Instagram reels is a short-form video platform introduced in 2020 as a competitor to TikTok. Reels allow creators to add effects, filters, and sound and string multiple videos together to make fun and engaging Instagram reels in a few minutes. However, as a business, it is essential to understand how the Instagram algorithm works and the type of reel content that increases the chances of reaching more audiences and gradually driving more sales.
In this post, you can find everything you need about how the Instagram algorithm works to boost your engagement and reach your target audience.
How Does Instagram Reels Algorithm Work?
The Instagram reels algorithm will decide which type of reels are shown to users on Instagram. You can see reels from the account you follow in your Instagram main feed. But there are two other places to find Instagram reels from your creators and business.
The Reels Tab: open Instagram, and tap the reel icon from the bottom of the homepage for an endless scrollable feed of Instagram reels selected by the IG algorithm.
The Explore Tab: In this tap, you can find plenty of engaging Instagram reels from other creators.
Much like the Instagram home feed, the reels algorithm prioritizes videos based on users’ interests and previously watched videos in Instagram reels. According to the Instagram algorithm, the essential signals are:
What: This shows what types of content you need to engage with. For example, if you love fitness content, the reels algorithm will start serving content related to fitness.
Who: whose content are you interacting with? If you often like, comment, or share someone’s post, you will be more likely to see their content in your feed.
Now you know what the Instagram reels algorithm prefers, and you can use this data to update your reel’s content strategy to gain more engagement and reach.
According to the Instagram algorithm, creators should post Instagram reels following the steps below.
- Create entertaining content to grab user attention
- Start an inspiring trend that others can participate
- Use creative tools like effects, filters, and texts
- Use vertical 9:16 ratio videos
- Add trending music from the library or original audio you find on reels
- Be authentic and see what works well for you
Also, Instagram advises that businesses should not post reels that:
- Low-quality videos
- Videos that are recycled from other social media apps.
- Videos shared with a border around them
- Majority of the video covered texts
- Do not cross Instagram community guidelines
Following these reels tips on Instagram can help you reach a new audience and increase followers.
2 Tips For Working With IG Reels Algorithm
Now you’ll understand how the Instagram reels algorithm works. But it is essential to know how to create compelling content to increase your reel’s exposure.
Tip 1: Create Visually Appealing Reels
When people click on the Instagram reels tab, they are expected to watch funny, engaging, and entertaining content. Share visually appealing content with effects and filters to keep your audience engaged and to gain more likes and views on Instagram reels.
Many successful brands on Instagram follow the current trend to reach a wider audience and grab user attention. So recreating trending content helps you get reels likes on Instagram and boost your account popularity. When your content has enough engagement Instagram algorithm will push your reels to the explore page.
Tip 2: Use The Right Hashtags
Hashtags are a great source of discovery for brands or creators, particularly on Instagram reels. Adding hashtags in your reels caption will increase your exposure to a wider audience and grow your followers organically.
Instagram reels allow you to add up to 30 hashtags, but I recommend adding 3 to 6 most relevant hashtags to get a better result for your business. Research your competitor in your industry to find the right hashtag for your business to reach your target audience.
Final Words
I know that only following these tips will not make your content work for the Instagram reels algorithm. But if you want to build a strong presence on Instagram, you need to consider these ideas to create compelling reel videos to engage your audience with your Instagram profile.