Instagram’s recent introduction of the ‘Trial Reels’ feature has inadvertently become a powerful growth tool for creators aiming to expand their follower base. Originally designed to allow users to test new content among non-followers and decide on its broader release based on feedback, many creators are now repurposing their most engaging existing videos as Trial Reels.

Creator’s innovation on the platform

Trial Reels was launched to be an A/B testing method to see which reels perform the best. However, creators use it to reintroduce old videos to non-followers who discovered their content. This strategy has led to significant increases in followers; for instance, Instagram creator @chelsea_explains attributed her rapid growth to 450,000 followers in two months to this method.

Instagram appears to support this innovative use of Trial Reels. Head of Instagram, Adam Mosseri, has highlighted key metrics such as watch time, likes and shares as crucial for content ranking, suggesting that the platform values high engagement regardless of the content’s originality.

More from Instagram

Beyond Trial Reels, Instagram is actively pursuing strategies to attract creators from rival platforms like TikTok. Notably, the company is offering substantial financial incentives, with bonuses ranging from $10,000 to $50,000 per month, to encourage creators to post Reels exclusively on Instagram. This initiative is part of Meta’s broader Breakthrough Bonus program, which aims to boost engagement and content creation on its platforms.

For creators looking to capitalize on these developments, it’s essential to focus on producing high-quality, engaging content tailored specifically for Instagram Reels. Avoiding recycled content from other platforms, especially those with visible watermarks, can enhance discoverability, as Instagram tends to deprioritize such posts.

By leveraging features like Trial Reels and adhering to Instagram’s content best practices, creators can effectively grow their audience and increase engagement on the platform.