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Guests have endless options to choose from in the competitive hospitality industry, so standing out on social media has become essential for hotels looking to attract attention and bookings. A strong social media presence not only drives brand awareness but also directly influences a guest’s decision to choose your hotel over others. One of the most effective ways to captivate potential guests online is through showcasing your hotel’s unique interiors. Stunning and distinctive designs naturally draw attention and, when shared on social media, act as free advertising.
1. Showcase Unique and Instagram-worthy interiors
Invest in Distinctive Design Elements
The first step to making your hotel a social media sensation is to invest in bold, distinctive design elements that reflect the personality of your brand. Think beyond generic decor—consider themed rooms, statement furniture, and eye-catching pieces that tell a story. For example, a lobby with a grand chandelier, a quirky seating arrangement, or walls adorned with local artwork can become the visual signature of your hotel. These unique elements not only set your hotel apart but also encourage guests to take photos and share their experiences online.
Create Photo-Worthy Spaces
Identify the most photogenic areas within your hotel and enhance them to be as visually appealing as possible. Lobbies, lounges, outdoor spaces, and even hallways can be transformed into photo-worthy spots with the right lighting, colour schemes, and textures. Natural light, vibrant colours, and textured materials like wood and stone can make spaces more inviting and appealing in photos. When guests encounter these Instagrammable moments, they’re more likely to snap a picture and share it with their followers.
Encourage User-Generated Content
Unique interiors naturally inspire guests to share their experiences on social media. However, you can amplify this effect by encouraging user-generated content. Simple strategies like creating branded hashtags, offering photo challenges, or running contests for the best guest photo can motivate guests to tag your hotel in their posts. The more your interiors are shared online, the more visibility your hotel gains, leading to increased brand recognition and potential bookings.
2. Use Social Media to Highlight Design Stories
Share Behind-the-Scenes Content
One of the most engaging ways to use social media is by sharing the stories behind your hotel’s design. Take followers on a journey from the initial concept to the final execution. Share videos, photos, and interviews with the designers, architects, and artists who brought your vision to life. This behind-the-scenes content not only adds depth to your brand but also fosters a deeper connection with your audience, who will appreciate the craftsmanship and thought that went into creating your unique space.
Feature Unique Artwork and Installations
If your hotel features custom artwork, sculptures, or installations, make sure these are prominently showcased on your social media channels. Share the stories of the artists and the inspiration behind the pieces. Highlighting these elements not only sets your hotel apart but also positions it as a cultural hub, attracting guests who value art and design.
Regularly Update Followers on Design Updates
Keeping your social media followers engaged means regularly updating them on any design changes or renovations. Whether it’s a new lobby installation, a seasonal decor update, or a complete room makeover, sharing these updates builds anticipation and keeps your audience interested in what’s next for your hotel.
3. Leverage Influencers and Partnerships
Collaborate with Design Influencers
Partnering with social media influencers who specialise in interior design or travel can significantly amplify your hotel’s reach. Influencers can showcase your unique interiors to a broader audience, lending credibility and style to your brand. When influencers post about your hotel, their followers are likely to take note, potentially leading to more bookings and social media buzz.
Host Influencer Events
Consider hosting exclusive events for influencers at your hotel. Create immersive experiences where influencers can explore and capture your hotel’s design in all its glory. These events should be designed with social media in mind, offering plenty of photo opportunities that influencers will be eager to share.
Cross-Promote with Design Brands
If your hotel features products from specific design brands—whether it’s furniture, lighting, or decor—consider cross-promotion on social media. Partnering with these brands can enhance your hotel’s visibility as their followers become aware of your property. It’s a win-win situation where both parties benefit from increased exposure.
4. Engage Followers with Design-Centric Campaigns
Run Social Media Contests
Social media contests are an excellent way to engage your followers and encourage them to share content featuring your hotel’s interiors. Offer prizes for the most creative or popular posts, such as a free night’s stay or a complimentary dinner. Contests not only increase engagement but also generate a wealth of user-generated content that can be shared across your channels.
Create Interactive Design Challenges
Engage your audience with interactive design challenges, such as virtual room design contests or voting on upcoming decor themes. These challenges allow your followers to feel involved in the creative process, fostering a sense of community and loyalty to your brand.
Utilise User Polls and Q&A Sessions
Polls and Q&A sessions on platforms like Instagram and Facebook are great ways to interact with your audience. Use polls to get feedback on design elements or preferences, and host Q&A sessions where followers can ask about your hotel’s design process. These interactive elements not only increase engagement but also provide valuable insights into what your audience likes.
5. Use Professional Photography and Videography
Invest in High-Quality Visuals
Professional photography and videography are crucial in capturing the essence of your hotel’s interiors. High-quality visuals not only make your social media feeds more attractive but also ensure that your hotel is portrayed in the best possible light. Partnering with a professional team, like Milkris Interiors, can make a significant difference in the final presentation.
Create Virtual Tours and 360-degree Views
Immersive content, such as virtual tours and 360-degree views, allows potential guests to explore your hotel’s interiors before they even arrive. This type of content is highly engaging and can significantly increase the time users spend on your website or social media channels.
Highlight Guest Experiences
Sharing photos and videos of guests enjoying your hotel’s interiors adds authenticity to your social media presence. These real-life experiences resonate with potential guests, showing them exactly what they can expect during their stay.
Standing out on social media requires a strategic approach. By showcasing your hotel’s unique and Instagram-worthy interiors, sharing design stories, leveraging influencers, engaging followers with creative campaigns, and investing in professional visuals, you can create a social media presence that not only attracts attention but also converts that attention into bookings. Start implementing these strategies today, and watch as your hotel becomes a social media sensation, drawing in guests from around the world.
Pictured above: Image by Solen Feyissa from Pixabay
