Instagram Reels is a popular short-form video feature that was introduced in 2020.
Reels allow users to create entertaining 15-30-second videos set to audio and augmented with creative effects and editing.
For businesses, Reels present a major opportunity to reach new audiences and increase visibility. Reels are shown prominently in the Instagram feed and Explore page.
Scheduling Reels in advance provides some key advantages:
You can batch-create content rather than daily, saving time.
Scheduling allows you to plan and test different types of Reels content.
You can analyze peak engagement times for your audience and schedule Reels to post when visibility will be highest.
Here are the top free tools available to schedule Instagram Reels:
Later’s free plan allows you to schedule 1 Reel per month. It provides user-friendly Reel creation tools.
Planoly lets you schedule 10 Reels per month for free. It offers robust analytics on your Reels.
With Buffer’s free plan, you can schedule 10 Reels at once and collaborate with others.
Using the free scheduling tools is simple:
First, connect your Instagram account so the tool can post to your profile.
Use the Reel creation tools to upload content, and add effects, text, hashtags, and more.
Schedule your polished Reels to post whenever you want. The apps provide engagement analytics.
Follow these tips to maximize the impact of your scheduled Reels:
Use eye-catching visuals and popular music that will capture attention quickly.
Write strong captions using strategic hashtags and hooks.
Include a good mix of popular and niche hashtags so your Reels are discoverable.
Schedule Reels when your audience is most active, usually morning and evening.
Cross-promote great Reels on your Instagram feed and Stories.
FAQs
Q1: What are the main benefits of scheduling Reels?
A1: Key benefits are saving time, planning content more strategically, optimizing timing, and being able to test different types of Reels.
Q2: What creative elements make for effective Reels?
A2: Eye-catching visuals, popular music, clear and catchy captions, strategic hashtags, and creative effects help make Reels successful.
Q3: How often should I post scheduled Reels?
A3: 1-2 scheduled Reels per day is ideal for most business accounts. Check your analytics to find the optimal Reels frequency.
Q4: Can I pre-make Reels weeks in advance?
A4: You can schedule Reels weeks in advance but it’s best to keep content timely and relevant. Schedule 1-2 weeks out at most.
Q5: Should I engage with my audience when scheduling Reels?
A5: Definitely – be sure to set aside time daily to like comments, respond, and interact with your followers.