: Be More Than Just a Poster
Instagram doesn’t just reward those who post regularly—it also favors accounts that actively engage with the platform. When you're testing different types of Reels, make sure you also spend time interacting with other accounts.
- Engage with your audience: Reply to comments, ask questions, and participate in conversations on your posts.
- Interact with other users in your niche: Like, comment, and share relevant content from other businesses or creators.
5. Consistency: Maintaining a Regular Posting Schedule
Another key takeaway from my research was the importance of consistency. If you’re posting Reels sporadically, the algorithm may not prioritize your content.
- Post regularly: Aim for at least 3-4 Reels a week to stay visible.
- Monitor your Instagram Insights to figure out when your audience is most active and post during those times for better reach.
6. Content Alignment: Matching Your Reels to Audience Interests
One of the major reasons your Reels might not be performing well is that they don’t align with your audience's preferences. Based on my research, I learned that content tailored to your audience’s needs performs best.
- Analyze top-performing content: Look at which types of Reels have previously gained the most engagement and replicate that style or format.
- Use Instagram polls to ask your audience what type of content they want to see, whether it’s product demonstrations, tutorials, or behind-the-scenes insights.
7. Leverage Trending Features and Audio
Instagram prioritizes content that uses its latest features and trends. I found that using trending audio, filters, or effects can significantly increase your Reel’s chances of being seen by a wider audience.
- Keep up with trends: Regularly check Instagram’s Explore page to identify trending audio and features.
- Utilize Instagram’s built-in tools like text overlays, filters, and stickers to make your Reels more engaging.
8. Thumbnails: Create Eye-Catching Previews
I also discovered that thumbnails can make or break your Reel’s success. A poor thumbnail might cause potential viewers to skip your content altogether.
- Choose an engaging thumbnail that represents the essence of your Reel.
- Add bold text or visually appealing graphics to make your thumbnail stand out in the feed.
9. Posting at Optimal Times
Timing plays an essential role in how many views your Reels get. My research highlighted that posting when your audience is most active can significantly boost visibility.
- Use Instagram Insights to determine when your followers are online and aim to post during those peak activity periods.
- Experiment with posting at different times to see when you get the most engagement.
10. Encouraging Engagement with Clear CTAs
I found that adding a clear call to action (CTA) in your Reels and captions can significantly boost engagement. Without a CTA, viewers may simply watch your content and move on.
- End your Reels with a strong CTA, like “Save this video for later,” “Tag a friend who needs this,” or “Visit our website for more.”
- Include a CTA in the caption as well to encourage further engagement.
11. Experimenting With Reel Length
Different Reel lengths perform differently depending on your audience and content type. From my research, I found that experimenting with different Reel lengths can help you understand what works best for your business.
- Short Reels (under 15 seconds): These tend to perform well for quick product showcases or snappy tips.
- Longer Reels (30-60 seconds): These are better for detailed tutorials or more in-depth content that requires explanation.