Welcome to the world of hashtags—those little symbols that have a big influence in today’s social media world. They’re the magic keys that unlock doors to guest engagement, travel trends, and community conversations. Whether you’re a seasoned innkeeper or just starting your journey in the hospitality industry, understanding how to effectively use hashtags can make all the difference in your online presence. So, let’s take a little walk through the world of hashtags, shall we?

What Are Hashtags?

Hashtags are the combination of a specific symbol and keywords that are used to categorize and organize content on social media platforms. Originally popularized on Twitter, hashtags have since become a staple feature across various social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn. They’re those nifty little hash symbols (#) that turn ordinary words or phrases into clickable links. Click on one, and voila! You’re transported to a world of posts, photos, and videos—all revolving around that same hashtag. Think of it like stepping into a room where everyone’s talking about the same topic you were looking for!

The Function of Hashtags

Now, why should we bother with hashtags in the hospitality industry? Well, they serve two main purposes: helping guests discover amazing properties such as yours and helping property owners organize their overall digital presence.

1. Guest Discovery: Think of hashtags as treasure maps for travelers, guiding them to hidden gems among the vast sea of properties. Whether they’re seeking luxury getaways, culinary adventures, or local attractions, hashtags are their trusty guides, leading them straight to the experiences they’re looking for.
2. Property Organization: Ever tried finding a specific guest photo or review in your entire library of such things? It’s like trying to find a needle in a haystack! But with hashtags, you’re able to organize that haystack into neat little piles of guest stories and memories. By encouraging guests to use property-specific hashtags, such as #[YourProperty]breakfast, owners can create a collection of unique experiences that showcase the charm of different aspects of their establishment.

Why It’s Important to Use Hashtags

Okay, but why should your property in particular care about hashtags? Well, think of them as your digital concierge service. They’re not just decoration to make yourself look trendy—they’re the key to unlocking greater visibility and engagement online. Whether you’re a boutique inn, a cozy bed and breakfast, or a trendy vacation rental, hashtags are your ticket to attracting more guests, driving bookings, and building a loyal following.

Tips and Tricks for Effective Hashtag Usage

Now, you may be thinking to yourself, “Well this all sounds great, but I’m not sure how to use hashtags effectively.” Well, lucky for you, you’ve got a friendly Gen Zer here to walk you through the basics! So, let’s get down to business—how do you use hashtags like a pro in the hospitality industry? Here are a few insider tips to get you started:

• Quality Over Quantity: Less is more when it comes to hashtags. Aim for no more than five per post, and make sure they’re a good mix of broad and specific terms. Start with your target keyword (like #LuxuryGetaway). Next, add your property name (such as #YourProperty). Then, sprinkle in a couple niche-market keywords (like #BedAndBreakfast or #HospitalityIndustry). Finally, finish with a nice, broad-reaching hashtag (such as #fyp – “For You Page”) that will encourage the algorithm to push your post into people’s feed (otherwise known as their “For You Page”).

• Mix it Up: Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Mix it up with a variety of hashtags—some broad, some specific. This way, you’ll reach both the masses and the niche audiences who are dreaming of their next getaway. The more you branch out with which hashtags you’re using, the more keywords become associated with your brand – therefore expanding your overall online exposure.

• Tailor to Each Platform: Each social media platform has its own hashtag vibe. While hashtags are king on Instagram and Twitter, they don’t function very well on platforms such as Facebook. So skip the hashtags there—they’ll only clutter your posts, which can cause people to become uninterested.

We’re Here to Help

Navigating the world of social media can be intimidating, but you don’t have to do it alone. At InsideOut Solutions, we specialize in social media management and strategies that will expand your online reach and engage with guests in meaningful ways before they book, during their stay, and after they check-out. Reach out today to see how we can help you shine in the world of social media!

Stay Informed, Stay Thriving!

InsideOut Solutions creates a new blog post every week, so subscribe to our monthly newsletter to stay updated with our recent blog posts! Feel free to contact us with any inquiries or if you require support with your property’s website design, digital marketing, content creation, hosting, or print & graphic design. Websites are our specialty, and with over 29 years in the industry and four generations of expertise, we are here for you.