Grow Hotel Revenue: Encourage Customer Action in Social Media

While travel is one of the most active industries in the World Wide Web, there are a significant number of hospitality organizations, including hotels that feel like they’re being left behind by the fast changing internet social scene. This need not be a problem. With the right techniques, it becomes possible for hotel to keep up and even thrive in today’s environment. Below are some tips to improve hotel booking performance:

Think Social – just keep the conversion flowing. Make use of highly popular social sites like Facebook and Twitter to leverage on your friends and fans. While many customers don’t like overt advertising, they would appreciate your presence if you take the time to know their needs. Take the time to reply to their queries personally or hire someone to manage your social media presence. It can pay off over the long term.

Use Images – if the hotel is renowned for its ability to host unforgettable events, make sure to post pictures of these special occasions. Upload them on sites like Flickr, Facebook, and Multiply. If you get permission to tape videos of the said event, you can post it on YouTube as well.

Write Compelling Content – instead of using a formal tone of voice, most interactive sites online are characterized by friendly, conversation style. If you don’t have time to manage hotel rate strategy, inventory, and GDS channels together with social media initiatives at the same time, it might be a good idea to a young staff member to build your hotel’s brand online.

Give Freebies – don’t just inform readers about the developments in your hotel; let them take part in it. Offer discounts, gift certificates, and conduct contests to generate interest. Everyone likes free stuff especially if its travel related. Giving away free drinks at the hotel bar will be a successful initiative as well.

There are many other techniques to generate social media interest. Be innovative in your approach. The key to grow hotel revenue is to cope with the times. Leading the market is even possible with the right mix of techniques.