The Role of Social Media in the Travel Industry
Just like it has in other industries, social media has had a sizable impact on the travel industry. It has completely redefined the manner in which people travel and the way they interact with various aspects of the tourism industry.
According to a recent study, nearly half of all travelers discover new destinations through social media and online reviews.
Another survey found that 93% of millennials regard social media as an important consideration when planning a holiday. In fact, for many people, travel decisions are influenced by posts from their friends and family on social media.
Social media campaigns can provide immense benefits for a business if executed correctly and they also help companies attract new customers. Social media campaigns also encourage people who may not have traveled to certain locations before to do so now.
This type of campaigns allows brands to create content that is timely and relevant to their target audience. For instance, information could be posted about local events or festivals while also advertising special deals and discounts that are available for limited time periods.
Benefits of a Successful Social Media Campaign
A large percentage of the U.S. population uses social media on a day-to-day basis, and that number is only growing. With this in mind, it’s no wonder that the travel industry has taken note and shifted its marketing efforts toward social media campaigns in order to attract customers. A well-conceived social media campaign can be an effective way for a travel company to increase its brand awareness, engage customers and promote products or services.
A successful social media campaign can bring many benefits to a business. First, it helps brands foster relationships with their audience and connect with potential clients by sharing photos and stories that reflect the company’s personality. It also allows companies to deliver customer service and gather customer feedback in real time.
Effective social media marketing requires the company’s branding to be consistent across all platforms, so there is a seamless user experience regardless of how the customer comes in contact with the brand. It also requires an understanding of how each platform can be used differently to reach customers.
The goal is for the campaign to generate buzz around the product or service being promoted and to create engagement between the company and its customers (potential and existing). By asking customers to submit photos or comments using specific hashtags, companies are able to get feedback on their products and services while also receiving free advertising from their customers who share stories of their experiences with friends and family. This content helps build credibility for a company’s
Embracing Social Media in the Travel Industry
Social media has revolutionized the way we communicate with each other, and in many ways it has changed how society functions. Platforms like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram have become an integral part of our lives; so much so that they’re now being used by companies to promote products or services. The travel industry is no different as social media has been identified as a means of reaching potential customers effectively.
According to Market Watch, more than half (51%) of all travelers use social media platforms when planning their trips. A possible explanation for this is that travelers are looking for recommendations from friends and family members who have been there themselves, and social networks provide an ideal place to ask questions or seek advice about where you should stay or what attractions are worth visiting during your next vacation.
In addition, many companies offer deals exclusively through their social media channels that aren’t available anywhere else online.
As Co-CEO at 5W Public Relations, Dara Busch oversees 5W’s Consumer Practice, which includes Travel & Entertainment, Apparel & Accessories, Non-Profits, Home & Housewares, Health & Wellness, Mom & Baby, Beauty & Grooming, and Consumer Packaged Goods.