It’s no question that social media is now the modern platform for advertisement. The great thing is, it doesn’t cost a dime. But…how do you use it to your advantage? We’re about to tell you.
The first question you are asking yourself is “do I REALLY need an Instagram account for my listing?” The answer is plain and simple: yes. In today’s day and age, visual marketing is going to be your best friend, and this is exactly why Instagram comes in handy.
Check out some of our favorite Airbnb Instagram pages to gather some inspiration before you get started:
1. GetAway Frame
We love how this account created personalized hashtags for their listing to make it easy for their guests to share their experience. Most of their photos come from user-generated content which, according to Hootsuite, is is any content—text, videos, images, reviews, etc.—created by people, rather than brands.
2. Lilypad Palm Beach
We love this account because not only are all the photos gorgeous, but they showcase the finer details of the property and allow the potential guest to step into the world that that place provides. For instance, one photo displays two glasses of champagne and another, a relaxing massage.
3. Mr. Cigar Loft
This account is great because designer and host Ron Goh has created a brand around both his personal life and his Airbnb listing. By following his page, you get sprinkles of the amazing New Zealand loft as well as his amazing travel experiences!
Now, let’s get into the details.
The Instagram Bio ⠀
Turn your personal Instagram account into a "business account" by going to Profile --> Account --> Business Account and then add in all the relevant info under Edit profile --> Public Business Information (change category to "Travel Company," add contact info, etc.)⠀
Add your location and Airbnb name next to your name so that you are more likely to pop up under the search bar! Go to Edit Profile --> Name. ⠀
Use the website feature to put a link to your Airbnb listings page! Go to Edit Profile --> Website to make the change.⠀
Your Posts⠀
Always add a location to your posts and tag relevant accounts! ⠀
Post a variety of content including photos, videos, and graphics. Edit your photos with the same "style" so your profile looks cohesive. Canva is a free tool for creating gorgeous graphics. ⠀
Make sure a few posts include your face or the faces of your guests! According to Hubspot, photos showing faces get 38% more Likes than photos not showing faces.
Your Captions⠀
Make sure your first sentence is catchy, witty, and fun. Try beginning with "Imagine if..." or "Did you know..." and always add VALUE to whatever you decide to share. ⠀
Finish your caption with a call to action. Let your followers know what they should do next! "Click the link in my bio!" or "Book now!"
⠀Add 15-20 hashtags at the end of each post or in the first comment. Use locational hashtags and Airbnb-relevant hashtags like #airbnbhost #bestofairbnb and #shorttermrental !
Instagram Stories ⠀
Try to post to your Instagram story around 3-5 times throughout the day. Use it to show photos of your listing, dig deeper into valuable info, and share behind the scenes! ⠀
Add a location and a relevant hashtag to your stories so more people will see them! After creating a story, go to the square in the upper right hand corner to add these features. ⠀
Use face filters and gifs to add a fun component to what you share! Showing your face will help viewers connect with you on a deeper level. ⠀
Engagement⠀
Try to spend around 30 minutes a day responding to comments and Instagram stories, commenting on posts in your feed, and checking direct messages!⠀
Find NEW accounts to follow and engage with by going to your "Discover" tab or typing in a relevant hashtag in the search bar! ⠀
Try to be as authentic as you can with your comments. Spend time on your reply so that the account knows it's heartfelt and meaningful. Use emojis to be expressive! ⠀
We hope this provided valuable information with how to use Instagram to get more bookings! When used to its full advantage, Instagram is a great tool for Airbnb hosts that shouldn’t be ignored. Check out our services page to learn about how we can market your Airbnb property for you!