Social media’s omnipresence is not only a fact of everyday life, but it’s also increasingly critical to the success of today’s home-based agents. As such it pays for travel advisors to know which particular social media sites work best to connect with existing clients and attract new prospects.

We spoke with two social media-savvy agents—Hao Tang of Greenwood, Colorado-based Besvisor and Stephanie Cannon of Honeymoons Designed in Tulsa, Oklahoma—to discuss their favorite social media sites and the ways in which they incorporate these channels into their agencies’ marketing efforts.

HAO TANG

Which social media site(s) do you prefer and why?

My favorite social media channel to leverage is Instagram. The visual nature of Instagram is ideal for sharing travel inspirations. The Instagram story feature also allows my clients and followers to see places I visit in real time.

What advice do you have for home-based agents about using social media?

I think many people view social media as one single entity or category, not realizing there are specific differences between the various outlets. They re-use the same content across all platforms assuming it will have the same impact, and that’s just not true.

STEPHANIE CANNON

Which social media site(s) do you prefer and why?

My favorites are Instagram and Facebook. Most of my ideal clients are on those channels, and it’s a great way not only to showcase amazing travel photos but also tell a story, let your potential clients get to know you and connect with those who are not located nearby.

What advice do you have for home-based agents about using social media?

Getting your fans to convert to clients is the goal. The way to do that is getting them on your email list, or getting them to contact you. If we have 20,000 fans that means nothing if we don’t have their contact info or if none of them convert to sales.