The new Instagram feature that has left everyone Reeling…

Social Media has become a crucial and core element of marketing strategy. However, social media platforms are constantly changing and adding knew features to try and keep ahead of the curve, making it hard for businesses to keep up.

Earlier this month, Instagram added a new feature called Reels. Whilst many social media influencers flocked to try this new feature to see how it could elevate their status, many brands have found it difficult to incorporate this to their social media schedule. It was not clear how this new feature would help brands build their audience and better demonstrate their products and services.

The most important thing to remember when using a new tool or platform is to understand why you’re using it – what benefit does it bring? Then figure out how it works, and how you can use it to its full potential.

So, what is Reels and how does it work?

Reels is a new feature Instagram introduced earlier this month. The feature is part of their stories section and is a way for users to edit together little videos and collate them into one story. For example, the stories feature tends to be point and shoot videos or posting pictures that do not sit on the grid. However, Reels is an edited video that you can edit right there on Instagram with no additional software needed.

The feature also lets you add music, effects, filters and alter the video speed. However, the total length of the edited video can only be 15 seconds long. You can then add it as a story or save it as a Highlight for future use.

How can I use this to build my brand?

Now that we understand how Reels works, the obvious question is how can you make it work for you?

There are various ways you can use reels such as introducing new team members, projects, or products and services. Your social media coverage should be a mix of business and people and a dollop of personality. So, why not showcase the different teams, offices, tools etc that make your company a success?

Different industries will use it differently. For instance, fashion and retail brands can highlight different outfits that can be styled with their products. Alternatively, the food industry could share recipes or ingredients.

If you need help with your social media, get in touch with the team at The Bridge who will be happy to help.