Why social media marketing? Because that’s where the money is. Likewise… it’s people who buy stuff. Smart marketers participate in social media because that’s where the people are. It’s not larceny, but it’s also not complicated. And yet, social media marketing and bank robbery have things in common: You’ve got to be daring, innovative, and most of all, effective. That’s apparently where things get complicated. Apart from a PC, an internet connection and some basic knowledge, all you really need to get going in social media marketing is one crucial component: time. Let us save you time by introducing the six types of social media - so you can choose for yourself which is best for you.

Type 1: Social Networks What it is: An online community of people that share common interests Examples: Facebook, MySpace Suggested use for the hotel marketer: Build discussions and brand awareness through groups, profiles, and participation

Type 2: Blogging (and Microblogging) What it is: A journal-style website of frequently updated information; microblogging is publishing brief text messages Examples: Wordpress, Twitter Suggested use for the hotel marketer: Communicate information about your hotel or surrounding area as a travel destination

Type 3: Social Bookmarking What it is: Allows users to save and share web pages they find Examples: Del.icio.us, Digg Suggested use for the hotel marketer: Enable visitors to spread important content

Type 4: Media Sharing What it is: Enables the sharing of photos and videos Examples: Flickr, YouTube Suggested use for the hotel marketer: Take photos and video from your hotel, and publish them to media sharing sites for increased visibility

Type 5: Social Reviews What it is: Allows travelers to review hotels (potential guests can use this to make their travel plans) Examples: Yelp, TripAdvisor Suggested use for the hotel marketer: Find out what guests are saying about your hotel, and respond with solutions as needed. 89% of US buyers read online reviews, so it’s important to be aware of what they’re saying about you.

Type 6: User Generated Content (UGC) What it is: Travel guides written by the users Examples: WikiTravel, World66 Uses for the hotel marketer: The opportunity to be involved in writing your city’s visitor guide

Source: Gradigio