Instagram video strategy, the EASY way.
In case you missed it, Adam Mosseri, Head of Instagram, posted a short IGTV video several weeks ago stating that Instagram recognizes the value in video content and is testing new features to support the creation and engagement with video content on Instagram. What he DID NOT say was that Instagram is moving away from photos on their platform, despite the rumours that quickly spread throughout the internet. Adam later confirmed that nothing is changing as of yet on his Twitter feed, although that did not alleviate the stress that so many small business owners felt.
What does Adam’s post mean for small businesses on Instagram? First, don’t panic! Nothing is changing on Instagram right away, you can still post photos and grow your ideal audience.
Second, Instagram has not officially made any changes yet. I know it can be hard to know, but try to wait until you hear announcements from reputable sources. I suggest following @mosseri and @instagramforbusiness on Instagram to get the REAL information from the people involved in the decisions.
Third, while photos are still a viable base for small businesses to grow their audiences on Instagram, we have seen a shift towards the use of video content as a promotion tool for a while now. If you have been hesitant to jump on the video trend, I get it and you are not alone. Did you know that you may already be including video content in your social media strategy and didn’t even know it?
When you think about video on Instagram, most people’s minds either jump for joy or cringe because they automatically think about Reels. Please keep in mind that Reels are just ONE of the video options available to you on Instagram, and sometimes not the best one for your brand.
There are currently five video formats available on Instagram. Yes you heard that right, 5 different ways to post videos that help increase your reach and grow your audience.
Instagram Stories. Most people don’t think about their stories as video content, but they are and are classified that way by the Instagram algorithm. According to Adam Mosseri himself, posting 2 stories per day will help to get you seen and grow your audience. Start small by reposting content you like, showing the behind the scenes of your day, or maybe an unboxing. Work your way up to showing your face and chatting directly to your audience.
Instagram Live videos. I know going live can feel scary, but hear me out. While some people feel comfort from pre-recorded videos, when you go live there is almost ZERO prep. Posting live videos means you don’t have to spend an hour or more filming take after take, editing everything together, and making it feel perfect. I suggest putting together a rough outline of what you will discuss and that’s it, just go live and with the flow.
IGTV. Did you know that you can post your Instagram Live videos as IGTV videos? This means you get two videos for the price (and time) of one! If you really aren’t comfortable going live, IGTV is a great first step. All you need to do is sit down with your phone and a tripod and you are good to go.
Short video posts in your feed. Many people forget that you can post videos just like photos, in your regular feed. These are great for how-to’s, tips and tricks, demonstrating the function of your products, and many others. Keep your video short and to the point, under 60 seconds, and post away.
Reels. Some people love them and many hate them, but it's hard to ignore the potential reach of posting reels for small businesses. Just start by finding a trending audio or song and filming your own interpretation of that trend. No need to dance or point if you don’t want to. I find reels between 7 and 15 seconds that are posted to entertain people, get the most reach and exposure for brands.
