Brittany Lauro, social media manager at Discover Newport, has been selected for a “30 Under 30” award by Destination Marketing Association International, the trade association for official destination-marketing organizations worldwide.
Why did you decide to pursue destination marketing?
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What I love most about this field is that it comes with a lot of team spirit. It’s not hard to promote something when you, and everyone around you, love everything about it, but there are strategic marketing methods to doing so successfully. I wasn’t as nuanced in those marketing techniques two years ago when I first applied for this position, but I did know that Discover Newport had an amazing opportunity that seemed well-suited for what I was studying in school.
Can you offer some advice for businesses new to social media marketing?
Don’t try to do too much, too fast. If you’re just starting out, choose a few of the most popular platforms (make one of them Instagram) and work on building a dedicated audience there. Stick to your brand. Show your human side. Oh, and #hashtag (in moderation!).
What is most rewarding about your role with Discover Newport?
Watching the content I post resonate with our followers. People tend to think social media is more negative than positive, but I start every day by reading the comments on a gorgeous Newport photo we posted the night before and I always love the reactions. It’s usually variations of, “Newport is the best place on earth” or “Newport is my forever home.” It’s clear we’ve made a positive, emotional connection – not a bad way to start my day.
What is your greatest challenge as a destination social media marketer? How do you overcome that challenge?
If I had one wish it would be for more hours in the day (much like anyone else). My role as a social media marketer means managing multiple platforms and creating original content for each of them. It may not sound it, but it requires a lot of time and focus. Elaborate, color-coded content calendars have become my ultimate timesaver. •
