Travel BlogCamp

When you use social media networks like Facebook and Twitter to promote your blog, you’re putting yourself in the firing line for people to be negative about you or your brand publicly, and while you may be sensitive and not like people being critical, you cannot hide behind a rock; don’t respond, and people will look at you or your brand differently.

Always evaluate the criticism or feedback

Unfortunately, there are people who are just abusive and I find it is just best to ignore these individuals. As much as you would love to, you cannot please everyone. Bear in mind that one person’s criticism does not necessarily mean that you should make radical changes to your style of writing or your blog, but, you have to evaluate what was said.

Be responsive to critics

For my latest project, My Life in Leeds, I received a few messages on Facebook and Twitter informing me that I was not providing enough information on the event posts. Numerous people also said that we were writing about the big chains, and not smaller independent restaurants.

I took this on board and then made some changes. Probably more important, I informed the people who were critical. Their response was fantastic and since they have all helped promote the guides and blog posts on Twitter and Facebook, so be responsive to critics, don’t ignore.

Using a blog to manage criticism

I have never rented a car in my life, I can’t drive. So I have never used AVIS to hire a car, but, because of their ‘We try harder’ blog, I would use them because they respond to criticism. A few weeks ago, prior to my first Travel Learning Camp, I noticed a few comments on the blog that were from people criticising their service. All of the comments were replied to.

I think you should make sure that your blog is highly visible on your website, this way; consumers know that they can leave comments, criticism, and feedback. Isn’t it better that this criticism is on your own blog where you can manage it, rather than on a high profile travel forum?

Don’t hide your blog

Many travel companies seem to have a link to their blog hidden away at the footer; probably because they are using it to aid search engine optimisation, rather than using it as a way to communicate with customers. Anyway, those are some of my thoughts and experiences on dealing with criticism on social media networks.

Join me on the next Travel Learning Camp

Share your experiences and learn more about social media in travel. Network with people who work in the same industry. Join us on the next Travel Learning Camp in my home city of Leeds; it’s a great opportunity to learn from other travel companies and two experienced UK travel bloggers.