Why Instagram Reels Are Better Than Pictures for Hospitality Businesses in 2024

One of my viral reels.

Instagram has undergone significant changes over the years, and as of 2024, short-form video content like Instagram Reels has solidified its place as a powerful marketing tool, especially for hospitality businesses. Here’s why Reels outperform static images and why they should be at the heart of your social media strategy.

1. Higher Engagement and Reach

Instagram Reels are consistently driving higher engagement rates than regular image posts. According to Hootsuite’s 2024 Social Media Benchmark Report, Reels see up to 2.5x more engagement than standard images. For businesses in hospitality, this means that Reels are more likely to be viewed, shared, and interacted with by potential guests.

For instance, my own account growth had slowed down immensely until I started incorporating more Reels into my strategy. However, it’s crucial to ensure your Reels are of high quality. If your content doesn’t resonate with your audience, it won’t achieve its full potential in terms of engagement and reach. Quality and relevance are key to maximising the impact of your Reels.

2. Dynamic Storytelling

Pictures are great for showing off the visual appeal of your property, but hospitality businesses are about experiences. Guests want to feel the atmosphere and immerse themselves in what you offer. With Reels, you can showcase the full experience: a time-lapse of the sunrise over your B&B, a tour of your beautifully decorated rooms, or a snippet of a guest enjoying breakfast in the garden.

In 2024, users are seeking more authentic, immersive content. According to a report by Sprout Social, 68% of consumers are more likely to book a stay after watching a short video of the property. Reels allow you to tell a story in ways that a static picture simply cannot.

3. Instagram Algorithm Favours Reels

Instagram’s algorithm in 2024 heavily favours Reels over other types of content. This is because Instagram is pushing video content as part of its competition with TikTok and YouTube Shorts. As a result, Instagram Reels are more likely to appear in the Explore feed, increasing your content’s organic reach. This gives hospitality businesses a unique opportunity to attract a broader audience organically. Posting engaging Reels can boost your visibility far beyond your existing followers.

4. Increased Viewer Retention

Viewers tend to spend more time on Reels than on static images. In 2024, users are spending an average of 30 minutes per day on Instagram, with 91% watching videos regularly. Reels keep users engaged longer by providing quick, snackable content that is easy to digest but still impactful.

5. Boosts Interaction and Comments

Reels generate more comments and interactions than images, which is critical for engagement. Hospitality businesses can use this to their advantage by sparking conversations around their offerings, responding to comments, and building a community. With Reels, you have more opportunities to engage your audience and drive conversations that could lead to bookings.

6. Virality and Trend Participation

Reels make it easy to tap into trending sounds, challenges, or hashtags, giving your content the chance to go viral. In 2024, viral Reels have helped businesses grow their audience by as much as 40.5% . B&Bs can use this to show off unique experiences, whether it’s capturing a cozy winter stay or highlighting a special summer package.

7. Cross-Promotion Opportunities

Another benefit of Reels is their shareability across multiple platforms. Reels can be shared on Facebook and other social channels, giving your content a broader reach and making it a versatile tool in your marketing arsenal .

Conclusion

For hospitality and B&B businesses, Instagram Reels in 2024 offer more engagement, reach, and storytelling potential compared to static images. With the platform’s algorithm prioritizing Reels, and their ability to engage viewers and boost interaction, it’s clear that Reels should be a key part of your social media strategy to attract guests and grow your business.

If you need help with your strategy or content creation contact me james@marketingchevaliers.com

or fill the form below: