It’s been an unprecedented year for tourism organizations around the country and around the world.
As we get closer to the summer months, we’re all hopeful that soon we’ll be able to gather together in larger groups and with that, more businesses and attractions can start to loosen some restrictions.
As we continue to be flexible in all of the unknowns, it’s important that you are consistently telling your story!
Here are a few ways you can do that:
Highlight Local Businesses
What local businesses are open and available for customers? Highlight the local businesses on your website, in social media, and in your newsletter. Now more than ever, your promotion is important support for them.
Highlight Different Destination Activities
What kind of activities are available in your community? Perhaps there are parks, lakes, or outdoor experiences you can highlight. What activities can people enjoy now, and which ones can people get excited about for the future?
Create Blog Posts
Create blog posts that highlight the above examples (local businesses and destination activities).
Update Photo and Video Assets
Now’s a great time to update your photo and video assets. Hire a photographer and videographer to take photos and videos of your community, and those assets can then be shared on your website, in newsletters, on social media, and more.
Reach out to the Media
Pursue media coverage by pitching your stories to the media. What local hotels or attractions have made interesting pivots? And as restrictions change and businesses open to more capacity, those topics are newsworthy!
Use Social Media Stories and Reels
Instagram “stories” and “reels” are currently a popular way to share content and engage audiences. “Stories” allow you to show small snippets and moments from your day (and they disappear within 24 hours). “Reels” are short 15-second videos that you can add text and music to. Experiment with these social media features and build engagement on social media.
Try Fun, Creative Ways to Share Your Content
Now is a time you can be experimental and consider new avenues and venues for getting your story out there. For example, you could create a video reel of what your town has to offer. Or, you could reach out to influencers in your community to collaborate with. Now’s a great time to mix things up.
Think of it in terms of using this slower period to your benefit so that once things get busier this summer, you’ve built up your marketing momentum and are ready to continue telling your story to people actively seeking the experiences and attractions available in your community.
Tourism organizations, I’d love to know: How are you telling your story? What else would you like to hear about when it comes to telling your story? Leave a comment below to share with me.
‘Til next time,
Sandy
