You’ve put in the work. You’ve brainstormed a killer idea, filmed it perfectly, and spent hours editing it to perfection. You hit ‘post’… and then your Reel gets a handful of views. You’re stuck in the view count problem.
The problem isn’t your ideas; it’s a lack of strategy. The social media algorithm isn’t just about what you post, it’s about how you post.
The secret to getting more views on Instagram Reels isn’t luck or magic; it’s a few simple, tactical steps that can make a huge difference. This guide is your blueprint for success. We’ll walk you through 5 steps to increase your Reels views by creating better, more engaging content.
Step 1: Don’t Overlook the Basics
Before you get into fancy editing or complex strategies, you need to focus on the basics. No matter how good your content is, if the video quality is poor, people will scroll past it. Wiping off your camera before you start filming can increase the “quality” of your video.
The algorithm is designed to promote high-quality content. Even if your camera is expensive, a smudged lens can make your video look blurry and unprofessional, and that can lead to lower views.
By taking a few extra seconds to get the basics right, you’re setting yourself up for success and ensuring your video has a chance to be seen by more people.
Step 2: Use Hooks
The first second of your video is the most important part. On a platform with an endless scroll, you have less than a second to grab someone’s attention and convince them to keep watching. The secret is to use hooks. A good hook is the key to stopping the scroll. It tells the viewer what the video is about and why they should care.
Here are a few ways to use a hook to grab attention:
- Use movement: A quick, unexpected movement at the beginning of your video can grab attention.
- Use words: Use a powerful statement in your first few words to make people curious.
- Use a text pop-up: A text pop-up in the first second can clearly state the value of the video.
By using a powerful hook, you’re not just creating a video; you’re creating a piece of content that is designed to be seen and watched.
Step 3: Keep Attention
You’ve stopped the scroll with a killer hook. Now, the real work begins: you have to keep attention.
The social media algorithm rewards content that has a high watch time. When a user watches your video all the way through, it’s a strong signal to the algorithm that your content is valuable and should be shown to more people.
Here are a few tactics to keep attention:
- Pacing and Rhythm: Keep your video moving. Avoid long, drawn-out shots. Use quick cuts and transitions to keep the viewer engaged.
- Provide Value: Don’t just talk; provide value. Whether it’s a tip, a story, or a laugh, your video needs to be worth watching.
- Use Text and Visuals: Use text overlays to highlight key points and use visuals to keep the video interesting.
By focusing on keeping your audience’s attention, you’re not just making a video; you’re creating a piece of content that is optimized for watch time and designed to go viral.
Step 4: The Right Length of Video
You’ve probably heard that there’s a “magic length” for every video. Some people say 7 seconds, others say 15. The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Your goal with each video is to only make it as long as it needs to be, not any longer.
The algorithm loves watch time, and people are more likely to watch a video all the way through if it’s concise and to the point. Every extra second you add without providing value is a chance for the viewer to get bored and scroll away.
To determine the right length for each video, focus on your goal. What is the one thing you want your audience to get from this video? Focus on that one thing and cut everything else. By focusing on the right length of video, you’re creating a piece of content that is optimized for watch time and designed to go viral.
Step 5: Don’t Waste Precious Seconds
You’ve hooked them, and you’ve held their attention. Now, it’s time to seal the deal. The final step is to don’t waste precious seconds.
Every second in a video is a chance for a user to scroll away. Filler words, long pauses, and unnecessary repetition can ruin the flow of your video and cause your viewers to lose interest.
The key to a polished video is a ruthless edit. You should trim off the beginning and end of each clip you film. You should also cut out the breaths, uhhs, umms, and repeat words.
By taking a few extra minutes to trim your video, you’re creating a piece of content that is concise, professional, and optimized for watch time.
Conclusion: The Views Are Coming
You’ve made it to the end. The days of struggling for Reels views are officially over. You now have the blueprint for a Reels strategy that actually works.
You now know to start by not overlooking the basics. From there, you’ll use a hook to grab attention, and then you’ll keep that attention for as long as possible. You’ll make sure each video is the right length and that you don’t waste a single precious second.
The truth is, getting more views isn’t luck; it’s a few simple tweaks to your process. You have the knowledge. Now, it’s time to take action. Go out there, apply these 5 steps, and start getting the views you deserve.