Meta Prioritizes Reels; Desktop Creation Methods Detailed

Meta Platforms, the parent company overseeing Facebook and Instagram, has significantly prioritized Reels. According to Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, Reels is currently the company's fastest-growing content format.

Facebook Reels typically allow content up to 30 seconds in length. Some users may have access to create and publish Facebook Reels up to 60 seconds, which is the current maximum length for Instagram Reels.

Desktop creation of Reels for Facebook and Instagram is possible using an online video editing tool. One suggested workflow involves selecting clips from past Facebook Live broadcasts. Users can upload longer videos and choose specific clips, or pre-clip content before uploading. This process includes selecting a 9:16 template, replacing media and adjusting text, then downloading the final video in 1080p.

Alternatively, users can create Reels using stock video assets available within the editing tool. The workflow for stock video is similar: choose a 9:16 template, search for and replace stock video clips, edit text, and download in 1080p. After downloading, the video should be uploaded to a cloud storage service like Dropbox, Google Drive, or iCloud for easy access on a mobile device.

From the mobile device, users can open Facebook Reels (on a personal profile, business page, or group), select the prepared file, add effects (FX), and publish. The inclusion of relevant hashtags is recommended as they can contribute to increased organic reach on Facebook.

Currently, direct scheduling of Reels is not supported on either Facebook or Instagram. While Instagram allows users to create and save Reels as drafts for later manual publication, this drafts feature is not yet available for Facebook Reels. Some third-party tools may assist with parts of the scheduling process, but full automation for publishing remains unavailable, requiring manual upload.

Content ideas for Reels include repurposing evergreen content, answering frequently asked questions, showcasing a workspace, before-and-after transformations, micro tips, how-to guides, unboxings, trend participation, national or international holiday themes, passion project introductions, personal insights, product showcases, behind-the-scenes glimpses, a day in the life segments, sneak peeks, employee spotlights, customer testimonials, micro case studies, and listicles.

According to Mari Smith FB Marketing, these methods facilitate efficient Reel creation.