Why your reels and short-form vertical videos should be taken seriously.

In the dynamic world of social media, reels and short-form vertical videos have emerged as powerful tools for engaging audiences. These formats have rapidly gained popularity, thanks to platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels and Snapchat Spotlight. For businesses and content creators understanding the distinct value of these media types and treating them as separate entities from traditional posts can greatly enhance their social media strategy.

Optimised for Engagement

Reels and short-form vertical videos are specifically designed to capture attention quickly and effectively. Their brief and visually engaging format is perfect for today’s fast-paced digital consumers, who often scroll through content at speed. These videos are more likely to be viewed and shared, increasing visibility and engagement rates.

Algorithm Friendly

Social media algorithms favour highly engaging content. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok prioritise reels and videos in their users' feeds because these formats typically generate more interactions than standard posts. By segregating these videos from other types of content, creators can leverage algorithmic preferences to boost their overall account performance.

Enhances Content Discoverability

Platforms are increasingly developing dedicated spaces for short-form content. For instance, Instagram has a separate tab for Reels, and TikTok is built around a feed of short videos. By focusing on these formats, businesses can tap into these dedicated discovery engines, reaching wider and more diverse audiences.

Catering to User Preferences

Different content formats cater to different user preferences. Some users prefer the immersive and quick experience of reels and videos, while others might favour the detailed exploration possible with longer posts or articles. Separating these formats allows creators to tailor their approach to meet varied audience needs more effectively.

Enables Creative Freedom

Short-form videos offer unique creative opportunities that differ from static posts or longer content. They often involve music, quick transitions and visual effects that wouldn’t be as effective in other formats. Having a separate strategy for these videos allows creators to experiment and innovate, pushing the boundaries of what social media content can do.

Treating reels and short-form vertical videos as distinct from other social media posts is not just a tactical move; it’s a strategic necessity. This approach not only optimises content for algorithmic advantages and user engagement but also respects the unique characteristics and creative potential of these formats. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, embracing the individual strengths of different content types will be key to maximising your social media impact. By giving reels and short-form videos their own space, businesses can ensure that each piece of content performs optimally, resonating with the right audience in the most effective way.