Tourism agency taps into social-networking tools

SCOTTSDALE - The Scottsdale Convention and Visitors Bureau is turning to more online marketing strategies to attract tourists.

The bureau launched a new blog, Facebook fan page, Flickr photo stream, YouTube channel and Twitter account to promote Scottsdale as a world-class travel destination, said the group responsible for bringing in 7 million tourists a year.

"These channels allow us to offer the Scottsdale brand where potential visitors spend their time online," said Josh Kenzer, online marketing manager at the bureau. "Through online social networking, we can provide the Scottsdale experience, bring visitors back to our Web site and engage them in conversations."

The following outlets were chosen because they allow for user feedback and visitor interaction. Additional sites will be considered to ensure the CVB is reaching its customers through the online communities in which they already belong.

Blog: blog.scottsdalecvb.com, a supplement to the CVB Web site, allows for two-way conversations where readers post comments, feedback and questions about member events and Scottsdale news. Content is supplied by the CVB.

Facebook: At www.scottsdalecvb.com/facebook, Scottsdale fans share their own videos, photos and links and connect with each other on their destination experiences.

Flickr: Photos at flickr.com/photos/scottsdale-arizona/ includes candid shots of Scottsdale activities.

YouTube: Videos at www.youtube.com/user/ScottsdaleCVB showcase Scottsdale's tourism amenities, events and members.

Twitter: Daily updates at www.twitter.com/scottsdaleaz feature what's happening in Scottsdale.

The bureau encouraged members to participate by commenting on the blog, becoming a Scottsdale fan on Facebook, and building their own sites to further showcase your business. For more information, contact Josh Kenzer, online marketing manager, at 480-949-6280 or jkenzer@scottsdalecvb.com.