Instagram teaches out to engage, engage, engage and engage some more. Not all accounts need to have tens of thousands or even hundreds of thousands of followers. They just need to be authentic, genuine and know their craft. We spoke to Riley the woman behind The Spilly Drinker, an avid beer lover and traveler. Check out her full interview below:
Rylie we like to kick things off with you telling us a little about yourself. Give us a little background on how the “The Spilly Drinker” came about.
RH: I found I had started posting way too much beer on my personal Instagram so I figured a dedicated page would be a good way to keep track of the beers I’ve drank, as well as share the beers I love with others. A friend helped me come up with the name based, on the fact that I spill nearly everything I drink. I was hesitant at first as I have never been someone to share much on social media, but I was pleasantly surprised with the positive response I received.
Why did you start The Spilly Drinker on Instagram as opposed to any other social media platform?
RH: Instagram is the only social media I regularly use, I like the simplicity and visual aspect of it being photo-focused.
We’d love to hear about how your passion for beer came about?
RH: Beer has been my drink of choice since I have been old enough to drink. The first craft beer I had was a Winter Ale from a local brewery in Vancouver. This beer opened up my eyes to the different styles and variations in beer. This made me intrigued to keep trying different beers. Additionally, lots of craft breweries started opening around my city over the past few years which has made it extremely easy to visit different breweries and try their beer selection.
What do you think is the most important quality for the influencer to possess?
RH: I think the most important quality is to be yourself and have fun with it. I like when Instagrammers incorporate their interests outside of beer to their posts. I think it allows people to build a more personal connection.
What advice would you give craft beer distilleries or beer companies looking to use the Instagram social media platform to grow their brand’s image?
RH: Showcase your products and engage! Personally I love to see what new beers are being released by different breweries and what events are going on. It is also important to engage with their followers. Like and comment on their posts and always respond to comments. This gives a friendlier, more inviting impression.
What is your stance on influencers being paid to post about brands? Should influencers be transparent regarding payment for posts?
RH: I think it is great that influencers can get paid to post about brands, but it is still important to stay genuine. Transparency is great, but at the same time may not be entirely necessary if they truly feel passionate about the brand/product they are promoting. Of course everyone wants to make some cash so I can’t blame influencers for taking up these opportunities. I am not going to un-follow someone who’s content I enjoy just because they post some sponsored content.
How do you think the rise of influencer accounts on Instagram has impacted on the way that people discover restaurants/beers/bars/food?
RH: I think it has had a positive impact for sure! I personally have learned about many restaurants and breweries from Instagram and regularly find myself seeking out beers that I have seen posted on Instagram. Instagram not only makes it easier for businesses to receive exposure but also customers to find them.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential for success?
RH: Be yourself, keep doing what you love, and everything will work out.
Do you get approached by a lot of brands that want you to promote their products? What is your protocol for dealing with those offers?
RH: I have been approached by a few brands – the first thing I do is look into the brand and the product to ensure it is something that I am genuinely interested in. I am happy to promote a product that I like and want my followers to know about, however I am not going to accept something that is not relevant to my interests.
What do you wish brands knew before approaching you on Instagram?
RH: Each Instagram post takes a lot of thought, effort and time to produce. Free products are great, but I do not like to feel pressured to post something immediately simply because it was sent to me for free. I also work full time as I’m sure most do, so it is not always easy to find time to create content. If I try a product and love it, I will absolutely feel compelled to promote it. I do greatly appreciate any brands that take the time to reach out to me. It is even better if they let me know why they chose to do so – this lets me know that they have actually taken the time to review my posts and see what I’m all about.
On a personal note, what are some of the most important things in your life?
RH: Balance and living a healthy lifestyle. Making time for family and friends, traveling, enjoying every day to the fullest and giving back whenever possible.
Anything else you’d like to share with the readers?
RH: Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me and thank you to Taste the Dram for sharing my thoughts and opinions! You can find me on Instagram @thespillydrinker! Come say hello 🙂
