Guest blog from Jacy Ellenico: Reels and what they mean for you. Plus 9 faceless reel ideas for the camera shy!
You want to create an Instagram Reel, but the thought of dancing, pointing, and lip-synching doesn't exactly appeal.
You're not alone.
Creating reels is one thing but dancing is quite another!
Video content is essential for the future of all social media, so if you are wondering if you should try them, my answer would be yes. That said, there are many ways you can create reels without the need to become a performing arts student.
Let's learn more about reels and what they mean for you.
What are reels?
Instagram rolled out reels in late 2020 in response to the growing TikTok short video content app. During the lockdown, TikTok grew in popularity due to many more online people finding success through dancing and diary-style content.
Early adopters of Instagram reels saw success using trending sounds, transitions, and valuable content. These accounts often saw remarkable growth in a short time.
For some time, the Instagram algorithm favoured and rewarded accounts using reels. Many users have seen success on reels weeks after posting due to the longevity of reel content on the platform, unlike graphics or images. Luckily, although video content is still prevalent, other content and reels are on a more even footing now.
Reels Strategy
Please don't feel under pressure to create video content for the sake of it. Trends are excellent when used correctly but can damage your account if not.
Here is how:
A reel with little relevance to your account, business goals, or brand personality can confuse your audience.
Alternatively, you could attract an audience/followers who will never purchase from you or engage further with your content.
Unengaged followers will indicate to the algorithm not to prioritise your content, which makes it harder to be seen by your ideal people.
Your overall content plan should include the reels you produce. It should reflect your personality and expertise while pertinent to your brand and desired client. Always keep your strategy and goals in mind when creating your reels, whether sharing your opinion, offering educational advice, or utilising a trend.
Top Reels Tips
High-quality videos are favoured. Enable high-quality uploads in Instagram settings (settings, account, data usage - swipe on upload at highest quality). Use suitable lighting. Natural light is best so try to film in the daytime, and a ring light will always be beneficial if you want to take it that step further.
Watch time is crucial. Keep it concise, create curiosity and use captions to engage your audience. Transitions are powerful to keep the audience watching.
Using a hook so the viewer knows what to expect immediately and keeps watching. A second hook, the first text in your caption, can also build curiosity in your viewers.
What works for others may not appeal to your audience, so test different reels ideas to learn more about what your followers enjoy and perhaps not so much.
Respond to all comments, and keep engagement high on your reel.
Remember, reels views can continue to rise a few weeks later, but views are only one metric, so don't obsess over them.
Ready to create reels?
Are you ready to create reels? Still don't want to show your face?
Don't worry. You don't have to. There are plenty of ways to create valuable, targeted, and entertaining reels, all without a dance routine.
Nine faceless reels ideas
A day in the life - document your day, and show some behind-the-scenes work.
Create a timelapse video of something you are working towards. It could be a sneak peek or a project for your client.
Use the awesome templates Canva has available to create an educational video.
Write ideas on a notebook or whiteboard, and show how you plan your work, a framework, or an idea.
Share a series of testimonials.
Use photos to inspire. Using a trending sound or the template option, you can make a fantastic reel just using pictures in your phone album in a matter of seconds. Using images with music can evoke emotion or nostalgia in your audience.
Share the business books you recommend.
Show your favourite business tools or apps.
Provide a case study, and show the transformation your client received from working with you.
Here is just one example of a faceless reel made from a template in Canva.
If you decide to create a reel using any of the ideas above, I would love to hear about it. You can find me over on Instagram @jacyellenico.
