Is a tourism brand that isn’t active on social media even a tourism brand? Never underestimate the importance of social media.
Once upon a time, social media used to be a fairly precarious place for businesses. There were many unknowns, uncertainties, and a fair amount of mystery around what companies could even get from being active on social media.
But those days are long in the rearview mirror. Today, having a presence on social media is an absolute must for all businesses, especially for those existing within the competitive world of tourism.
If you, however, are one of those brands that are wondering if it’s even worth your time being on social media, we’ve got some news (and harsh realities) for you. Now, more than ever before, social media is critical for tourism brands trying to reach potential travellers, influencers, and collaborators. Without it, you’ll simply be left in the digital dust.
Let’s take a look at five reasons why social media is more critical than ever before and discover the true importance of social media.
1. Your competitors are on social media
There’s a reason we’ve put this at number one. If you want to be competitive against your competitors, then you have to compete. You may be thinking: we don’t need social media because our offline and traditional marketing is so strong. Well, sorry to be blunt, but you’re so very wrong.
Sure, your offline and traditional marketing may very well be strong, but why would you avoid so many more potential customers that exist on social media? As the world gets closer to some level of post-COVID normalcy (whatever that may look like), now is the time where you need to be connecting with people online. If you don’t do it, your competitors will.
2. Social media allows you to build a community around your brand
You may like the word of mouth your tourism brand gets at the moment, but it’s absolutely nothing compared to what you’ll get on social media. It’s simply so much easier for people to share your content, recommend you to friends, and engage with you on social media than it is in the “real” world.
If you haven’t looked into it already, Facebook groups are a fantastic way to start building a community around your brand. It’s a simple way for your followers to interact, share ideas, and engage with your brand, and make your brand feel more authentic.
3. People will expect you to be on social media
Where do you think people look for businesses and brands they can trust nowadays? That’s right, social media. Social media has become such a part of our day-to-day lives that it’s a bit of a red flag when businesses aren’t active. People will look to social media for reviews, customer service, and to interact with you. If you’re not active on social media, they’re likely to turn to someone who is.
4. Reach people you simply can’t reach offline
This should come as no surprise, but social media allows you to connect with people all around the world. What’s the best part? It costs you almost nothing. Paid advertising aside, social media is mostly free, except for your time and effort. There has simply never been a more cost-effective way in which to connect with people.
5. Increase your website traffic
For most tourism brands, the goal online is pretty simple: get as many visitors to your website as humanly possible. You may have a fantastic blog or a host of great travel guides on your website, but how do you expect people to find you without social media? Sure, it’s possible, but it’s a lot of time, effort, and money.
Social media allows you to share your content easily, create a community around your content, and turn your followers into brand advocates.
