Video Growth

How to get more views on Reels

By FollowBoosts TeamPublished 2026-08-04· 7 min read

The "200 view jail" is a real phenomenon. You spend hours filming and editing a Reel, only for it to flatline immediately. If you want to learn how to get more views on Instagram Reels, you have to understand how the initial testing phase works.

The 30-Minute Test Window

When you post a Reel, Instagram shows it to a small percentage of your most active followers. It measures their reaction. If they scroll past immediately, the Reel dies. If they watch it twice and send it to a friend, Instagram expands the audience.

Tactic 1: The Visual Hook

Audio hooks aren't enough because many users scroll with their sound off. You need a visual hook. Use bold, native Instagram text on the screen in the first frame that tells the viewer exactly what value they will get if they keep watching.

Tactic 2: The Loop Formula

The algorithm rewards replays heavily. Script your video so the final sentence flows seamlessly into the first sentence.

Example ending: "...and that is exactly..."
Example beginning: "...how you get more views on Reels!"

Tactic 3: Boost Your Baseline Audience

If you have a very small follower base, or your current followers are inactive (or bots), you will continually fail the initial test window. You need active followers to engage with the Reel immediately.

Using an organic promotion service like FollowBoosts ensures you have a baseline of real, interested humans following your account, giving your Reels the initial engagement spike they need to hit the Explore page.

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