Best Practices for Creating TikTok and Instagram Reels to Showcase Your Nonprofit Event

In the digital age, social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram are invaluable tools for nonprofits to engage with a wider audience, especially younger demographics. TikTok and Instagram Reels offer unique opportunities to create short, engaging videos that can effectively showcase your nonprofit events and initiatives. Here’s how to leverage these platforms with best practices for creating compelling content that resonates and inspires action.

1. Understand Your Platform

Both TikTok and Instagram Reels thrive on trends, music, and creative visuals. However, they cater to slightly different audiences and have unique features that can be used to a nonprofit's advantage:

  • TikTok is known for its viral trends, music, and effects. It's a space for creativity and humor, appealing mainly to Gen Z.

  • Instagram Reels offers a way to reach your existing Instagram audience with similar features to TikTok but benefits from integration with the broader Instagram ecosystem including Stories, IGTV, and your main feed.

2. Plan Your Content

Start with a clear goal: What do you want to achieve with your video? Are you aiming to increase awareness, encourage donations, or recruit volunteers? Your goal will dictate the kind of content you create. Some ideas include:

  • Behind-the-scenes footage of event preparations or a day at your organization.

  • Highlights from past events showcasing the impact and enjoyment.

  • Interviews or testimonials from participants, beneficiaries, or staff.

  • Call-to-action videos that encourage viewers to participate, donate, or spread the word.

3. Keep It Short and Engaging

The key to success on TikTok and Instagram Reels is to grab attention quickly. Your videos should be:

  • Concise: Aim for 15 to 30 seconds. Deliver your message quickly and clearly.

  • Visually appealing: Use high-quality video and engaging visuals. Bright colors, quick cuts, and dynamic shots can help maintain viewer interest.

  • On-trend: Utilize trending songs, hashtags, or video styles to increase the likelihood of your content being seen and shared.

4. Optimize for Silent Viewing

Many users scroll through TikTok and Instagram without sound. Make sure your videos are understandable without audio by using:

  • Captions: Add text overlays to explain what’s happening in the video.

  • Visual cues: Use signs, expressions, or text cards to convey your message visually.

5. Use Effective Hashtags

Hashtags are a powerful tool for increasing the reach of your content. Use a mix of:

  • Trending hashtags: To increase the visibility of your content.

  • Event-specific hashtags: To track posts related to specific events.

  • Brand hashtags: To build your nonprofit’s brand recognition.

6. Engage With Your Audience

Engagement doesn’t end after posting a video. Increase interaction by:

  • Responding to comments: This boosts engagement and fosters a community around your content.

  • Posting regularly: Keep your audience interested and engaged by maintaining a steady flow of content.

  • Encouraging user-generated content: Challenge your audience to create related content to spread your message further.

7. Measure Performance and Iterate

Use the built-in analytics tools on TikTok and Instagram to track the performance of your videos. Look at views, likes, shares, and comments to understand what works and what doesn’t. Use this data to refine your approach and improve future videos.

Conclusion

TikTok and Instagram Reels are powerful platforms for nonprofits looking to engage with a broader audience in a fun and meaningful way. By understanding the best practices of content creation on these platforms, you can effectively showcase your nonprofit events and campaigns, connect with supporters, and inspire action. Remember, the key is to be creative, authentic, and strategic with your messaging to make the most of these dynamic platforms.