It really does go without saying that the holidays are the most pivotal time within the hotel industry. Be it the summer, Christmas or half-term, whenever the schools are off is the most busy time and those with children who can only get away during these times will be aware that it also tends to be the most expensive. With this in mind, it is so important that you keep the holidays in mind when you are creating your marketing strategies.
Social media is one of the most important and effective tools you can use when marketing. It’s free, it’s easy to use and you can target a wide audience at the click of a button. Leading up to the holidays be sure to let your followers know what you can offer during their break. Do you have a children’s play area or do the little ones get their breakfast for free? Whatever fun offers you have for families, make sure your followers are aware of it.
It is also a good idea to highlight local events to try and attract those with little ones. Is there a special children’s theatre show coming to your local auditorium? Tweet about it! Show parents that if they come to your hotel they will never be short of ideas for things to do with the family and you will immediately seem more appealing. After all, every parent’s nightmare is to hear “I’m bored”.
Start conversations with your followers by asking them what their plans are for the holidays and what their favourite activities are with the kids to see what your customers are looking for. Time is of the essence here and it is important that you begin this social media campaign a good couple of months in advance so that you reach potential guests at the point in which they are planning their holidays.
Also make sure to keep it up and make such posts a regular feature. Don’t make them the only type that you actually post as it will look to salesy and a little bit desperate – never a good look!
Why not think of some themes you can incorporate to make your marketing efforts even more appealing? If Halloween is coming up, do a fancy dress competition and decorate your hotel with spider webs. When Christmas is coming up, make sure you really get into the festive spirit. These holidays can be the busiest of the year for hotels, so it is your chance to really show guests what you can offer, and hopefully they will choose to come back time and time again.
