The digital world is the place where your guests are spending most of their time
The modern traveler is someone who is used to being connected to technology in one way or another everywhere they go. Not only do they believe in the advantages of digital technology but they also know how to use it in a number of sophisticated ways. Even those who have been slower getting on board, baby boomers for instance, are more or less being forced in the same direction. It was reported last year that 57% of hotel bookings are now occurring online.
It’s an overwhelming number which indicates the risk hotels run if they aren’t employing a digital marketing strategy to attract guests.
Hotels must adapt to the technical demands of their customers – including going mobile.
More than 50% of travelers who book digitally now do so from a mobile device, so it’s imperative to ensure your content is optimized for mobile and smartphones.
Digital media helps for both guest and hotel
One of the reasons people embrace technology and online resource is because it clarifies and accelerates their task or experience. These virtues should be front of mind for your hotel when creating a website or an advertisement on the internet.
Don’t think beyond what the guest wants to find out, and make sure you display this information as attractively and simply as possible.
This means thinking carefully about how you build your website and your curate your social media channels to remain both engaging and informative, ultimately enticing travellers to make a booking.
An example here is to limit the depth of your website. People want to quickly access information on your homepage instead of clicking down through numerous links.
Another issue is that of social media widgets. While you absolutely want people to visit you on social media and become a follower you don’t necessarily want them to do it in the middle of browsing your website. They may get sidetracked and never return to make a booking. Be careful of where you place your social links.
Digital media enhances your advertising potential
The great thing about being online is that there are so many different ways you can engage with travellers. Statistics will tell you a strong social media presence is essential, as is a strategy around video marketing. Last year, social network ad spending reached $36 billion, representing 16% of all digital ad spend globally.
Don’t get too caught up with trends like Snapchat, stick to the proven performers such as Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube to amplify your content.
In addition, if people are going to consume written content these days they’re more likely to do it digitally, which is why it’s a great idea to publish a hotel blog.
Beyond this is what you can do with search engine optimisation and search engine marketing, both of which can be effective in putting your hotel in front of many more potential guests.
Digital media helps you to create a unique brand
Because of the different platforms within digital media the potential for hotel marketers to be creative is much greater and enables them to connect with a lot more customers. Some travellers engage with beautiful images, some prefer videos, others are content to take a deep dive into written information. Digital media allows your hotel to create this, on brand, all at the same time too.
Think about what your unique selling points are and the best way to communicate these to your audience. So if you’re located in a destination that lends itself to stunning photography, put this on your website and social media. Conversely, your appeal might be more historic so make sure you have interesting stories on your blog.