Social media forever growing in hospitality industry

How many of you have a social media account? If you do it would be no surprise as it is establishing itself into a major part of many industries and the hospitality trade is no exception. Whether it is Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn or other platforms, it is used to voice the opinions of delighted guests furthermore encouraging businesses to disseminate their latest offers and upcoming events on their accounts in order to gain extra custom.

"Websites and applications used for social networking"

Collins Dictionary 17th July 2013

Social media has been around since the turn of the century and it has come on leaps and bounds and is at the forefront in many people’s lives. By evolving rapidly in a short space of time, it also has fast become an essential part of the hospitality sector ensuring that hospitality is in keeping with the times and not being left behind in the business world. A regular occurrence in the present day is when walking down the high street and seeing several advertisements stating “follow us on Twitter” or “like us on Facebook” outside any catering establishment be it a small café or a large chain hotel. A strong internet presence including an easy to use website is an essential part of any modern successful business.

Making sure you use and not abuse social media could mean a significant change in fortune for a business if advertising it in the right way. Translating a warm and open presence to your target audience could result in positive feedback and an increase in profit so using the correct wording and posting irresistible offers will ensure positive repercussions in any business. It can also be used on business cards or posters if advertising further outside from the local area.

Despite the general opinion that social media is a young person’s thing, this really is not true. We are an ageing population and the silver surfers have a substantial disposable income which enables them to select the perfect place for them to eat or spend holidays. The internet is the tool they use to research all their requirements.