How to Master Instagram Reels to Grow Your Salon Business

There’s no ifs, ands, or buts about it…video marketing is king right now. 

Many social media platforms have indicated that video will receive more organic reach, with Instagram saying outright that they will now prioritize video over photos. 

But if you’re like most stylists, the idea of stepping in front of the camera…yikes. 

So how do you make the most of video when you’re still a little camera-shy? 

Reels! 

Reels are short (think 60 seconds or less), fun videos that generate more engagement than traditional videos on Instagram. Meaning, they are a great way to increase awareness, build trust, showcase your brand, and ultimately increase revenue. 

But how do you get started? Let’s dig in!

What are Instagram reels?

According to Instagram, reels are short videos (60 seconds max) where you can add music, effects, or voiceovers. Think of them like TikTok videos built into your Instagram platform and accessible to everybody who follows you there.

For a long time, there was this idea that only mega influencers could post reels, but with the rise of video marketing, more and more accounts are using reels and finding massive success for one big reason: people today want to connect with other people. When you show up authentically on video, that attracts the clients you’re trying to bring into your business (a.k.a., target market) even more. 

How to make the perfect reel for your beauty business 

So if reels are so important, how do you make the perfect one?

We’ll be honest with you: you don’t. 

The amazing thing about the shift on social media from perfection to authenticity is that you can show up exactly as you are and create growth. So stop overanalyzing and let’s dive in! 

Keep your target market in mind

Make your reels for your dream guest. If you try to market to every–single-body on the platform, your message (and reel) will fall flat. Address a big concern your target market has. Show them how to master the style they crave. Show how amazing your favorite product line is at fixing their problems. 

Keep it simple

Have you ever heard the saying that before you walk out the door in the morning, you should remove one piece of jewelry or accessory? Same thing goes with your reels.

Reels come with a huge amount of customizations and it’s tempting to just load up your video with them, right? Instead, keep it simple until you discover which accents feel best to you and you’re comfortable using them.

Remember, your personal brand should be the star of the reel, not the filter. 

Make it valuable 

We already hit on target market, right? What can you show in your reel that adds value to their lives? If you’re targeting women with natural texture, show how they can protect their curls while they sleep. If vivids are your thing, share your top tips for keeping color bright between visits. Love to do men’s cuts? Introduce your followers to your top shower-style-and-go look that helps them get out the door fast. 

It’s all about what value you give to your target market, friends. Make your reel worth their time. 

If you want to dig deeper into how to master Instagram reels in 2022, we’ve got a little surprise for you…Instagram coach Brock Johnson is kicking off our Social Media Series workshops with an in-depth, Thrivers’ only deep dive into reels on May 9, 2022! 

Not a Thriver yet? Enroll here and save your spot for our Social Media Series workshops, now!