Engagement on regular, in-feed posts has dropped by 44% since the introduction of Instagram Reels, according to a recent analysis of 81 million posts. Brands and influencers are feeling stressed out about how to quickly incorporate this feature into their content strategy in light of the recent decline in engagement. After all, Instagram Reels often seem to be the only way to get noticed on the app these days.

For this reason, let’s first investigate Instagram’s motivations in emphasising IG Reels to such a great degree. Obviously, we have TikTok, a competing social media platform, to thank for this. TikTok has more than a billion users, making it the most downloaded app in the world, and Instagram is adapting its algorithm to the growing popularity of video content in an effort to compete.

Although as a social media agency we have long advocated for the use of Instagram Reels and TikTok, we recognise that the recent unprecedented demand for video content has left many brands baffled as to how to implement and make the most of these tools for their account in a cost-effective and time-saving manner. In this article, we’ll go over five considerations for integrating Reels and TikTok into your social media campaign.

Determine the nine main points of your content

The first is the importance of maintaining uniformity across all channels and functions. One of the best ways to maintain cohesion as a brand or influencer is to identify your nine content pillars, or the topics that you will be posting about most frequently on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Consider them the equivalent of the tabs on a website.

Services, clients, team, social media tips, self-care tips, and more are some of the content pillars for our social media agency. Avoid posting anything on TikTok or Instagram, including Instagram Reels, that doesn’t fit within your predetermined content pillars.

Why try to attract people to your profile with information that doesn’t pertain to them? If a user enjoys your video, they can easily find more of your work by clicking on your profile. People are more likely to stick around if they find what they’re reading or watching to be in line with their expectations.

Keep up with the most recent viral videos on TikTok and Instagram

Afterward, you should follow currents. TikToks and Instagram Reels can be effectively promoted by using currently popular music and filters. This content’s widespread use increases the likelihood that users will stumble upon your videos.

Consuming content that is currently popular is the first step in creating content that is relevant. Spend some time each week scouring social media and making mental notes about what’s popular on platforms like Instagram and TikTok.

Reframe your perspective from that of a viewer to that of a content creator as you watch these clips. Which of these fads can you adapt for your company’s needs? How can you get your music heard by more people by capitalising on one of the most popular sounds right now?

As a brand or influencer, you need to be nimble to keep up with the latest developments on Instagram Reels and TikTok. Trends can last anywhere from a few months to a few days, so it’s important to capitalise on their widespread popularity as soon as possible.

Utilize Search Engine Optimization (SEO) for Social Media

Wait until you hear about the next statistic before concluding that the ease of discovery on TikTok and Instagram Reels has reached its maximum potential. Recently, Google’s Senior Vice President of Knowledge and Information, Prabhakar Raghavan, revealed that about 40% of young people no longer use Google Maps or Search to find information; instead, they turn to TikTok or Instagram. Believe us when we say that now is the time to begin incorporating social media SEO into your TikTok and Instagram strategy.

Use your time and energy wisely when creating content for social media

We recognise the effort required to integrate these components into your content strategy and we apologise in advance. And to that end, we have this word of advice: Put in smarter effort rather than more.

It’s best practise to make a lot of videos at once whenever possible. Making Instagram Reels and TikToks in bulk helps maintain a regular posting schedule and saves time.

Finally, if you lack the means or motivation to produce videos, what should you do? Join forces with people who have the clout to get the job done. We frequently utilise GRIN and other similar platforms to improve the efficiency of our influencer outreach efforts.

Assess data analytics

If you want to make the most of your TikTok and Instagram Reels, the last and most important step is to always go back to the numbers. At Homemade Social, we keep close tabs on our social media analytics to learn where we’re succeeding and where we can make changes.

Pay attention to the social media analytics and keep doing what works. Does one particular type of video seem to do better than the rest? If something isn’t connecting with your audience, try switching gears.

Final thoughts on TikTok vs. reels

If you’re interested in making the most of Instagram Reels and TikTok, we hope you’ll find this post useful. Check out Homemade Social’s free 30-Days of Reels Ideas, Instagram Reels & TikTok Bundle, ReelTok Course, or apply to have us manage your brand’s social media accounts if you’re ready to start using these features to incorporate into your content strategy.