How to Use Reels & TikToks to Boost Your Social Media

The Cosmetologist's Must-Have Guide 

Beauty pros, let’s get reel.

Nope, that’s no typo, we’re talkin’ reels and TikToks today, and we don’t think you’re going to want to miss out on this one.

Short-form video content is a huge topic among the cosmetology community right now, especially when it comes to apps like Instagram and TikTok that are prioritizing (or in TikToks’s case, entirely based on) short, sweet, and quippy videos that run anywhere from 15-60 seconds.

We know what you’re thinking. “How could something so short be so damn important?”

Well, because short-form video content is what consumers on social media want, and further, this type of content is becoming the algorithmic focus of your social media marketing apps.

 In other words, reels and TikToks are center stage and they’re what people are looking for—if you can dive in head first, you can garner a whole bunch of benefits (some of which we talked about before in our previous blog that covers why TikToks and Reels are a must for cosmetologists).

You see where we’re going with this. Video content like this is important—so it’s crucial you start making your own.

Where to begin, though?

We got you, beauty pro.

Read below for a little kickstart that can help you get going on creating that awesome short-form video content we know you’re capable of.

How to Use Reels & TikToks to Your Advantage: Upping Your Social Media Strategy 

Don't Sweat the Small Stuff 

First things first, don’t get tied up with creating the most perfect reel or TikTok ever.

The fun part about this type of content is that it can be anything you want it to be—quick and quippy, fast and fun, cinematic and inspiring.

You’re in control of the vibe, so don’t sweat the small stuff and have a great time learning how to create a new type of content.

Stay Up to Date on Trends (& Participate!)

The great thing about this type of content is that something new is trending every day.

Instead of letting this overwhelm you, get excited about the endless supply of inspiration—then, take part!

We’re not saying your entire video content plan has to be centered around the hottest trends, but this type of ever-changing content can be hugely helpful when it comes to getting your own creative juices flowing.

Add Audio, Music, or Both 

When it comes to really getting attention with short clips like these, you’ll want to make sure you’re putting together something dynamic.

That doesn’t have to mean stunning 4k-quality video or incredible editing, but it definitely means adding sound, music, or audio of some kind to give your video content a more well-rounded, attention-grabbing feel.

Don't Forget Text 

Your video clips don’t have to speak for themselves.

Reels are reely (catch that pun?) short, so adding a little context can take your video clips even further.

What we’re trying to say is, don’t worry about having a super cinematic, professionally edited reel or TikTok—these are fast, casual, and fun!

Have Fun & Let Your Brand's Personality Shine Through 

If you’re not having fun, you’re not doing it right.

Reels and TikToks might be a little stressful when you first start making them, but they can be a total blast if you lean into having fun, being you, and dropping brand ego at the door.

This type of content is all about giving your viewers a peek into your brand and personality—make jokes, capitalize on trends, get quirky.

Above all, be you and don’t be afraid to let your branding shine through.

Get the Whole Staff In On It 

This type of video content can be a blast, so get the whole staff in on it.

You might envision content creation as you sitting in front of a phone talking to the camera—but it doesn’t have to be that.

Make it fun, make it dynamic, and make it involved.

When it comes to reels and TikToks, the more collaboration the better.

Switch Up Your (Relevant) Topics 

If you’re a hairstylist, you don’t just have to post about the top ten styles or tips and tricks—you can switch up topics to cover a huge variety of things, just make sure they’re relevant to your brand.

Want to poke a little fun at your own job?

Make a reel about it.

Want to make jokes about stereotypical clientele (in a classy, funny way)?

Time to create a TikTok.

You can create all kinds of short clips that get attention without posting about the same exact topic every single day.

Do Your Homework 

You’ll never know what’s trending and what’s getting attention if you’re not dialed in.

No, you definitely don’t have to be on your phone 24/7, but it can be helpful to allot a little time each day for a good scroll through relevant reel topics.

Trust us, a few minutes a day will open your eyes to a ton of creative ideas, trends, and tips!

Practice Makes Perfect, So Get Started 

The adage is true—practice makes perfect.

Even if your first reel or TikTok isn’t totally perfect, that doesn’t mean you should throw in the towel.

Get comfortable with discomfort—get comfortable with trying something new!

The fact of the matter is, this type of video content is becoming more and more crucial for businesses on Instagram and TikTok, so starting now could give you an enormous leg up and it continually becomes more important for your social media marketing strategy.

Social media marketing doesn’t need to be a time suck or a buzzkill—quick, fun, effective reels and TikToks can make an enormous impact on your strategy (and TBH, once you get the hang of them, they don’t take long to compose).

Want to make sure you never miss a beat when it comes to must-try social media strategy?

 Subscribe right here, right now to Elite Beauty Society for an email alert when we post tips, tricks, and helpful blogs!