You should get more views

Do you ever wonder how some people get five, 10, 100 thousand views+ on their videos when they have significantly fewer followers? You’re not alone. Virality from Instagram Reels and TikToks is a confusing beast. If you’re new to making videos for social, and need >> more of a How To, this article << is probably better suited for you. However, if you’ve gotten your toes wet, but are looking for better reach as a creator, you’ve come to the right place. Here are some technical, tangible things to mind to get (many) more views. 

Instagram Reel-specific:

Optimize video length: on Instagram Reels, aim for 15-30 seconds. Shorter videos are more likely to retain viewers’ attention.
Use eye-catching thumbnails: Choose an attention-grabbing thumbnail image that accurately represents your video. It should entice users to click and watch.
Be sure to use closed captioning: 75% of videos are watched without sound.
Use the ‘Reel’ effects: Instagram offers a range of effects specifically for Reels. Experiment with these effects, as they can make your content stand out and encourage users to engage. Instagram clearly favors their own tools.
Leverage Instagram’s music library: Instagram has an extensive music library. Use popular or trending tracks in your videos to tap into existing user interest.
Properly use trending instagram sounds: >> Here’s our easy How To. <<
Lip sync accurately: If you’re lip-syncing to a song or audio, make sure your lip sync is accurate and well-timed. This attention to detail can enhance the overall quality of your video. More likes, shares and saves directly translates to views in the algorithm. 
Utilize Instagram Insights: Instagram provides insights into your content’s performance. Pay attention to which types of content and posting times generate the most engagement, and adjust your strategy accordingly. Again, they give you more info with *their* insights than third parties can, even if third parties’ are easier to understand. 
Double share: Use the collab feature to get the brand or another creator to add your video to their grid, and be sure to share your Reel to your stories, causing more clicks will lead directly to more views. 
Explore the Explore Page: If your video gets featured on Instagram’s Explore page, it can significantly boost views. Use relevant hashtags and engage with trending content to increase your chances of being featured. If you show love, you’ll receive love. 

TikTok-specific:

Optimize video length: Keep your videos short and sweet. On TikTok, aim for 20-35 seconds.
TikTok hashtag challenges: Create your own branded hashtag challenge and encourage users to participate. TikTok users love challenges, and this can generate a lot of user-generated content around your brand or niche.
Utilize TikTok’s Sound Library: TikTok also has an extensive library of sounds and music. Choose sounds that are trending or fit well with your content to increase its discoverability.
Record your own voice overs: Yes, we know that this contradicts the above… but either completely unique or trending are the way to go, the in-between gets lost in the social sea. It’s neither personal or popular.  
Engage with the TikTok Community: Interact with other TikTok users by liking, commenting, and sharing their content. Engaging with the community can lead to reciprocal interactions and increased visibility. 
Consistent video style: Establish a unique and consistent video style. Whether it’s your editing style, use of effects, or overall theme, having a recognizable style can make your content more memorable. If people pause and watch your whole video, the next time they see something from you they’ll do the same. This will increase chances of viral engagement. 
TikTok Analytics: TikTok offers a Pro account with access to analytics. Use these insights to identify trends in your content’s performance, including watch time, engagement, and audience demographics.
TikTok Duets and Stitches: Encourage users to duet or stitch your videos. This can create a chain reaction of user-generated content and expand your reach within the TikTok community.
Optimize Video Descriptions: Craft engaging video descriptions that provide context, tease the content, and include relevant hashtags. TikTok’s search algorithm relies heavily on these elements.