Reels, static or carousel? Here's what I think


A Little Bit of Content:

Tips for small business owners

This week, I want to answer the question "should I post a reel, static post, or carousel post? Which one does better?"

My take: There's no one answer.

When it comes to what TYPE of post to share on Instagram, I encourage a variety. OR, create the type that gets your message out there and that works for you. Don't feel forced to create something that you don't enjoy or find difficult.

I know Reels get all of the attention, and they really do work well for getting in front of NEW people and to build trust.

But static posts still have a place (sometimes, just because of ease), and carousels are wonderful to help establish expertise, provide education and connect.

If you're thinking "thanks Rebecca, this tells me nothing about what type of post to share" I get it - BUT! Go with me here, there's a reason I am not being specific.

I think you should share a variety of posts, different types, and monitor and analyze them.

Then, you can increase the frequency of a type that performs in a way you need it to.

Diversify your posts to reach more people

Not everyone watches Reels, but they seem to get pushed to more new people (those not following you) so there's potential for growth.

I also think video is such a great way to build relationships and trust (this is also why stories do so well in my opinion.)

Also, some of your followers love Reels.

You know how when you login, you probably see certain types of posts more than others? It's because YOU have a preference, so Instagram shares more of your preference.

Our audience is the same.

When I share a carousel or static post, and then share a reel, I've started to notice that the people who comment and like each type, aren't always the same.

When I share a reel, followers who I haven't seen interact with my account in a while, do.

Also, static posts? Single posts? They are still performing. Sometimes because of hashtags, sometimes because of the image itself or content, but don't get rid of those in your planning just because everyone says they aren't working. They still do - and can.

Plus, if a single image post is easier for you? It's better than posting nothing.

As for carousels, they tend to be some of my favourites for creating longer content or providing more details. I like having multiple images (especially for things like fashion!) but when they are text based I enjoy that I can slowly read the information (vs a caption on a Reel or text popping up and disappearing on a reel).

So there's my answer: It's to do more than one type of post.

Monitor and measure to see what's working for your account.

Decide the type based on your own goals and needs.

Are you unsure of what type of post to share or are you struggling with fitting a variety into your plan? Reply to this email and let me know your questions!

Rebecca

Ps: I'm thinking of putting together a LIVE, virtual content creation workshop. 2 hours, small group, but a working session where I would help teach and guide you to create a batch of content (I'm thinking about 21 pieces are possible, varied types but I would provide assistance along the way on Zoom). If this sounds of interest to you, let me know by replying or DMing me on Instagram. It would be kind of great to spend 2 hours and have over a month's worth of content done right?

Rebecca Stanisic

Content Strategist

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POV: Content Newsletter for entrepreneurs

POV: Content Newsletter is for solopreneurs and small business owners looking for calm, clarity and cheer in their content planning. This is going to give you actionable steps, thoughtful conversations and supportive pep talks to help you turn the page on overthinking your marketing, posting without capacity, and creating without clarity. It’s not about creating more, it’s about creating strategically and with intention in a way that is sustainable for your business and life. This isn't about how AI is going to save you time, it's about leaning into your storytelling, connection and thought leadership to create human-to-human content that converts and feels calm.

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