Stop Reels trend-chasing: A strategy-first approach for small brands to attract real engagement
Reels are a growth machine — but only if you use them right. Here’s where most small brands go wrong:
1. Chasing trends without context. Copying a trending sound isn’t a strategy. If it doesn’t tie back to your brand or offer value, it’s noise.
2. Talking at people, not to them. Reels are intimate. Treat them like a FaceTime, not a billboard. Lower production, higher connection. This is especially true for niche communities, where authenticity drives follow-through.
3. Posting without a hook. You’ve got 2 seconds. Use them. Instagram’s creator education materials repeatedly stress the importance of front-loading your value. So start with a problem, a big claim, or a bold visual. Otherwise, viewers will swipe.
4. No strategy behind the content. If you’re not sure who the Reel is for or what action you want after, don’t post it yet. Reels should lead somewhere — to a follow, save, click, or convo.
Fix it by:
- Making your content audience-first, not trend-first
- Being clear on what you want each Reel to do
- Showing up like a person, not a brand asset
Keep reading
TikTok Pro Tip: Hide From Your Friends & Coworkers
TikTok Pro Tip: Hide From Your Friends & Coworkers
How to Train TikTok’s Algorithm to Work in Your Favor
How to Train TikTok’s Algorithm to Work in Your Favor
Threads vs X: Which One Should Your Brand Be On in 2025?
Threads vs X: Which One Should Your Brand Be On in 2025?
Your Guide to the Types of Facebook Ads
Your Guide to the Types of Facebook Ads
SEO Basics: 7 Easy Ways to Have Your Content Rank in Search
SEO Basics: 7 Easy Ways to Have Your Content Rank in Search
Recommended Photo Dimensions for Social Media 
Recommended Photo Dimensions for Social Media
Adapting to Change: X (formerly Twitter) Removes Headlines From Links to Articles_Removes_Headlines_From_Links_to_Articles/w=1920,quality=90,fit=scale-down)
Adapting to Change: X (formerly Twitter) Removes Headlines From Links to Articles
Social Media Strategy Tips For Indie Musicians
Social Media Strategy Tips For Indie Musicians
Fair Use Explained: How to Safely Use Copywrited Assets on Social Media
Fair Use Explained: How to Safely Use Copywrited Assets on Social Media
How to Create a Facebook Ad
How to Create a Facebook Ad
How to Grant Someone Access To Your YouTube Channel
How to Grant Someone Access To Your YouTube Channel
Why Startups Should Spend Money on Content Marketing
Why Startups Should Spend Money on Content Marketing
LinkedIn Targeting: Find your audience with LinkedIn Advertising
LinkedIn Targeting: Find your audience with LinkedIn Advertising
How to Give Your Social Media Manager Access to Your Company Facebook Page
How to Give Your Social Media Manager Access to Your Company Facebook Page
How to Add and Remove LinkedIn Page Admin Roles
How to Add and Remove LinkedIn Page Admin Roles
All blog posts ➡️
/w=3840,quality=90,fit=scale-down)
