In the world of digital marketing, video formats are becoming increasingly important. In particular, Reels, the short video format from Instagram (now also available on Facebook), have become a powerful tool for brands, companies, and content creators. Originally introduced as a response to TikTok, Reels are now a central component of many social media strategies. This article highlights why Reels are so effective in digital marketing, how to use them strategically, and what best practices to consider.
1. What are Reels?
Instagram Reels are vertical short videos with a length of up to 90 seconds (formerly 15 to 60 seconds), which can be created and edited directly within the Instagram app. They offer a variety of creative options through:
Music and sound effects
Filters and augmented reality elements
Text overlays
Slow motion and cuts
Transitions and stickers
Reels appear in one's own feed, on the Reels discovery page, and in the Explore section, which can give them a high organic reach.
2. Why are Reels so important in Digital Marketing?
a) High Reach
Instagram actively promotes Reels within its algorithm. Users who regularly post Reels can significantly increase their organic visibility – even without paid advertising.
b) Strong User Engagement
Short, entertaining videos particularly attract younger target groups. They offer high interaction rates (likes, comments, shares, saves).
c) Storytelling Potential
Reels allow brand messages to be told in a creative and emotional way – ideal for Brand Building.
d) Competitiveness
Reels are now part of a modern content strategy. Those who do not use them lose presence against competitors.
3. Reels vs. Other Formats
Format | Duration | Purpose | Platform Distribution |
---|---|---|---|
Reels | 15–90 seconds | Reach, storytelling | Instagram, Facebook |
TikTok Videos | up to 10 minutes | Entertainment, virality | TikTok |
YouTube Shorts | up to 60 seconds | Visibility, branding | YouTube |
Story | 15 seconds (single clip) | Everyday, intimacy, timeliness | Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat |
Feed Post | unlimited | Information, evergreen | Instagram, Facebook |
Conclusion: Reels combine the advantages of TikTok videos (speed, entertainment) with the brand advantage of Instagram (existing community, integration into one's profile).
4. Use Cases for Reels in Digital Marketing
a) Product Presentations
Reels can stage new products emotionally – e.g., in 15 seconds with music, cuts, and a wow effect.
b) Behind-the-Scenes
Transparency builds trust. Show your team, processes, or everyday work life.
c) Tutorials & How-tos
Simple instructions, tricks, or tips in a compact form enhance value and promote engagement.
d) Customer Opinions & Testimonials
Show real users sharing their experiences – authentic and credible.
e) Entertainment & Trends
Use viral sounds, memes, or challenges to build reach in an entertaining way.
f) Events & Promotions
Reels are perfect for highlighting upcoming events, discounts, or campaigns.
5. Best Practices for Successful Reels
1. Capture Attention in the First 3 Seconds
Use a strong opening: question, hook, surprise – otherwise, users will swipe away.
2. Use Vertical Format & Fullscreen
Reels should be created in 9:16 format – optimized for smartphones.
3. Text Overlays & Subtitles
Many users watch without sound. Text increases understandability and accessibility.
4. Use Trendy Sounds
Using current music or audio trends can greatly enhance visibility.
5. Include a CTA
Whether "Link in Bio", "Comment Now" or "Save for Later" – Reels should include a call to action.
6. Reuse & Crosspost
Use Reels on TikTok, Facebook, or YouTube Shorts as well – paying attention to platform specifics.
6. Reels and the Algorithm
Instagram favors Reels that:
achieve high view numbers and watch time
are frequently liked, commented, or shared
contain original content (no reposts from TikTok with watermarks)
use relevant hashtags
are posted regularly (at least 2–3 times a week)
Tip: Publish Reels at times when your target audience is particularly active – this increases the likelihood of viral spread.
7. Reels as Part of the Content Strategy
Individual Reels are good, but a consistent Reels concept is better. This requires:
Content pillars (e.g., info, entertainment, brand)
Editorial plan with topics and publication dates
Recurring formats (e.g., "Friday Facts", "Monday Motivation")
CI-compliant design: logo, color world, typography
It is important to connect with other measures – such as email marketing, the website, or e-commerce.
8. Reels Ads: Reels as an Advertising Format
Since 2021, Reels can also be used as paid advertisements. The advantages:
Placement in the Reels feed of potential customers
Interactive functions remain (like, comment, share)
Targeting specific audiences like other Instagram Ads
Ideal for:
Building reach
App downloads
Product launches
Event promotions
Keep in mind: The style should appear organic – like a "normal" Reel and not like a classic commercial.
9. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Reels
The most important metrics for evaluating Reels in marketing are:
Views – How many times was the video viewed?
Watch Time – How long do users watch the Reel on average?
Engagement Rate – Sum of likes, shares, comments, saves
Follower Growth – Did the Reel bring in new followers?
Traffic & Conversions – Does the Reel lead to website visits or purchases?
Tip: Use Instagram Insights or external tools (e.g., Hootsuite, Later) for detailed analyses.
10. Challenges & Tips
❌ Mistake: Appearing Too Promotional
Users expect entertainment. Advertising should be subtly packaged – e.g., in the form of a storytelling reel.
❌ Mistake: No Recognizability
Pay attention to branding elements to link your Reels with your brand.
❌ Mistake: No Consistency
One viral reel doesn’t do much. What matters is regularity and strategy.
✅ Tip: Encourage Reactions
Ask questions, engage the community ("Your turn!", "What do you think?"), encourage interaction.
✅ Tip: Learn from Competitors
Observe successful creators or competitors – what works for them?
Conclusion: Reels – A Must-Have in Modern Marketing
Reels are more than just a trend – they are a powerful instrument in the digital marketing mix. With minimal effort, creative content with high reach can be produced. For businesses and brands, they provide the opportunity to present themselves as approachable, creative, and authentic.
Those who use Reels regularly and strategically benefit from:
more visibility
higher engagement
better customer loyalty
modern image
Whether fashion brand, craft business, or software company – Reels work in almost every industry. The prerequisite is a thoughtful concept, continuous implementation, and the willingness to engage with a dynamic format.