• You need to grow your Instagram
  • But you want a shortcut for going viral on Reels

We’re here to share the secrets.

10 Best Hacks for Instagram Reels

Answer: Currently, the best hack/tip to grow on Instagram Reels is to use an engaging hook — also known as the first 3 seconds of your video.


1. Have a good Hook

Your Instagram Reel’s opening seconds (hook) make or break engagement. Capture attention instantly or risk losing viewers.

Here’s one:

  • Start with an intriguing teaser.
  • Use a storytelling arc to maintain interest.
  • Ensure the hook sets up the rest of your content perfectly.

2. Trendy Captions

Captions provide context and increase the discoverability of your content. Keep them concise but informative.

We used SendShort for this
  • Encourage interaction by asking questions or inviting comments.
  • Use relevant keywords for better searchability.
  • Incorporate hashtags within your caption.

3. Keep up with Trends

Jump ontrending formats with ease by using Instagram’s ready-made templates. They make content creation faster and more polished.

Browsing popular topics on Google Trends in Canada
Google Trends
  • Pick a template that suits your brand voice.
  • Use templates with trending audio for instant appeal.
  • Sync visuals and audio for a professional look.

4. Use Hashtags

Hashtags are vital for reaching new audiences on Instagram. They help your content get discovered within the app’s search and explore features.

  • Mix popular and niche hashtags for broader reach.
  • Create a branded hashtag for community building.
  • Use a hashtag manager to streamline your choices.

5. Share Reels to Stories

Increase the visibility of your Reels by sharing them on your Stories. This ensures more of your audience sees your content.

How to share an Instagram Reel to Story
  • Boost reach by cross-posting to Stories.
  • Add stickers or text to make it more interactive.
  • Engage followers who may miss it in their feed.

6. Include CTAs

Drive action by incorporating a strong call-to-action in your Reels. This guides viewers on what to do next, boosting interaction.

  • Place CTAs clearly at the end of your Reel.
  • Keep it concise and relevant to the content.
  • Use text overlays to reinforce the CTA.

7. Use Instagram’s Suite

Instagram favors content created using its in-app tools and trending sounds. This increases your chances of being promoted by the algorithm.

Instagram Business Suite website
business.instagram.com
  • Edit Reels directly within the app for better visibility.
  • Utilize trending audio tracks to increase engagement.
  • Look for tracks with a small upward arrow—they’re on the rise!

8. Change the Cover Photo

Your cover photo is the first thing people see.

Make it compelling to entice viewers to click and watch your Reel.

Infographic highlighting the cover of IG Reels
  • Design eye-catching covers with relevant imagery.
  • Add strategic keywords as text overlays.
  • Use tools like Canva for custom graphics.

9. Stay super Consistent

Consistency is key to building an engaged audience. Posting regularly helps establish a routine that your followers can rely on.

  • Find the best times to post by experimenting.
  • Use analytics tools to track and optimize posting times.
  • Schedule posts ahead to maintain a consistent flow.

10. Only Vertical Videos

Vertical videos are optimized for mobile viewing, which is how most users engage with Instagram. Prioritize this format to increase your chances of being featured.

Infographic highlighting the size of IG Reels

FAQ

1. How do I get better reels on Instagram?

Answer: To create better Instagram Reels, focus on using trending audio, engaging hooks, and visually appealing content.

2. What is the trick to get more views on a Reel?

Answer: The trick to get more views on a Reel is to use trending sounds.

Besides that, add add relevant hashtags, and post at peak times to increase your Reels’ visibility and reach. Engaging with your audience through comments and shares also boosts views.

3. Why aren’t my Instagram Reels doing well?

Answer: Your Reels might don’t do well because you’re not posting consistently (e.g. 1 → 3 times/day).

Other reasons might be: poor post timing, lack of trending content, or weak engagement with your audience. Analyze your metrics to adjust your strategy accordingly.


Thanks a lot for reading this,
David Ch
Head of the Editing Team at SendShort

About the author

David leads the editing team at SendShort. With this help, the team delivers the latest guides on using your favorite social media apps and creating short-form content.