Social Media Recommendations During A Temporary Closure

COVID-19 is having a huge impact on everyone’s lives. For anyone who owns or operates a hotel, B&B, or self-catering accommodation, it can feel like there is nothing you can do. But, social media offers you the chance to do something proactive to keep your business going. It can give you something to focus on. As well as setting you up for bumper bookings once the world starts to get back to normal.

So, here are some dos and don’ts to help you navigate social media in the times of COVID-19.

Do

Communicate Transparently
If you don’t already, make sure you have some FAQ information up for any guest with bookings, or anyone looking for bookings in the future.

Be Empathetic
Don’t be afraid to be human. Try to offer some hope. For example, try to shine a light on the positives in your area and community. Now is not the time to worry about competitors, now is the time to come together and support one another.

Share What You Have
If you have great views or amazing scenery where you are, then this is the time to share it. Share what you have in spring and talk about what will be coming in summer.

Reminisce
If you have pleasant interactions with regular guests, ask them to share stories about previous visits. This is good escapism for everyone. You could even ask past guests to share their favourite photo and memory of their holiday with you.

Focus On Positives
The majority of the social media community is great and wants to support hospitality businesses, so focus on using trending hashtags such as #SaveHospitality, #DontCancelPostpone and #PostponeDontCancel.

Don’t

Stop Posting
Since everyone is trapped at home, they are going to be spending a lot more time online. This is an excellent opportunity to connect with your clients. If you disappear from the internet, your customers are going to go elsewhere.

Post Like Everything is Normal
Times are mad. Acknowledge that. Ignoring it isn’t going to make it better

Be Sales-y
This isn’t the time to go hard with sales. It will just build frustration for people who can’t travel right now.

Don’t Make Light Of The Situation
Making light or being sarcastic about a global pandemic is not a good idea. Memes can be a great way to add humour to a situation, but do be careful about what you post. You don’t want to offend anyone.