How to test reels with non-followers on Instagram

Instagram is constantly offering content creators new opportunities to optimize content and play it out to their target groups in a targeted manner. With the new Trial Reels function, it is now even easier for professional accounts to test the performance of short videos before publication. But how exactly does this function work and how can you benefit from it? Find out everything you need to know in this article.

What are trial reels?

Trial Reels are a new feature that allows you to test your Instagram Reels with non-followers before sharing them with your entire audience. The feature has been tested for over a year with selected creators and is now available for all professional accounts.
The idea behind Trial Reels: Creators should be able to measure the engagement of their content without affecting their regular followers. These tests can provide valuable insights into which content resonates with a wider audience.
 

Key features of trial reels:

• Visibility: trial reels do not appear on your profile or in your followers' feed.
• Target group: They are only shown to non-followers.
• Data analysis: You receive insights into views, likes, comments and shares after 24 hours.

Advantages of trial reels

1. More control over content
With trial reels, you can experiment without worrying that a poorly performing post will negatively impact your brand or algorithm.
2. Make data-based decisions
Use the insights from the tests to decide which content you ultimately want to share. This allows you to maximize the success of your posts.
3. Better targeting
By showing your content to non-followers first, you get valuable feedback about their interests and can adjust your strategies accordingly.

How to post a trial reel on Instagram

Trial reels are easy to use and can be posted directly via the Instagram app. Follow these steps:

1. Create a reel: Upload your short video as usual via the Instagram app.
2. Activate the trial option: A new toggle called "Trial" appears on the last sharing screen. Activate this to share the reel as a test version.
3. Monitor performance: Once published, you can view performance data directly in your profile. This includes:
   - Views
   - Likes
   - Comments
   - Shares
4. Evaluate results: Adam Mosseri, Head of Instagram, recommends using likes per reach as an important ratio to evaluate performance.
5. Decide to share: If you like the results, you can share the reel with your entire audience. Alternatively, you can set the video to be shared automatically if it receives a lot of views within 72 hours.

Practical tips for the use of trial reels

- Experiment with trends
Use current Instagram trends such as popular sounds, hashtags or filters to increase your reach.

- Pay attention to the target group
Tailor your reel to the interests of your desired target group to receive authentic feedback.

- Optimize your content
Adjust the content of your reels based on the data obtained. This way, you can continuously achieve better results.

Why trial reels are an innovation

With Trial Reels, Instagram has created a function that offers content creators more flexibility and control. This is a perfect opportunity, especially for aspiring musicians, DJs or songwriters who want to experiment with new formats.
Take the chance to optimize your content and build your community.
Try Trial Reels today and maximize the potential of your content. If you have a professional account, this feature will be available to you in the coming weeks.