In today’s fast-paced digital world, visual storytelling isn’t just a trend—it’s essential. Whether guests are daydreaming about their next vacation or actively booking accommodations, captivating video content significantly influences their decisions. If your hotel hasn’t tapped into the power of short-form video yet, you’re leaving bookings (and revenue) on the table!
The Rise of Short-Form Video in Hotel Marketing
The hospitality industry has witnessed a paradigm shift with the advent of platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts. These platforms have become instrumental for hotels aiming to showcase their properties and services dynamically.
Let the stats do the talking:
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65% of travelers watch videos when planning trips and choosing destinations. (quickcreator.io)
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54% of travelers specifically turn to videos when searching for accommodations.
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Guests are 67% more likely to book if a video tour of the property is available.
Short-form video isn’t just inspiring travel—it’s guiding travelers straight to your doorstep!
Impact on Consumer Decision-Making
Short-form videos play a pivotal role in the decision-making process of travelers. A significant 42% of Gen Z and 26% of Millennials utilize short social video content when planning their travel itineraries. This trend highlights the necessity for hotels to integrate short-form videos into their marketing strategies to effectively reach and influence these demographics.
FieldStn tapped into this tactic right away when launching their first property in Moab in 2023, with videos by talented storytellers going viral throughout the outdoor recreation community. We especially love the 'day in the life of a guest' storyline in this Reel by @KellieNicole
Video Content That Turns Viewers into Guests
Today’s travelers don’t just want to see videos—they expect them. With 63% watching videos to discover activities and experiences at their chosen destinations, short-form video content lets you showcase the moments guests can expect at your hotel. Immersive storytelling highlights not just your amenities but the unforgettable experiences awaiting travelers, directly impacting their decision to book and helping your property stand out.
Effective Strategies for Hotels
To harness the potential of short-form videos, hotels can implement several strategies:
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Showcase Unique Selling Points: Highlight distinctive features such as luxurious spa facilities, gourmet dining options, or breathtaking views. For instance, Radisson Hotels created a 15-second promotional video emphasizing their exceptional amenities, providing viewers with a quick yet comprehensive glimpse into the guest experience. (fewstones.com)
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Leverage User-Generated Content (UGC): Encouraging guests to share their experiences through short videos can amplify authenticity and trust. User-generated content often resonates more with potential guests, as it offers genuine insights into the hotel's offerings.
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Engage Through Storytelling: Crafting narratives around guest experiences, local culture, or behind-the-scenes glimpses can create emotional connections. These stories make the content relatable and memorable, fostering a deeper engagement with the audience.
The Henn-Na Hotel in Maihama, Tokyo Bay, is an example of a hotel with an especially unique selling point—you're checked in by dinosaurs! @GoForLaunch expertly captured the whole experience, taking their experience viral.
Enhancing Engagement and Reach
Engagement metrics are crucial indicators of a video's success. Short-form videos generate 2.5 times more engagement than long-form videos. (quickcreator.io) Additionally, incorporating trending music, hashtags, and challenges can further boost visibility and interaction. Hotels that actively engage with viewers through comments and shares foster a sense of community, enhancing brand loyalty.
Stuck on how to maximize the discoverability of your videos? Check out our webinar all about Social Media SEO 👉.
Case Study: Naturhotel Forsthofgut's TikTok Success
An illustrative example of effective short-form video utilization is the Naturhotel Forsthofgut in Leogang, Austria. Dubbed the "ultimate Instagram hotel," its breathtaking visuals and strategic use of TikTok have significantly boosted its popularity. The hotel's short videos showcasing stunning alpine views and unique amenities have captivated viewers, leading to increased bookings and brand recognition.
The Future is Video, and It’s Already Here
Online videos already dominate digital traffic, making up more than 82% of all travel-related content. If you haven’t already embraced this shift and transformed your viewers into loyal guests by showcasing the unique charm of your hotel, what are you waiting for?
Why Choose Creators by CrowdRiff?
Creators is a fully managed platform dedicated to streamlining video production from start to finish. Forget the complex logistics because we handle everything from creator sourcing, content curation, and a quick turnaround, allowing you to focus on what matters most: providing guests with the best experience possible. Our video content is tailor-made to be authentic, converting views into bookings and boosting your bottom line.
Incorporating short-form video content into marketing strategies is no longer optional for hotels and resorts aiming to stay competitive. These videos not only enhance engagement but also play a crucial role in influencing booking decisions.
By showcasing unique features, leveraging user-generated content, and crafting compelling narratives, hotels can effectively connect with modern travelers, driving both discovery and bookings.
