Tourism Kamloops at Crowdriff's SEE Conference: The Conference for Destination Makers
In October, members of the Tourism Kamloops marketing team packed their bags and headed to Austin, TX, for SEE by CrowdRiff. So, why did we make the trip? It was simple: this conference was all about what we stand for—authentic storytelling and innovative marketing.
SEE delivered a jam-packed agenda full of expert insights and game-changing ideas. Year after year, they bring together industry leaders to explore hot topics like digital marketing, artificial intelligence (AI), and user-generated content (UGC). This year’s lineup featured inspiring presentations from Tourism Cares, Google, TikTok, and Dang Creative. These weren’t just surface-level talks; they dove deep into the future of tourism marketing, from harnessing AI to personalize traveller experiences to maximizing UGC for building trust and inspiring wanderlust. With real-world case studies and actionable strategies, it was a masterclass in leveling up marketing approaches.
But SEE wasn’t all about sitting in on sessions. Interactive workshops, lively panel discussions, and networking opportunities connected us with industry peers and sparked fresh ideas. Whether it was decoding trends, exploring new tools, or rethinking storytelling strategies, we left energized and inspired.
Ashley’s biggest takeaways were full of inspiration! First, some of the best content ideas come straight from your audience—your comment section on your social channels and blogs is a treasure trove of stories. Second, TikTok continues to reign as the ultimate platform for connecting with Gen Z. With #TravelTok topping the charts, this generation wasn’t just scrolling; they are planning their adventures. If you’re not on TikTok, you’re missing a major chance to inspire the next wave of travellers!
Tianna’s key takeaways emphasized the importance of authentic connections and leveraging diverse channels to amplify them. Instagram’s Explore page is emerging as the new search engine for younger generations, making it crucial to adapt content for this audience. Video has become the universal language, and authenticity is no longer optional—aligning your values with your communication and being real is essential to stand out in Instagram’s world of curated perfection.
To take this further, focus on creating meaningful, actionable experiences that reflect your values and resonate with your audience. This strategy not only deepens connections but also cultivates loyalty, transforming your audience into dedicated fans. Additionally, diversify your platforms to reach your audience more effectively. Beyond social media, small businesses can maximize their Google My Business profiles by utilizing features like Google Posts, and “See what’s in store” to showcase their products to enhance visibility on Google Search and Maps.
In today’s ever-evolving digital landscape, the opportunities to share your stories and spark inspiration are endless!
SEE provided us with fresh ideas, smart strategies, and cutting-edge tools to showcase Kamloops as a must-visit destination. For us, it was a can’t-miss opportunity to stay ahead of the curve and ensure Kamloops continues to shine as a vibrant, authentic destination for travellers seeking Room to Roam.
