Every destination today is aware of the power that social media has and its ability to take awareness to the next level, but how can you best utilize this vast technology for your specific goals? Social media is an ever-changing entity, which is why destinations should look at each platform’s value in relation to their business’s marketing objectives and then formulate strategies accordingly.
It is an exciting time for innovation in the communications field, and travel and social media public relations firms generally agree that there are some platforms that destinations should be focusing on more than others because of the potential to utilize alluring images.
Following are four pointers to keep in mind when utilizing social media in luxury and lifestyle PR:
1. Visually Enticing Social Media
People say that a picture is worth a thousand words, and in travel, that could not be truer. In order to market your destination, and ultimately the overall experience it can offer, images are pivotal to attracting your target market.
Instead of trying to employ every form of social media that exists, consider focusing on Instagram and Pinterest. These tools will communicate the compelling qualities of your destination or property to consumers quickly and much more effectively than the 140 characters that Twitter allows.
2. Community Centered
Destinations should also think about concentrating their efforts on building a social media community. Facebook is by far the most effective platform for this type of strategy. Consumers of all ages value the opinions of their Facebook friends, which is why a strong presence is key here. Frequently post eye-catching videos, images, and stories on your Facebook page to engage in the social media conversation and build community. As people start to share your content on their own pages, the potential exposure is limitless.
3. Hashtags Rule This Sphere
When you are trying to create online communities and entice consumers with mesmerizing images mine the relevant hashtags. Such hashtags as #hotelview, #travelingram, and #travelthursday will help your posts to get noticed in a sea of newsfeeds and searches.
Your Instagrams will not only be easier for consumers to discover, but will also become part of that hashtags community. The image, and your destination, can be linked to whatever hashtag fits your strategy best. Do no underestimate the attention that a well thought out hashtag can bring you.
4. Monitor Social Media in the Future
As social media continues to evolve and more channels become available, destinations should continue to measure them against their marketing strategies. By putting your strategy first, you will be able to sift through the shiny new platforms that present themselves to find the ones that work best for your destination.