Three years ago, I started my Instagram micro-blog, Radikal Rose Eats, as an outlet to share the new recipes I was trying during the pandemic lockdowns. I had no idea what content creation was or that I would eventually become an “influencer”. All I knew was that I wanted to have a consistent stream of posts, focusing on my quarantine creations, throwbacks from my travels, and restaurant reviews when “outside” reopened. However, as I delved deeper into the world of Instagram, I learned some valuable lessons.
Lesson 1: Posting consistently takes work
When I first started my micro-blog, I was excited to share my thoughts and experiences with others. However, I quickly realized that coming up with new content on a regular basis was not easy. I had to brainstorm ideas, write and edit posts, and find the right images to accompany them. I also had to make sure that my posts were engaging and resonated with my audience.
Over time, I developed a routine for creating and posting content. I would set aside time each week to brainstorm ideas and plan my posts. While I started off very ambitiously, aiming for six posts a week, as the usual rigours of life returned, I had to pare back and now aim for two posts a week.
Lesson 2: There is a strong community on Instagram
When I started Radikal Rose Eats, I didn’t imagine that so many people would be interested in what I had to share. However, as I continued posting consistently, I began to notice that I was attracting a following of like-minded individuals who shared my interests.
As my following grew, I started to engage with my audience more. I would ask for feedback, and even collaborate with other creators. Most of my interactions occur in my Direct Messages (DMs). Many people reach out to me for advice on where to eat or who to order from for various special occasions in their lives, they share when new places are opened, or a pleasant or not-so-pleasant experience they had.
There are times when I consider that food blogging is too time-consuming or expensive, however, it is my community that keeps me motivated to continue to explore and share the culinary landscape in Grenada.
Lesson 3: Micro-blogging on Instagram has created a new skill
When I first started Radikal Rose Eats, I had limited photography experience and zero video editing knowledge. However, over time, I have vastly improved my visual communication skills. Through my experience with micro-blogging, I have learned how to write concise and engaging captions, take high-quality photos and videos, and edit my content for maximum impact. These skills have not only helped me on Instagram but have also translated to other areas of my life, such as my professional work.
In conclusion, micro-blogging on Instagram has been a valuable learning experience for me. It has taught me the importance of consistency, the power of community, and the value of developing new skills. If you are considering starting a micro-blog on Instagram, I encourage you to give it a try. It may take some work, but the rewards are well worth it.
