[FAQ]

I’m trying to get smarter about analyzing my Reels performance and I feel like I’m focusing on the wrong things. It’s easy to get obsessed with the view count, but I know that doesn’t tell the whole story.

I want to understand what the algorithm really cares about. When you’re looking at your analytics, what’s the one metric you consider the most important signal of a successful Reel? Is it total watch time, audience retention, shares, saves, or something else entirely?

Trying to figure out what numbers actually lead to growth and better reach. Curious to hear what you all prioritize.

[Jeff Bullas]

Looking past vanity metrics is the first step to truly understanding performance.

Short Answer: While there is no single magic number, the two most important metrics for your video content are average watch time and the total number of shares.

The algorithm’s entire job is to predict what video a user will watch all the way through and find valuable enough to endorse, which is exactly what those two metrics measure.

You should see views and likes as a result of a good Reel, not the cause of it. The algorithm prioritises videos that hold attention, so your average watch time is critical. If you can keep people watching past the first three seconds and all the way to the end, you’re sending a massive signal of value. An even stronger signal is when your ‘Plays’ are higher than your ‘Accounts Reached’, as this indicates people are re-watching your video. The second key metric is Shares, as this is an active endorsement from a viewer and the most powerful form of social proof. After those two, you should look at Saves and Comments as strong secondary metrics. When analysing your content, find the videos with the highest watch time and shares, and make more content like that.

Cheers,

Jeff

[Author]

Posts