Instagram videos are the most classic among a myriad of Instagram features. Short-form content, courtesy of Reels, has given way to shorter attention spans. For you, that means a never-ending quest to win the audience’s time. But we say longer videos still remains an undisputed winner when it comes to certain types of content. So, here how use Instagram videos to grow as a creator!
5 ways to use Instagram videos to grow as a creator
There are some creators who’ve unlocked the value of Instagram videos to magnify their visibility. We dug through them to find out what they are and how you can carve a space by leveraging them.
1.Time to display creativity
They say, “Time is your most prized possession.” It is the most precious gift you can give someone else. And Instagram videos does exactly that.
While Reels or Shorts push you to squeeze your ability into seconds, IG videos give you the time to put your best foot forward. You have the liberty to take your own sweet time.
So, pick topics that are extremely difficult to correctly convey in 90 seconds and make an video. Creators like Dolly Singh do it all the time.
2. Ideal for specific content types
Informative content is rendered ineffective when you’re constrained with time. It shines through when you give the audience the time to understand and process it. That’s why Instagram videos are the star when it comes to:
- Tutorials
- Q&A sessions
- Product reviews
- Brand recommendations
You can even use it to post long Live sessions you have saved. They do wonders when you are not feeling your most creative self but also want to engage with your audience.
3. Upload a periodic series
IGTV was iconic for their series. Since that’s been merged with Instagram videos, use them now. It is an excellent way to increase traffic to your profile.
Why? Even if the audience misses your first post, they may stumble upon another part of the series and then explore your page for the first one.
For this to work, you must upload parts of the series regularly. Create a schedule and then post accordingly. For example, every fortnight or every first Saturday of the month. So that your audience knows when to expect the next one.
4. Reuse existing video content
You might not like it, but it is possible that the people who follow you on YouTube do not follow you on Instagram. That means the content you created for one platform has not been seen by the audience of the other.
Use Instagram videos to repurpose that content. A tip here is to choose a content piece that has performed well on YouTube. Play around with its layout and aspect ratio, etc., and export it to Instagram.
Ta da! You just hit two birds with a stone.
5. The first 15-30 seconds are everything
No creator can ignore that viewers get bored. Fast.
As sad as it is, it is the current truth and the creators need to cater to this reality. Particularly when you’re creating longer videos on Instagram content. It means the first 15-30 seconds of a video are the most crucial.
They decide whether your audience will stay. The title may hook the viewer in, but it’s the first few seconds that get them excited about what’s in store and give them a reason to stay.
Be your biggest cheerleader on Instagram videos to grow as a creator
The last and the most important piece of advice is to be your biggest hype-man. Go have fun with those hashtags and descriptions. Go all out and promote your Instagram videos as you like.
How? You ask.
The best way is to create short teasers/trailers. Include here the most exciting bits of your video without giving too much away, and views will flood your way.
Another way is to engage with your followers via Stories. Get them excited about what’s in store for them, and tell them how hard you’ve worked to bring that video to life.
Remember to always be your biggest cheerleader (always)!
