From Zero to Hero: How to Market Your Hotel on Instagram

How to market your hotel on instagram effectively can seem overwhelming, but with the right strategies, it becomes a powerful tool to boost your hotel's visibility and bookings. Here’s a quick overview to get started:

• Understand Your Audience: Tailor content specifically for your Instagram followers by appealing to travelers with strong visuals and engaging stories.
• Use High-Quality Images: Always post vivid, professional photos to showcase your hotel's best features and experiences.
• Tell Your Hotel's Story: Use your posts to narrate unique experiences at your hotel, focusing on what makes it special.
• Engage with User-Generated Content: Encourage guests to share their photos using your brand's hashtag and repost these images to build authenticity.

Instagram offers a massive potential audience with over a billion active users, making it an ideal platform for hotel promotion. Its visual nature allows for creative storytelling and compelling engagement with potential guests.

I'm Shahar Rubin, with a background in tech innovation and marketing strategy, I founded Sail to help hotels like yours boost direct bookings through structured and data-driven Instagram marketing. Let’s explore how these strategies can improve your hotel’s Instagram presence.

Why Instagram Marketing is Essential for Hotels

Instagram is not just another social media platform; it's a vital tool for hotels aiming to capture the hearts of millennials and beyond. With over a billion users, Instagram offers a vibrant space where hotels can inspire travel, build brand awareness, and drive direct bookings.

Millennials: The Traveling Powerhouse

Millennials are the core audience on Instagram, and they travel a lot. In fact, they travel more than any other age group. Hotels need to harness this trend by showcasing their properties in a way that appeals to this demographic. Millennials are drawn to visually appealing destinations that offer unique experiences. They often choose hotels based on their "Instagramability," meaning the potential for stunning photos they can share.

Travel Inspiration at Their Fingertips

Instagram serves as a digital travel brochure, offering endless inspiration for potential guests. Users scroll through captivating images and videos, finding new destinations and experiences. Hotels can tap into this by sharing content that highlights not just their rooms, but also the local culture, attractions, and unique offerings. By doing so, they position themselves as part of the travel journey, not just a place to stay.

Building Brand Awareness

Instagram's platform is perfect for building brand awareness. By consistently sharing high-quality images and engaging stories, hotels can establish a recognizable brand presence. This is crucial as travelers often make booking decisions based on brand familiarity and trust. Engaging with followers through comments and reposting user-generated content further strengthens this relationship.

Driving Direct Bookings

A significant advantage of Instagram marketing is its ability to drive direct bookings. With the integration of in-app shopping features and call-to-action buttons, hotels can turn followers into guests with just a few taps. By showcasing real experiences and offering exclusive deals to Instagram followers, hotels can encourage direct bookings, bypassing third-party platforms and increasing revenue.

In conclusion, Instagram is more than a social media platform; it's a powerful marketing tool that can transform how hotels connect with their audience. By focusing on millennials, providing travel inspiration, building brand awareness, and driving direct bookings, hotels can maximize their potential on Instagram.

Setting Up Your Instagram Business Profile

Creating a strong foundation for your hotel on Instagram starts with setting up a business profile. This step is crucial as it open ups a range of features designed to help you understand and reach your audience more effectively.

Business Profile: Your Gateway to Success

Switching to a business profile is simple and offers numerous benefits. You'll gain access to Instagram Insights, which provides valuable data about your followers and how they interact with your content. This information is key to refining your marketing strategy and ensuring you're reaching the right people.

To switch to a business profile:

1. Open your Instagram app and go to your profile.
2. Tap the three lines in the top right corner and select 'Settings.'
3. Tap 'Account,' then scroll down and choose 'Switch to Professional Account.'
4. Select 'Business' and follow the prompts to complete the setup.

Crafting a Memorable Username

Your username should be easy to remember and closely match your hotel's name. This makes it simple for potential guests to find and recognize you. Avoid using extra words or characters that could complicate searches. If your hotel's name is already taken, consider adding your location or using underscores to separate words.

Choosing the Right Profile Photo

Your profile photo is often the first impression users get of your hotel. Use a high-resolution image of your hotel logo to ensure brand consistency. Alternatively, consider a striking image of your property, like the entrance or a signature interior element, that captures the essence of your hotel.

Essential Contact Information

Make it easy for potential guests to reach you by including contact information in your profile. Add your hotel’s phone number, email address, and physical location. This information will be publicly visible and helps build trust with your audience. Having a business profile allows you to add communication buttons, making it convenient for guests to contact you directly from Instagram.

Call-to-Action (CTA) Buttons: Driving Engagement

CTA buttons are powerful tools for encouraging interaction. Use them to direct users to your website for bookings, special offers, or more information about your hotel. Including a direct booking link can significantly increase the likelihood of turning Instagram followers into paying guests. Make sure your CTA is clear and compelling to drive engagement.

By setting up a well-optimized Instagram business profile, you're laying the groundwork for effective hotel marketing on Instagram. This strategic approach ensures your hotel stands out in the crowded social media landscape, attracting potential guests and driving bookings.

How to Market Your Hotel on Instagram

Instagram is a visual playground, and your hotel needs to shine. Here’s how you can make your hotel stand out on this powerful platform.

Use High-Quality Images

First things first: high-quality images are your best friend. Your photos should be sharp, vibrant, and professional. This is not the place for blurry snapshots or dimly lit rooms. Use high-resolution images to showcase your hotel’s best features. Think stunning views, neat interiors, and inviting amenities.

Tell Your Hotel's Story

Next, let your photos tell a story. Don’t just post pictures of rooms; share the unique experiences your hotel offers. Capture behind-the-scenes moments, like a chef preparing a signature dish or a housekeeper adding the final touches to a guest room. Highlight guest stories to give potential visitors a sense of what they can expect. This storytelling approach makes your hotel feel real and relatable.

Engage with User-Generated Content

Your guests are already creating content for you—use it! Encourage guests to share their photos by creating a brand hashtag. This not only boosts your organic traffic but also provides authentic content from real visitors. Engage with these posts by liking, commenting, or even reposting them. It shows that you value your guests and their experiences.

Use Hashtags and Filters

Finally, don’t underestimate the power of hashtags and filters. Use relevant and trending hashtags to increase your reach. Hashtags like #LuxuryHotel, #TravelGoals, or #Staycation can help you tap into broader audiences. Filters can improve your images, making them more eye-catching. But use them sparingly to maintain authenticity.

By focusing on these elements, you’ll create an Instagram presence that not only attracts followers but turns them into guests. Up next, we’ll explore how to leverage Instagram’s unique features to further boost your hotel’s marketing strategy.

Leveraging Instagram Features for Hotel Marketing

Instagram offers a treasure trove of features that can transform your hotel’s marketing strategy. Let's explore how to make the most of Instagram Stories, Reels, Explore, and Live.

Instagram Stories

Instagram Stories are perfect for sharing timely events and behind-the-scenes content. With 500 million users engaging with Stories daily, this is a golden opportunity to capture attention.

• Timely Events: Announce special events or promotions. For example, if your hotel is hosting a wine tasting, create a Story to spread the word.

• Behind-the-Scenes: Give followers a sneak peek into daily hotel operations. Show how your team prepares for an event or what goes into maintaining a pristine pool.

• Highlights: Save your best Stories in Highlights, keeping them accessible on your profile. This is great for showcasing amenities or guest testimonials.

Instagram Reels

Reels are all about short, engaging videos. They let you express your brand’s personality in a fun way.

• Engaging Content: Create Reels that highlight unique aspects of your hotel. Maybe a quick tour of your spa or a day in the life of a guest.

• Special Effects: Use Instagram’s editing tools to add music, filters, and text. This makes your Reels more captivating and shareable.

• Short Videos: Keep them snappy—15 to 30 seconds is ideal. The goal is to grab attention fast and encourage viewers to explore more of your content.

Instagram Explore

Getting on the Explore page means reaching a wider audience and gaining personalized exposure.

• Algorithm Magic: The Explore page showcases content based on user interests. To increase your chances of appearing here, post engaging content that resonates with your target audience.

• Wider Reach: Use popular hashtags and collaborate with influencers to expand your visibility. This can help your hotel get finded by potential guests who might not follow you yet.

• Personalized Content: Tailor your posts to match the interests of your audience. If your hotel is in a beach destination, focus on sun, surf, and sand vibes.

Instagram Live

Instagram Live offers real-time interaction with your audience, making it a powerful tool for engagement.

• Live Tours: Host live tours of your hotel to show off its best features. Walk viewers through your lobby, rooms, and outdoor spaces.

• Q&A Sessions: Engage with potential guests by answering their questions live. This builds trust and provides immediate value.

• Real-Time Engagement: Use Live sessions to announce winners of contests or share exciting news. It’s a great way to create buzz and keep your audience hooked.

By leveraging these Instagram features, your hotel can create a dynamic and engaging presence that attracts and retains guests. Next, let's explore how to run effective Instagram ad campaigns to further boost your hotel's visibility.

Running Instagram Ads for Hotels

When it comes to boosting your hotel's visibility on Instagram, ads are a game-changer. They seamlessly blend into user feeds, making them hard to ignore. Let’s break down the types of Instagram ads and how to create effective ad campaigns.

Types of Instagram Ads

1. Image Ads:
These are the classic ads that appear in a user’s feed. They look like regular posts but are marked as 'Sponsored.' Use high-quality, eye-catching images of your hotel’s best features to grab attention.

2. Video Ads:
Video ads are perfect for showcasing your hotel in action. A short clip of your amenities or an event can be more engaging than a static image. Keep it brief and captivating to hold viewers' attention.

3. Story Ads:
These are full-screen ads that appear between users’ Stories. They’re great for timely promotions or events. Use this format to create a sense of urgency or exclusivity.

4. Carousel Ads:
Carousel ads allow users to swipe through a series of images or videos. This is ideal for telling a story or showcasing multiple aspects of your hotel in one ad.

5. Shopping Ads:
If your hotel offers merchandise or experiences that can be purchased online, shopping ads are your go-to. They let users view products and make purchases directly from the app.

Creating Effective Ad Campaigns

Target Audience:
Identify who you want to reach. Instagram’s ad platform lets you target users based on location, interests, and behaviors. Tailor your ads to speak directly to your ideal guests.

Budget:
Set a budget that aligns with your marketing goals. Instagram offers flexibility, allowing you to spend as much or as little as you want. Monitor your spending to ensure you’re getting a good return on investment.

Ad Formats:
Choose the format that best suits your message. For example, use image ads for stunning visuals, or video ads for dynamic storytelling.

Performance Tracking:
Use Instagram’s analytics tools to track the performance of your ads. This data helps you understand what works and what doesn’t, allowing you to refine your strategy over time.

By understanding the different types of Instagram ads and how to use them effectively, you can create campaigns that not only reach but resonate with your target audience. Up next, let’s dive into tips for growing your hotel’s Instagram following.

Tips for Growing Your Hotel's Instagram Following

Growing your hotel's Instagram following isn't just about posting pretty pictures. It's about creating a strategy that keeps your audience engaged and coming back for more. Here are some tips to help you do just that.

Consistent Posting

Regular Updates:
Consistency is key to staying top-of-mind. Aim to post at least three times a week. This ensures your hotel remains relevant in your followers' feeds.

Content Calendar:
Plan your posts using a content calendar. This helps you maintain a steady flow of content and ensures you're prepared for holidays, events, or promotions.

Peak Times:
Research shows posting during peak times can boost engagement. Try posting between 9 to 11 am and 6 to 8 pm. Use Instagram analytics to find the best times for your specific audience.

Engaging Captions

Captivating Text:
A picture may be worth a thousand words, but a great caption can seal the deal. Write short, engaging captions that capture your hotel's personality.

Call-to-Action:
Encourage interaction by including a call-to-action. Phrases like "Comment your favorite travel destination" or "Tag someone you'd love to visit with" work wonders.

Brand Voice:
Keep your captions in line with your hotel's brand voice. Whether it's playful, luxurious, or down-to-earth, consistency builds brand identity.

Optimal Posting Times

Morning and Evening:
Posting during these times can increase visibility, as many users check Instagram during their morning and evening routines.

Weekdays:
While weekends can be hit or miss, weekdays often offer more consistent engagement. Experiment to find what works best for your audience.

Instagram Analytics:
Use insights to track when your followers are most active. Adjust your posting schedule to align with these times for maximum reach.

Hosting Contests

Hashtag Contests:
Run contests that encourage users to post photos with a specific hashtag. This not only increases engagement but also generates user-generated content.

Like-to-Win:
Simple contests like "like this post to win a free night" can drive quick engagement. Keep rules straightforward to encourage participation.

Selfie Stations:
Create designated selfie spots within your hotel. Guests love sharing their experiences, and this encourages them to tag your hotel, increasing your reach.

By implementing these strategies, you'll see not only an increase in followers but also in engagement and brand loyalty. Now, let's explore how to leverage Instagram's various features to further improve your hotel's online presence.

Frequently Asked Questions about Instagram Marketing for Hotels

How to Make Your Hotel Instagrammable?

Making your hotel Instagrammable means creating spaces that guests love to photograph and share. Here are some tips:

Natural Light:
Ensure your hotel is filled with natural light. Bright spaces are more inviting and make photos look stunning. Consider large windows and open areas that let in plenty of sunlight.

Interior Design:
Choose decor that stands out. Unique, stylish, or quirky designs catch the eye and encourage guests to snap and share photos. Think about adding interesting art pieces or bold color schemes.

Open Spaces:
Create open areas where guests can gather and relax. These can be lobbies, lounges, or outdoor patios. Such spaces not only improve guest experience but also serve as perfect backdrops for photos.

How Often Should Hotels Post on Instagram?

Consistency in posting keeps your audience engaged and your hotel top-of-mind. Here's how to manage your posting schedule:

Consistency:
Aim for at least three posts per week. Regular updates help maintain interest and keep your hotel visible in followers' feeds.

Specific Days:
Identify the days when your audience is most active. Many find success posting on weekdays, while others see more engagement on weekends. Use Instagram analytics to find the best days for your audience.

Engagement:
Monitor engagement levels to adjust your posting frequency. If you notice a dip in interaction, it might be time to tweak your strategy or try different content types.

How to Grow Hotel Instagram Followers?

Growing your followers requires a mix of strategic engagement and outreach:

User Engagement:
Respond to comments and messages promptly. Engaging with your audience builds a community and encourages others to follow and interact with your content.

Cross-Platform Promotion:
Promote your Instagram on other platforms like Facebook, your website, and email newsletters. Encourage followers from other channels to join you on Instagram.

Influencer Outreach:
Collaborate with influencers who align with your brand. Influencers can introduce your hotel to their followers, expanding your reach and attracting new guests. Consider inviting them for a stay in exchange for posts about your property.

By focusing on these strategies, you'll not only grow your follower count but also improve your hotel's presence on Instagram. Next, let's dive into how you can leverage Instagram's features to lift your marketing efforts.

Conclusion

Instagram has become a vital tool for hotels looking to boost their visibility and attract more direct bookings. With its focus on visual content, Instagram offers hotels a unique platform to showcase their charm and engage with potential guests in creative ways.

Sail's AI-Driven Marketing: A Game Changer

At Sail, we understand the challenges hotels face in standing out in a crowded market. That's why we've developed an AI-driven marketing solution that not only improves your hotel's presence on Instagram but does so with minimal risk to you. Our approach covers all ad spend, and you only pay for the bookings we generate. This risk-free model ensures that your investment translates directly into results.

Increased Visibility and Direct Bookings

By featuring your hotel on essential channels like Instagram, Metasearch, and Google, we ensure maximum visibility for your property. Our AI algorithms continuously optimize your campaigns, targeting the right audience and driving higher booking rates. This not only increases your direct bookings but also boosts your hotel's reputation as a must-visit destination.

Seamless Integration and No Long-Term Commitment

One of the standout features of our service is its seamless integration with existing hotel systems. There's no need to overhaul your current setup, and our model requires no long-term commitments. This flexibility allows you to experience the benefits of our marketing strategies without any upfront costs or complex contracts.

By partnering with Sail, hotels have seen an average increase of over 30% in direct bookings. Our unique approach, combined with a focus on high-quality, engaging content, ensures your hotel captures the attention of potential guests and keeps them coming back.

Ready to lift your hotel's Instagram marketing and drive more bookings? Learn more about our AI-driven solutions and see how Sail can transform your hotel's online presence.