How to Get More Views on Reels

Introduction

Reels are the most powerful way to grow on Instagram right now. They reach new audiences, boost engagement, and help creators gain visibility beyond their followers. The Instagram algorithm favors short, engaging, and interactive videos, meaning even small creators can go viral with the right strategy.

If your Reels aren’t getting enough views, the problem isn’t just the algorithm. It’s usually about timing, quality, and interaction. This guide covers practical, actionable steps that actually work in 2025.

Create High-Performing Reels

The first few seconds of your Reel decide whether someone watches till the end or scrolls away. Focus on grabbing attention, maintaining momentum, and ending with impact.

1. Hook viewers immediately
Start strong with a visual hook or a bold statement in the first 3 seconds. This helps your content stand out while viewers are still deciding whether to stay.

2. Use trending audio and music
Look for sounds with an upward arrow next to the track name, this means the trend is rising. Using popular sounds helps the algorithm push your Reels to more feeds.

3. Add on-screen text
Many users scroll with sound off, so use text overlays or captions to highlight your key message. This keeps them engaged even without audio.

4. Keep it short and impactful
Shorter videos (under 20 seconds) tend to perform better because viewers are more likely to watch them till the end, signaling high value to the algorithm.

5. Use the “Collabs” feature
Post a shared Reel with another creator so it appears on both of your profiles. This exposes your content to an entirely new audience.

6. Post original content
Avoid reposting videos from other apps, especially with watermarks. Instagram prioritizes unique content that feels fresh and native to the platform.

Optimize Your Content and Strategy

Consistency and timing can determine how well your Reels perform. The more you post and interact, the more signals you send to the algorithm.

1. Post consistently
Aim for at least 3–5 Reels per week. Consistent posting helps the algorithm recognize you as an active creator, which boosts your chances of being recommended.

2. Use strategic hashtags
Mix broad hashtags like #reelsoftheday with niche-specific ones like #contentmarketingtips to balance reach and relevance.

3. Post at the right time
Use Instagram Insights to identify when your audience is most active. Posting right before these hours ensures early engagement, which pushes your Reel to more people.

4. Create carousel posts
Reels aren’t your only growth tool. Carousels increase the time users spend on your posts, improving your profile visibility. Use them for storytelling or mini tutorials.

5. Engage with your community
The algorithm rewards creators who actively engage. Reply to comments, respond to DMs, and interact with posts from your niche. This makes your account appear more active and valuable.

Leverage Interactive Features

Instagram rewards two-way engagement. Use its built-in interactive tools to keep your audience participating.

1. Use Story stickers
Polls, quizzes, and the “Add Yours” sticker encourage direct audience interaction and can drive more traffic to your Reels.

2. Go Live regularly
When you go live, your profile moves to the front of the Stories bar. Announce your live sessions ahead of time and use them to connect with followers in real time.

3. Feature user-generated content (UGC)
Reposting content from your followers builds trust and encourages others to tag you. This creates a ripple effect that increases visibility and brand loyalty.

Analyze and Refine Your Approach

Data is your best guide. Successful creators constantly test, measure, and adjust their strategy.

1. Monitor your insights
Check Instagram Insights weekly to find out which Reels performed best. Look for patterns in watch time, saves, and shares to understand what works for your audience.

2. Experiment and adapt
Try different formats: tutorials, storytelling, trends, or behind-the-scenes. Don’t copy others blindly. Use performance data to refine your own formula.

3. Focus on retention
Completion rate (how many viewers watch till the end) is one of the strongest indicators of a good Reel. Add movement, text, and scene changes to keep attention high.

4. Study high-performing creators
Observe how top influencers in your niche structure their Reels, from hook to caption. Don’t replicate their content, but learn their patterns of storytelling and engagement.

Use Influencer Marketing to Boost Reach

If you’re a brand or creator looking to grow faster, influencer collaborations can significantly amplify your visibility. Partnering with influencers allows your content to tap into their audience, bringing authentic reach and engagement.

For deeper insights on how to plan these partnerships effectively, read our detailed guide on Secrets of Influencer Marketing. It explains how brands and creators collaborate to maximize impact and grow together.

FAQs

1. Why are my Reels not getting views?
Low engagement may be due to inconsistent posting, poor hooks, or overused audio. Refresh your strategy with trending sounds and better storytelling.

2. How often should I post Reels?
Aim for 3–5 times per week. Consistency signals activity to the algorithm, which increases your visibility.

3. Do hashtags still help with Reels?
Yes. Using a mix of popular and niche hashtags helps your content appear in both broad and targeted searches.

4. What is the best time to post Reels?
Use Instagram Insights to find when your followers are most active. Typically, late evenings and weekends work best for most audiences.

5. Can I repost Reels from other platforms?
Avoid posting videos with watermarks from apps like TikTok. Instagram’s algorithm deprioritizes such content, limiting your reach.