How To Boost Your Reels On Instagram

Introduction.

Instagram Reels have become a game-changer for anyone looking to grow on the platform.

But creating a Reel and hoping it blows up isn’t enough. There’s a strategy behind the most successful Reels, and it’s simpler than you think.

In this guide, I’ll break down the steps to make your Reels stand out, how the Instagram algorithm works, and what you can do to get noticed.

Why Reels Matter

Instagram Reels are short, engaging videos designed to entertain and inspire. They’ve quickly become the most popular feature on the app because they’re fun and highly shareable.

Reels also show up in their feed, separate from regular posts and stories, which makes them an incredible tool for reaching new audiences.

Here’s why you should care about Reels:

More Exposure: Instagram pushes Reels to people who don’t follow you, meaning you can attract new followers.
Higher Engagement: Reels get better engagement rates compared to regular posts.
Business Growth: For brands, Reels help creatively showcase products.

How Do I Boost My Instagram Reels?

1. Start Strong

The first three seconds of your Reel are the most important. People scroll quickly, so grab attention right away. Use a bold visual, catchy music, or an intriguing hook to pull viewers in.

2. Use Trending Sounds

Instagram’s algorithm favours Reels that use trending audio. You can find trending sounds by looking for the small arrow next to a song in the audio library. Using popular sounds can significantly increase your chances of being featured.

3. Keep It Short and Engaging

While Reels can be up to 90 seconds, shorter videos (15-30 seconds) tend to perform better. Focus on making every second count.

4. Add Text and Captions

Not everyone watches videos with the sound on, so make sure your message is clear even without audio. Adding text or captions also makes your Reel more accessible.

5. Post at the Right Time

Timing matters. Use Instagram Insights to figure out when your followers are most active and post your Reels during those hours.

6. Use Hashtags Wisely

Hashtags help people discover your Reels. Stick to 5-7 relevant hashtags that align with your content. Avoid spammy or overly generic tags like #love or #fun.

7. Engage with Your Audience

Reply to comments, like other creators’ content, and interact with your followers. The more active you are, the more the algorithm will favour your account.

8. Pay Attention to Analytics

Use Instagram Insights to see which Reels are performing best. Pay attention to metrics like reach, shares, and saves. This data can help you understand what works and what doesn’t.

FAQs

How often should I post Reels?

Consistency is key. Aim to post 3-5 Reels per week if possible, but quality matters more than quantity.

Does using filters or effects help?

Yes! Filters and effects can make your Reels more visually appealing and keep viewers interested.

Can I boost Reels with ads?

Yes, Instagram allows you to promote Reels using paid ads. This can be a good option if you’re launching a product or trying to reach a specific audience.

What’s the best aspect ratio for Reels?

Use a 9:16 aspect ratio, which is the vertical format Instagram recommends.

Should I collaborate with other creators?

Absolutely! Collaborations expose your content to a wider audience and often lead to better engagement.

Additional Resources

Instagram Blog: Stay updated with the latest features and tips.
Canva: A great tool for creating eye-catching graphics for your Reels.
Meta Business Help Center: For troubleshooting and deeper insights into Instagram.