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Maybe it will go away.
Social media’s really not that important to my clients.
I don’t want to make any mistakes, so I just won’t do anything.
These are common concerns I hear whispered at the back of the conference room. Guess what, when I spoke at NTA in 2009 to a capacity filled room, social media was in its infancy. Now in 2013, it’s growing exponentially and changing constantly. Are you harnessing it for your business?
Key takeaway: Survey your clients to find what social platforms they use, then decide how to leverage your time and talent. Social media is the new search engine. When you have a consistent voice and presence you’ll find your SEO will grow and clients will help you market by becoming your brand advocates.
Free Survey Tools
There are a number of simple, free tools to use to survey your clients. You may want to check out Survey Monkey, Kwik Surveys, and Poll Daddy.
Travel pros, you may want to ask your clients 3 quick questions; 1) What social sites do you visit? A. Facebook, b. Twitter, c. other, d. none. 2) How often do you check your social pages? A. daily, b. weekly, c. other. 3) Do you read on-line news and travel info? YES, NO.
Tour Operators, you may be interested in polling your tour participants about their social photo album use by asking something like this; 1) What social sites do you upload your vacation photos to? a. Facebook, b. Instagram, c. other d. none. 2) How likely are you to photo tag your friends in your vacation photos? A. always, b. when I remember, c. other 3) Do you capture your memories on video? YES, NO
Here’s what it looks like on Survey Monkey:
You can easily reach your audience in a variety of ways:
Social Tip
Remember to use the powerful polling and questioning tools on Facebook and LinkedIn. Don’t forget the instant power of a question on Twitter.
With these tools you’ll leverage the power of knowledge. You’ll be amazed at the many ways you’ll be able to apply your new knowledge and reach your clients, potential new clients and brand evangelists where they ‘hang out’ in the world of social media.
Tip: Start simple. Keep at it. Evolve. Focus on the 1 platform where most of your clients are, then branch out from there. Here are 9 Key Tactics to avoid Social Media Missteps.
How many social sites do you invest your time in?
Another social slip-up to avoid is to think it’s just about business. Read more
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About the Author, Catherine J. Heeg
Catherine Heeg is a travel, hospitality and tourism industry thought leader. As President of Customized Management Solutions and an international speaker and trainer she delivers customized interactive social media, marketing and communication workshops and webinars. Customized social marketing strategy design and coaching keep her driving results for the tourism, travel and hospitality industry.