Cranbrook, BC (July 2, 2015) - The City of Cranbrook, along with its partners at The Chamber of Commerce and Canadian Rockies International Airport (YXC), is turning to social media to help fuel the growth of its tourism economy.
A Cranbrook Tourism social media reporters’ network has been established within Cranbrook via a partnership with community ambassadors. Daily content generated by these ambassadors will be featured on Cranbrook Tourism’s Facebook page. The end result will create additional conversations about the destination and tell people about all the activities and things to do in the area, and ultimately increase travel to the community.
“We’ve recruited a collection of locals, tourism ambassadors, who will be generating engaging and sharable content so the Cranbrook Tourism’s social media channels can realize an increase in online activity,” said Kevin Weaver, business & economic development manager for the City of Cranbrook.
Weaver’s office along with the Chamber and YXC have been working diligently over the past six months to formalize Cranbrook Tourism’s efforts, by holding workshops, open houses and meetings with the industry to solidify efforts and form a united front.
Understanding that Cranbrook as a tourism destination is a new concept for some residents, the city hopes that not only will potential visitors become more inspired about the destination’s many attributes, but also the locals who live within the community.
“We have seen this in other communities with great success,” said project manager Allyson Blake of Seekers Media. “While generating engaging, enlightening and ultimately shareable content on social media, not only does it generate interest in the destination from afar, but also within the community.”
“For many it’s a light bulb moment to say to themselves “oh yes, we do have lots of interesting things going on within the community,” Blake added.
Seekers Media is working with the collective to ensure the success of these digital media efforts. Over the past five years, Seekers has helped other communities establish award-winning campaigns with the help of social media reporters’ networks across Western Canada.
Recently, Forbes Magazine posted this article on the power of tourism advertising and how it may be more influential then we think.
Cranbrook Tourism’s social media reporters’ network will also work to bring more attention to the Canadian Rockies International Airport, cementing its position as the gateway to the Kootenays.
“We are excited about this network as it exposes our airport to long-haul travellers while also reminds locals about the convenience factor of YXC,” said Tristen Chernove, Canadian Rockies International Airport General Manager.