It might be easy to brush off Snapchat as the social networking platform that is used exclusively by teenagers and their friends, but as a small hotel operator, you shouldn’t ignore this powerful social media tool.
Snapchat allows its users to send messages that will delete — forever — within a matter of moments, attracting those who want increased privacy while still connecting with their peers on social media. It receives more than 4 billion content views per day — making it as widely used as Facebook!
So, the question is, should your bed and breakfast create a Snapchat profile and begin sending out those infamous snaps?
Here’s a few things to know about this platform before you make a decision for your hotel:
Businesses can create profiles on Snapchat.
The trick is that you can only send your marketing messages out to people that you have added as friends.
You have to actively add people on Snapchat or inform your guests about your Snapchat profile in order to get them to add you.
Check out Marriott promoting its Snapchat account here:
We’re on @Snapchat! Follow MarriottHotels & see how we (& some of our closest friends) #TravelBrilliantly every day. pic.twitter.com/mrKyaTYby1
— Marriott Hotels (@Marriott) December 19, 2014
Marketing messages can consist of single images, videos, or Stories, which is a compilation of both images and videos.
In many cases, hoteliers will use snaps as a way to promote discount codes that require quick action (Book Now and Receive 15% off Your Room!) or to promote their property through videos.
Another option for bed and breakfast operators is to create Our Stories, which are branded messages that can be sent to Snapchat users.
Here’s an example of some snaps from W Hotels:
(Image source)
Use the recently-added Discover tool.
Discover allows you to provide daily editorial content based on topics that are trending across the globe.
You can use Discover in order to provide relevant information to travelers who are most interested in your products.
Is Snapchat Right for Your Bed and Breakfast?
Snapchat is a highly-effective social networking tool, particularly when it comes to engaging Millennial travelers.
So if you’re trying to decide whether or not to jump on the bandwagon, the first thing to consider is the type of travelers you want to attract.
If you find that most of your guests are retirees who are looking for a quaint and quiet accommodation while they explore the surrounding area, then your brand may not benefit as much from Snapchat.
However, if your bed and breakfast appeals to backpackers, solo travelers and even young couples, you should give Snapchat a try!
It could be the best way to connect with the people who are most interested in staying at your bed and breakfast.
Snapchat is just one of many social networking platforms that you can use to improve your online presence and connect with travelers from around the world. If you’re interested to try it, give it a shot!
The post Should Your B&B Jump on the Snapchat Bandwagon? appeared first on Front Desk & Reservation System for Small Hotels – Little Hotelier.
