Social Media Solicited And Unsolicited Chatter
Speaking from a day to day encounter with social media, I can tell you that much of the social media chatter about products and services is spontaneous, but with the escalating volume of viewers visiting these websites, it should come as no surprise that some social media websites are actually paying for consumer reviews, photos and even videos. Consumer research does tell us that word of mouth advertising, and this is not limited to friends...
There are millions of social media websites and many of them rely on advertising dollars to support their websites. The more chatter the website receives and the quality of the chatter will generate more unique visitors and page views. In the travel space,
If the Democratic political party can have a televised debate based on video questions delivered via
Social media clearly has a direct affect on all businesses simply because it is where billions of shoppers go to find non-commercial feedback from what is believed to be real users of the services and products being researched. The actual purchase may or may not be concluded online, but the information has a tremendous impact on the buyer’s decision. For those who are still critical of the social media and feel it is unfair, well, consider that paid advertising is not a whole lot different, where quit often the service or product claims and offers being advertised may be untrue or at best a bit exaggerated.
My suggestion is: the best way to deal with social media from a commercial perspective is to join in and know what is being said about your business and respond quickly to the chatter where your business is being discussed. Rule number one for a creditable business response to a social media review or comment is not to be too apologetic or appreciative, keep your reply simple and directed to the individual making the comment. Remember, this is a conversation not a negotiation or a place for a sales pitch.
Lodging Interactive is a leading provider of Internet Marketing Services to the travel and lodging industries. The company provides a portfolio of effective Internet Marketing Services to hundreds of hotels, resorts, timeshares and bed and breakfasts worldwide.