
12 Jul How to Go Viral on Instagram Reels?
Summary
Remember when Instagram first rolled out the Reels feature?
It was back in 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic was at its peak, and people around the world were desperately hunting for new ways to entertain themselves. Despite the timing, initial reactions were lukewarm, with some even going to the extent of labeling it a TikTok clone.
But deep down makers of the app knew they had something special — and they were right!
Today, Reels are dominating the social media space. According to a report by Meta — Instagram’s parent company — these short, punchy videos get over 200 billion plays per day.[1] The main reason is the algorithm. It loves these engaging snippets, pushing them into the spotlight and across diverse audiences globally.
Now, you might be asking yourself: How can you tap into this massive potential? How can you make your Reels go viral?
Don’t worry; we’ve got your back. In this article, we’re spilling the beans on essential tactics that transform ordinary posts into viral hits. From tapping into trending hashtags to creating content that stops scrollers in their tracks, we’ve lined up everything you need.
Why Should You Post Instagram Reels?
As per a recent study that compared TikTok vs Instagram Reels, brands tend to see better engagement and reach on Instagram Reels. This makes it a powerful tool for businesses looking to grow their audience and boost interaction.
- Easy Creation and Cost-Effective: You don’t need a professional setup to create compelling Reels. Even a smartphone with a decent camera and good lighting will do the trick. This accessibility makes Reels an excellent tool for creators and businesses to share content without heavy investment in equipment.
- Versatile Content Formats: Reels allow you to experiment with various content types — be it behind-the-scenes clips, product showcases, or educational videos.
- Algorithm Preference: As we mentioned earlier, Instagram has shifted towards a video-first approach, and Reels are at the forefront of this strategy. The platform’s algorithm prioritizes Reels, making it essential for creators to utilize this feature to maximize their visibility and engagement.
- Creative Marketing Tool: Reels offer a creative avenue to promote your products or services without overwhelming your audience with direct advertisements. By incorporating trends and popular music, you can make your promotions entertaining and engaging, which can lead to better brand awareness and customer engagement.
Understanding the Algorithm to Go Viral on Instagram Reel
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To go viral on Instagram Reels, you first need to get a proper grip on how the platform’s algorithm functions. It’s the main reason why some Reels get more views and others don’t.
Here’s a breakdown of the key factors it considers:
Number of Views and Engagement
The algorithm loves engagement. Reels that quickly gather views, likes, comments, and shares are more likely to get pushed further.
Relevance
The algorithm also pays close attention to user behavior. It learns what types of content a user interacts with and will more likely show similar Reels from other creators. If a viewer frequently watches cooking videos, for instance, the algorithm will prioritize similar thematic content in their feed and Explore page.
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Relationships
The strength of your interactions with your audience also influences the algorithm. Reels from creators you interact with more frequently or have direct connections with (like comments or DMs) are more likely to show up in your feed.
Captions and Hashtags
Well-crafted captions that add context to your reel, along with relevant hashtags, can help the algorithm understand the content better and match it with interested viewers.
12 Tips to Go Viral on Instagram Reel
Now, let’s look at 12 Tips to make your IG reels go viral:
Tip 1: Start With a Bang
Kick off your Instagram Reel with something unforgettable. Whether it’s a dramatic visual, an intriguing question, or an immediate burst of energy, your opening should make viewers stop scrolling and pay attention.
For instance, if you’re making a cooking Reel, begin with the end product — a stunning, mouth-watering dish — then rewind to show how you got there. This “reverse” approach not only surprises viewers but also hooks them as they wait to see the transformation unfold.
Tip 2: Get the Size Right
For your Reels to look sharp and professional, size matters. The ideal video size for Instagram Reels is 1080 x 1920 pixels with a 9:16 aspect ratio. Record vertically to fit perfectly on smartphones.
Proper sizing enhances visual quality and ensures your videos are displayed clearly. This attention to detail can keep viewers engaged longer, making them more likely to watch your content to the end.
Tip 3: Add Text for Silent Watchers
Many viewers prefer watching videos without sound, so subtitles or on-screen text are essential. This text should be more than just descriptive — it should add value, emphasize points, and guide viewers through your narrative.
Keep these pointers in mind while adding text:
- Choose fonts and colors that stand out against your background yet are easy on the eyes.
- Position your text strategically to enhance understanding without blocking key visual elements. Think of the text as a silent narrator that enriches the viewer’s experience.
Tip 4: Use a Call to Action
A compelling call to action (CTA) can boost your Reels’ effectiveness. Guide your audience on what to do next — like, comment, share, or follow. CTAs create an interactive experience and encourage deeper engagement. Tailor your CTA to fit seamlessly into your content, making it feel like a natural part of the conversation rather than an interruption.
Tip 5: Boost Views with Strategic Links
Understanding the importance of links on Instagram can significantly amplify the reach and impact of your videos. While direct linking in Reels isn’t possible, using your bio link strategically can amplify its impact.
Here’s how to do it: Update your bio link to connect to your latest or most relevant content. Whether it’s a blog post, a new product page, or a special promotion, make sure it complements your Reel and drives your followers toward meaningful engagement. This tactic not only increases traffic but also supports your Reels in going viral by providing additional value to your audience.
Tip 6: Keep up With the Trend
Staying relevant on Instagram means riding the wave of current trends. Whether it’s a popular dance, a new song, or a viral challenge, incorporating these elements can significantly increase your visibility.
However, it’s important to infuse these trends with your unique twist to stand out. Analyze what’s capturing the public’s interest and adapt it to reflect your style and message. This blend of relevance and originality can catapult your reels into the spotlight.
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Tip 7: Do Fun Transitions
Elevate your Reels with slick transitions that keep eyes glued to the screen. Mastering techniques like the snap cut or jump cut can transform a simple video into a seamless visual journey.
Here’s how:
Step 1: Start by capturing several clips.
Step 2: Next, employ Instagram’s built-in timer and align tools to stitch these clips together flawlessly. Such polished transitions not only boost the professionalism of your content but also make your Reels irresistibly engaging.
Tip 8: Use Hashtags
Hashtags are important for making your Reels discoverable. They help the algorithm understand your content and ensure it reaches interested users. It’s a good idea to mix trending, niche-specific, and unique hashtags to maximize visibility and engagement. But, avoid overly popular hashtags that have a lot of competition, otherwise your content might get lost.
Tip 8: Craft a Captivating Cover
Your Reel’s cover image is the first thing users see. Make it eye-catching and representative of your content. A well-designed cover can attract more viewers and enhance your Reel’s appeal. Choose a still image or custom design that reflects your Reel’s essence. Ensure text and important elements are centered and visible.
Tip 9: Don’t Violate Community Guidelines
This one’s a no-brainer: play by the rules to stay in the game. Content that flouts Instagram’s Community Guidelines is a fast track to being shadowbanned or even permanently banned. Keep your Reels clean and compliant — no nudity, violence, or hate speech. Remember, staying within these boundaries doesn’t limit your creativity; it channels it towards content that’s not just safe but also shareable and capable of going viral responsibly.
Tip 10: Post at Peak Times
Timing is key. Publish your Reels when your audience is most active. Peak times can vary, but generally, early mornings, late afternoons, and evenings see higher traffic. Use Instagram Insights to find your followers’ active times and schedule your posts accordingly. Consistently posting during these windows can help maximize exposure and interaction, increasing the likelihood that your reels go viral.
Tip 11: Cross-Promote Your Reels
Leverage all your social platforms to amplify the reach of your reels. Share them on your Facebook, X, and even embed them in your blog posts. This cross-promotion not only increases the views but also directs traffic from various sources back to your Instagram profile. Each platform offers a unique audience, and cross-promotion ensures that no potential viewer misses out on your content.
Tip 12: Collaborate with Influencers
Teaming up with influencers can be a game-changer for your Instagram Reels. They already have a dedicated following that trusts their recommendations. And since their engagement levels are generally higher, adding them as collaborators to your posts gives you the upper hand to beat the algorithm and go viral.
If you haven’t worked with a content creator before or are totally new to this topic, we highly recommend reading our beginner’s guide to crafting a winning Instagram influencer marketing strategy.
The Influencer Marketing Factory
Finding the right match is a task that’s not only time-consuming but requires skill. A misstep here, like hiring a creator whose followers are mostly smoke and mirrors or whose values don’t align with your brand, could mean kissing your hard-earned cash goodbye.
For this reason, you should consider hiring an agency, such as The Influencer Marketing Factory, to handle this critical process on your behalf.
Opting for an agency like ours isn’t just a wise choice — it’s a stride toward improving your influencer marketing strategy. We bring to the table a wealth of experience, creative insights, and a proven track record of designing campaigns that are authentic, scalable, and rich in return on investment, spanning platforms from Instagram and TikTok to YouTube.
Why choose us? Here’s the breakdown:
- Deep-Rooted Industry Insights: Our extensive experience spans diverse niches — from beauty to gaming — arming us with the insight to craft campaigns that resonate deeply with your target audience.
- Results-Driven Strategies: Every campaign begins with a clear understanding of your key performance indicators. We pinpoint influencers who not only mirror your brand’s ethos but also amplify your goals, driving measurable outcomes.
- Efficiency That Saves Time: Our deep understanding of influencer marketing strips away the guesswork, freeing you up to concentrate on other pivotal areas of your business while we smooth out the intricacies of influencer collaborations.
- Skilled Negotiation: We handle the nitty-gritty of influencer contracts — from hashing out terms to finalizing the deal — ensuring every legal detail is buttoned up and every commitment is met with precision.
- Transparent Metrics: Utilizing cutting-edge tracking technologies, we offer you a clear window into the effectiveness of your influencer campaigns, ensuring every move is accountable and every result is transparent.
Interested in exploring more about how influencers can drive your brand forward? Read our guide on the “6 ways to generate leads with Instagram influencer marketing” for actionable insights that could transform your approach.
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Key Takeaway – How to Go Viral on Instagram Reels?
Going viral on Instagram Reels isn’t that hard. Just follow all the tips mentioned in this article, and you’ll be on the right track. And remember, the algorithm takes time to recognize engagement, so be patient. Don’t delete the reel if you don’t see results immediately.