If you’ve ever scrolled Instagram or Facebook and seen short, catchy videos that grab your attention, you’ve already seen a reel. Reels are quick videos (usually 15–90 seconds) that show up in people’s feeds and have a big chance of being discovered by new audiences.
But here’s the thing: many new entrepreneurs feel nervous about making reels. They wonder:
- Do I have to dance?
- Do I need fancy video editing skills?
- What if nobody watches?
The good news is, you don’t have to be a tech expert or a performer to make reels that attract clients. In fact, reels are one of the simplest, most powerful tools for growing your business online — especially if you’re a brand-new coach or service provider.
This crash course will walk you through what reels are, why they matter, and how to create your first one step by step.
Step 1: What Are Reels and Why Do They Matter?
A reel is a short, vertical video you can share on Instagram or Facebook. They are designed to be fun, quick, and easy to watch.
Why do reels matter? Because they’re one of the best ways to reach people who don’t already follow you. Social media platforms want users to create reels, so they often push them out to larger audiences. That means more chances for new clients to discover you.
Example: Imagine you’re a new health coach. You make a 30-second reel showing “3 quick swaps for a healthier breakfast.” Someone who doesn’t follow you yet sees it, saves it, and clicks your profile to learn more. That person could become your next client.
Step 2: Decide What to Share in Your Reel
You don’t need to reinvent the wheel. A reel can be as simple as sharing:
- Tips: Example: “3 ways to feel less stressed in 5 minutes.”
- Behind the scenes: Show your workspace, your morning routine, or how you prepare for client calls.
- Quick tutorials: Teach something simple your ideal client would find helpful.
- Storytelling: Share why you started your business or a quick client win.
- Before and after: Show a transformation, whether it’s a project, design, or idea.
Tip: Keep your reels focused on your audience’s problems and goals. Ask yourself, “What would help someone today?”
Step 3: Keep It Simple
When starting out, don’t worry about special effects or trending sounds. A simple reel works just fine. All you need is:
- Your phone camera
- Decent lighting (a window with natural light works great)
- A clear message
For example, you could sit at your desk, press record, and say:
“Hi, I’m a new coach helping women set better goals. Here’s the #1 thing I tell my clients when they feel stuck…”
“Hi, I’m a new coach helping women set better goals. Here’s the #1 thing I tell my clients when they feel stuck…”
That’s it! Short, simple, and helpful.
Step 4: Add Text and Captions
Most people watch reels with the sound off, so adding text on the screen is important. This way, people can understand your message without listening.
You can add text right in Instagram or Facebook when you’re editing your reel. Highlight the main points, like:
- “3 Ways to Stay Focused”
- “Tip #1: Break tasks into 10-minute steps”
This makes your reel easier to watch and remember.
Step 5: Use Hooks to Grab Attention
A “hook” is the very first sentence or words people see. It should make them want to keep watching.
Examples of strong hooks:
- “Stop wasting time on this one mistake…”
- “3 secrets I wish I knew when I started my business…”
- “Here’s how to create a website in less than 10 minutes…”
If you can grab attention in the first 3 seconds, people are more likely to watch your reel all the way through.
Step 6: Post Consistently
One reel won’t change your business overnight. But posting consistently — even once or twice a week — builds momentum. The more you post, the more chances you have to reach new people.
Think of reels like fishing. Every time you cast your line, you increase your chance of catching a fish. If you only cast once, you may not catch anything. But if you keep casting (posting), eventually you’ll catch more clients.
Step 7: Don’t Worry About Being Perfect
Many entrepreneurs hold back because they don’t like how they look on camera, or they think their reels aren’t good enough. The truth? People don’t want perfection. They want connection.
Even if your reel is a little awkward, it can still reach the right person at the right time. And that’s what matters most.
Remember: done is better than perfect. The more reels you make, the better you’ll get.
Bonus: Pay Attention to What Works
After posting a few reels, check your insights (on Instagram or Facebook). Notice:
- Which reels got the most views?
- Which ones got the most comments or saves?
- What topics do people respond to most?
This helps you make more of what works and less of what doesn’t.
Final Thoughts: Reels Are Your Best Friend as a Beginner
Reels might seem intimidating at first, but they are one of the easiest, cheapest, and fastest ways to grow your online business. You don’t need special equipment, fancy editing, or thousands of followers to start.
If you focus on being helpful, showing up consistently, and keeping things simple, reels can connect you with the exact people who need your services.
Your first reel doesn’t need to be perfect — it just needs to be posted.
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