In 2024 we are firmly sailing the waters of the digital era, and as time goes on they will only get deeper and more densely populated. As an independent travel business it’s important to remember you need two oars to keep paddling: on the one hand, successfully navigating and managing your social media accounts and on the other, humanising your business and socials. I’m going to be your diving buddy today as we explore that thing that can sometimes feel like a total shipwreck - showing up as the face of your travel business.
Now more than ever, people buy from people. Although artificial intelligence and online services are getting cleverer, faster and easier, travel is still a very personal and physical thing. It is one of the few industries that retains a human connection element by its very nature, so if you want to continue to set yourself apart from the shoals you’ll need to lean into this.
I understand that showing up as the face of your travel business on social media can feel turtley intimidating, so I’ve got a few tips for you to make it easier! Remember you can find your own groove when doing this, and you don’t have to do livestreams or talk to the camera every day if you don’t want to. Telling your own stories and those of your customers helps set the scene for your audience, all adding to the many reasons they should book their travels through you.
My Top Tips For Showing Up More Confidently ⬇️
Keep It Simple 😊
Feeling shy? If you’re self-conscious about being on camera, try starting with something simple like a photo of your morning coffee or view from your window, and (quite literally!) work your way up.
Stay In Your Lane ⛵️
It's important to remember that no one is as hyper-critical as you when it comes to looking at your content. You’re busy focusing on those baby hairs sticking up, whether your clothes are crumpled or if your voice sounds weird - but everyone else just wants to hear what you have to say, or see the wanderlusty goodness you have to show them.
Get Personal 🌻
Be personal with your content writing and establish your signature tone of voice. For some this will be friendly and casual, for others playful and energetic, and for others mellow and luxurious. Decide what works best for you and your brand (it’s helpful if these are matching), and you can even make a little content bank of words, phrases and emojis to draw from - or to hand over to your social media manager!
Your USP ✨
Keep coming back to your USP (unique selling point) and remind yourself why your customers have chosen you in the past. This will help you stay confident about what you’re selling and how you’re showing up, using evidence to support the fact that you’re shellrific and your audience are here for a reason
Have Real Conversations 💬
Find ways to connect and have real conversations with your community, which will help you feel as though you’re talking to real people rather than a screen full of faceless names. Reply to story reactions, start chats in the DMs and authentically respond to comments and questions.
Make Valuable Connections 🤝
Stay engaged with the winder travel industry too, making connections within your community as well as with your audience. Social media can feel like a lonely place, but being active and engaged helps you feel part of something - with the added bonus of expanding your profile reach
Share Your Own Experiences 🏝️
Don’t try to do too much, too soon. If you’ve never really shown your face or documenting your travels on stories feels new to you, start with just one story or grid post and work your way up. This will ensure you can keep it up, and consistency is the key to confidence!
Thanks for sailing these seven suggestions with me today. While you’re here, why not browse my blog for waves of content to help you market your travel business more effortlessly. You can also check out my content subscription The So-Shell Tribe, designed to elevate your online presence - being in the Tribe will be an amazing confidence booster!
Happy posting islanders 🌺
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