Using Instagram Reels for Brand Building

I know what you’re thinking… Another content format on Instagram?

Yeah, it can be kind of overwhelming. However, it’s actually proving itself to be quite popular. Tons of brands are using it as a way to reach new people and establish a strong connection with their existing customer base. And you can be doing the same!

Let’s dive into what you need to know about Instagram Reels.

The Difference Between Reels & Other Instagram Video

Reels are definitely different from the content you’re used to creating for Instagram. It’s in direct competition with TikTok, which was the most downloaded app of 2020. At this time, Instagram allows you to create Reels that are up to 30 seconds long in length. You can add sound to these videos to create something entertaining or educational.

Videos that you post directly to your Instagram feed can range anywhere from three to 60 seconds. On IGTV, you can upload videos that are up to 10 minutes long by using their website or 60-minute videos if you’re a verified account. The great thing about videos on Instagram Reels, the feed, or IGTV is that they don’t expire.

Instagram Stories and Lives, however, will expire unless you take action to change that. You can add Stories to your highlights so they have a place to live on well into the future. And you can also save your Instagram Live by adding it to IGTV for later viewing.

Why You Should Consider Using Instagram Reels

Many brands are opting to use Reels to gain more traction on the platform. And they’re doing it for good reason. If your target audience is 25-34 year olds, they’re the largest age group using Instagram. And Reels is just one way you can get your brand in front of them.

Not only that, but Instagram still has roughly one billion monthly active users. That means the more you’re using the platform, the more opportunity you have to get your brand out there. So, it’s worth getting those creative juices flowing and finding fun ways to use Instagram Reels.

Using Instagram Reels for Brand Building

Now that you know a little about Instagram Reels, you’re probably wondering how exactly this content format can help you build your brand. Well, here are a few tips on how to make it worth your while:

1. Have a Purpose-Driven Plan in Place

Yes, Instagram Reels is fun. However, you still want to make sure that the time and effort you put into creating Reels content is worthwhile. You want to see a return on your investment. And the best way to do that is to know what you want to get out of the content you create so you can develop an effective plan accordingly.

So, what do you want your Instagram Reels to do for you? Do you want it to boost your following or engagement? Would you like to use it to drive conversions of some kind? Figure out your end goal and then you’ll be able to come up with content ideas that’ll get you your desired results.

2. Use Them to Educate Your Audience

We all love a good laugh, but educational content is just as amazing. If you have something to share that you know your audience would love to learn about, turn it into incredible Reels content. When people begin to see that you’re a valuable source of information, they’ll want to keep coming back for more. They’ll see you as trustworthy and they’ll be sure to follow and engage with your content so they don’t miss anything you share in the future. Before you know it, they’ll begin to see you as a go-to resource in your industry.

3. Highlight What Makes You Unique

Odds are, there are a ton of brands out there doing what you do. If you can find a way to differentiate yourself from the others. This way, people start to see the value you have to offer and will be more inclined to purchase from you instead of your competitors. Consider why someone should choose your brand. Think about what you have to offer that your competitors don’t. And make sure you’re highlighting this via the Instagram Reels you create.

You can offer a fresh perspective here and position yourself to be in front of a much wider (and new) audience, generating tons of additional exposure with every Reel you share.

4. Get Ahead by Utilizing TikTok Trends

If you’re a regular on TikTok, you’ve probably noticed that trends on TikTok later become trends on Instagram Reels. By staying updated on the latest TikTok trends, you can create content for Reels ahead of time and be ahead of the curve. And isn’t it fun being one of the first to jump on a new trend on a platform?

5. Be Your Authentic Self

Reels can be an amazing way to humanize your brand. People want to get to know the person (or the people) behind the business. You can use Instagram Reels to show off your personality and give everyone a behind-the-scenes look into your everyday life. It’s perfect for allowing them to get to know you and for establishing trust. You know, building that Know, Like, and Trust Factor.

Instagram is Pushing Reels & You Should Take Advantage

It’s really no secret that Instagram is taking Reels pretty seriously. They’re encouraging people to utilize this content format, as evidenced by its special placement in the bottom navigation bar of the app. So, you’re sure to be rewarded when you use Instagram Reels consistently. In fact, it just might be the key to seeing follower growth and more engagement on your account.

Just keep the tips shared in this post in mind. You want to make sure you’re using Reels strategically and with purpose. (Of course, a fun, spontaneous Reel once in a while never hurt anyone.) But when you’re using it to your advantage to build your brand and establish yourself as a leader, you’ll see tremendous results.