With over 1.3 billion users, Instagram is one of the best places for businesses to connect with current and potential customers. Brands using the platform have the ability to grow their following while marketing their store and building relationships. However, to stay ahead of the competition you must ensure you use the features available. Below we look at how to use Instagram Reels for your store marketing campaigns.
Instagram Reels are short-form videos that you can add effects, sounds, and stickers to. The platform is very similar to TikTok. The videos can be anywhere from 15 seconds to 1 minute long and are supposed to be a fun way to share content. Businesses are able to create unique content showcasing their store to generate interest in the brand. Users can view reels on the Instagram Explore page, or by using the Reels feed.
By using Instagram, businesses can create video content in the app itself. This means there is no need to have additional software for editing or filming. Better yet, there is a wide range of special effects, editing transitions, and audio options available to use. Furthermore, as a business owner, you can tag products featured within the reel so viewers can shop directly from the video.
Creating a Reel can be a little bit intimidating at first, however, the process is actually quite simple. Follow the guide below to get started.
The first thing to do is log in to your business Instagram account. Once you are logged in, go to your feed and click the ‘Create New’ or + button in the top right corner. Now, swipe through the options at the bottom to select ‘Reels.’
Now, it’s time to record a video. Or, you can upload a previously recorded video from your gallery. To record within the app, simply tap the record button to start filming. Then tap again when you want to stop recording. You can record multiple clips at once without needing to exit the app. Simply set up your first shot, tap to start filming, tap to top filming, then set up your second shot and tap to start recording again.
Note, to help make transition videos easier, whenever you tap to stop filming, you can select the ‘Align’ filter on the left-hand side. This shows an overlay of what you just filmed to help you line things up for the second shot.
Once you have recorded or uploaded all your clips, it is time to edit them. To access the editing options, simply click next. Here there are options to add stickers, text, special effects, voiceovers, definitely add music, and even drawings to your video. Take your time while editing, and ensure that you watch it back before proceeding to post it. This is what really makes your Reel have potential!
Once you have finished editing your video, click the ‘Share to’ button. This will open the typical share window where you can add a caption and hashtags. You can also tag people during this step. If the reel is in partnership with another company or person you can disclose this, and you can opt to have it show on your regular feed, or just your Reels feed.
Now that you have created, edited and captioned your reel, it is time to publish it. Simply click ‘Share’ to make your Reel public. Ensure you share your Reel to your Stories to help boost the reach and engagement.
Using Instagram Reels for your store marketing doesn’t need to be complicated. In fact, once you get used to the process, you’ll be able to create a Reel in just minutes. Plan out your Reels content and pre-film content to ensure that your Reels are on brand and authentic. Then, use both pre-filmed content and trending content to market your store effectively on Instagram. Using Reels allows even new businesses to generate interest in their products and drive traffic to their stores.
