e've said it before, and we'll say it again - Social media is a great place to show off your rentals and get more customers. Best of all, you can do it for free.
In this blog, we will give you valuable tips on creating great posts on your social media sites and how to make more people see them.
Which social media site(s) should I use?
Ideally you should be on TikTok, Instagram and Facebook. These three sites have different demographics, and most people use at least one or more of these sites.
TikTok is mostly for the younger crowd. Instagram attracts a broader audience across all age groups. Facebook is more established with older generations.
If you are new to this, and managing three social media sites seems too much, our recommendation is to start with Instagram and Facebook. These sites are owned by the same company, and offer a feature that allows you to cross-post between the sites. This means that posts and images you show on Instagram, can automatically be posted on your Facebook page at the same time. Once you get more comfortable with using these sites, then consider adding TikTok.
What should I post?
Your renters are looking for experiences, so that is what your posts should focus on. Short videos and photos should be the main element of your posts. Here are some tips for your photos and videos:
- Make it POP! Take videos and photos on beautiful days with the sun shining
- Include people in your posts. Smiling and happy customers are a great selling point!
- Take action videos and photos. An image or video of a cruising pontoon or a jet ski will be more appealing than the same boats idle at the dock.
- Get the angle and framing right. Learn more about taking great images here.
How often should I post?
During your high season, try to post something at least every week. You should still post during your off-season, but you can reduce the posting schedule to every 2-3 weeks.
What content should I add to posts?
It's best to keep the messages short and to the point. Your posts should encourage the reader to book your rentals, too!
Example:
Should I use hashtags in my posts?
Yes! Hashtags are important as they make it easier for potential customers to find your posts.
Consider adding several hashtags to ensure you get the most views, such as:
- What it is. Example: #pontoonrental, #boating, #boatrental
- Where you are. Example: #destin, #crabisland, #fortwaltonbeach
- Your business name. Example: #riversiderentals
- Other tags that describe the experience. Example: #yolo, #sun, #fun, #water
Promoting your Social Media accounts
In order to ensure your posts are seen, you need to promote your social media pages. See a few options below:
- Promote on your website. Add links to your social media pages on your website. The best option would be to include the icons for each site in the headers and footers of every page on your website.
- Promote in email communications. If you send newsletters or updates, always add links to your social media pages in the emails. Also make sure that your booking confirmations and reminder emails include links to your pages, too!
- Promote in the Office or on the Dock. When customers come to check in for their rental or walk up to your location, make sure you have signs, posters or other marketing material that show your social media sites. Printed materials should have a QR code, so customers can easily and quickly get to your sites from their mobile device. Your marketing material should encourage customers to share their experiences on your social media sites with the #hastags for your business.
Example:
For other tips on how to use social media to get more bookings, check out how to run a social media contest here.
Follow BookingCentral on our Facebook and Instagram pages for more tips for your rental and activity business. If you want to know more about our booking platform, reach out to our team today!
