How To Make Your Reels Go Viral On Instagram

Introduction.

Instagram Reels have become one of the most effective ways to reach a broader audience, boost engagement, and grow your profile.

With over 2 billion active users on Instagram, it’s no surprise that Reels, in particular, has become a huge deal for anyone looking to stand out and gain visibility. But let’s be real—getting your Reels to go viral isn’t easy.

It’s more than just posting a random video and hoping for the best. If you want to get your Reels noticed and loved by Instagram’s algorithm, you’ll need a strategy.

The beauty of Instagram Reels is that they have the potential to reach millions, even if you don’t have a massive following.

And while there’s no one-size-fits-all formula, there are certain tactics that can significantly increase your chances of creating content that resonates with the right audience and attracts a ton of views.

I’ll walk you through exactly what it takes to make your Reels stand out, go viral, and get the engagement you deserve.

Why Reels Matter

Reels are Instagram’s answer to TikTok. They allow users to create short, engaging videos that are perfect for quick entertainment, education, or just pure fun.

These videos show up on the Explore page and in people’s feeds, making it easier for anyone to stumble upon your content, even if they aren’t following you. If you’re trying to build a brand or simply want to grow your Instagram presence, mastering Reels is a must.

Instagram itself has said that it’s prioritizing Reels in its algorithm, meaning that content creators and businesses who use Reels strategically are more likely to get noticed. So, if you’re not already using Reels in your content strategy, now is the time to start.

Understanding Instagram’s Algorithm

Before we dive into strategies for going viral, it’s crucial to understand how Instagram’s algorithm works, especially when it comes to Reels.

Instagram’s algorithm is designed to show people the content they are most likely to engage with, based on factors like:

User interaction: If someone likes, comments, or shares your posts, Instagram will show them more of your content.
Relevance: Instagram looks at what kind of content people engage with the most, based on their interests and previous activity.
Timeliness: Newer content is prioritized, so being consistent with your uploads can help you stay on people’s feeds.
Video quality: Instagram favours content that’s engaging and well-produced.

With this in mind, let’s break down the strategies that can help you create viral Reels that Instagram’s algorithm will love.

Tips for Creating Viral Reels

1. Start with a Hook

The first few seconds of your Reel are the most important. If you don’t capture someone’s attention right away, they’ll swipe right past you.

Whether it’s through humour, an intriguing question, or a visually captivating intro, make sure your video grabs people’s attention within the first 3 seconds.

This is crucial because Instagram tends to prioritize videos that keep people engaged for longer periods.

2. Use Trending Music and Sounds

One of the best ways to get your Reels noticed is by using popular sounds or music. When a song or sound is trending, Instagram boosts that content, meaning your Reel has a higher chance of appearing on the Explore page or getting shared.

To find trending sounds, scroll through Reels and take note of what music is being used often. Incorporating these can make your content feel fresh and relevant.

3. Keep It Short and Sweet.

While Reels can be up to 90 seconds long, shorter videos tend to perform better. Aim for a length that’s around 15 to 30 seconds—enough to grab attention and get your message across without losing the viewer’s interest. People are on Instagram for quick entertainment, so make every second count.

4. Engage with Your Audience.

When people comment on your Reels, reply to them! Engagement is a key factor in how Instagram ranks your content.

The more interactions your video gets (likes, comments, shares), the higher the chances it has of going viral. Engaging with your followers also builds a sense of community and loyalty.

5. Use Hashtags Wisely.

Hashtags are still a crucial tool for increasing your reach on Instagram, but you’ve got to use them the right way.

Instead of just using generic hashtags like #Reels or #Insta, focus on more specific ones that match your content.

For example, if you’re posting a cooking Reel, use hashtags like #FoodReels or #RecipeInspo. Don’t overload your post with hashtags either—around 5 to 10 relevant hashtags should do the trick.

6. Post Consistently.

Posting regularly increases your chances of getting noticed. The more you post, the more opportunities there are for your Reels to go viral.

Try to establish a consistent schedule so your followers know when to expect new content from you.

7. Focus on High-Quality Content.

While authenticity is key, it’s also essential to focus on the quality of your videos.

Poor lighting, shaky camera work, and blurry footage won’t get you far. Invest in good lighting (natural light works wonders) and a steady hand (or a tripod) to make sure your Reels look professional.

People are more likely to share high-quality videos, which increases your chances of going viral.

8. Tell a Story or Add Value.

Even though Reels are short-form content, that doesn’t mean they should be mindless. The most viral Reels tend to tell a story, offer something valuable, or entertain people in a meaningful way.

Whether it’s a quick tip, a funny moment, or a touching story, try to create content that leaves your audience with something memorable.

9. Leverage User-Generated Content.

If your followers are creating content around your brand or using your product, ask them if you can share their posts on your account.

This is a great way to build community and boost credibility. Plus, Instagram loves user-generated content, and it can give your Reels a much-needed boost.

10. Collaborate with Others.

Collaboration can be a powerful tool for going viral. Partnering with influencers or creators in your niche can expose your Reels to a wider audience.

Whether you’re doing a duet, challenge, or simply sharing each other’s content, collaborations can help you tap into a new following and get more eyes on your videos.

FAQs

Can I make a Reel with just my phone?

Absolutely! You don’t need fancy equipment to create viral Reels. Most phones today have excellent cameras that can shoot high-quality video. Just make sure you focus on good lighting and clear visuals.

How many hashtags should I use on my Reels?

Use around 5 to 10 hashtags that are relevant to your content. Too many hashtags can come across as spammy, so stick to what fits your video.

How do I know if my Reel is going viral?

You’ll know if your Reel is going viral when you start seeing a big spike in views, likes, shares, and comments. Pay attention to your Instagram Insights to see how your Reels are performing.

How often should I post Reels?

The more consistent you are, the better! Aim for posting at least 2-3 times a week, but don’t sacrifice quality for quantity. Consistency is key, but make sure each Reel is high-quality and engaging.

Further Resources

Conclusion

Getting your Instagram Reels to go viral is no easy feat, but with the right strategy and consistent effort, it’s entirely possible.

By focusing on creating engaging, high-quality content, leveraging trends, and interacting with your audience, you can significantly increase your chances of going viral.

So, are you ready to make your next Instagram Reel your breakout hit?