Nothing conveys hospitality more than a welcome smile and a handshake. Although this has been the tried and true method of displaying your friendly side, in today’s social age, more interaction takes place online via mobile devices than in person. According to Statisfacts, a national apartment-resident survey firm, 53.9% of renters prefer their cell phones as a primary contact method. We interact online more than ever but the opportunity to engage with residents and prospects still remains. Shifting one’s mindset to create a welcoming front online is an approach many brands are adopting in order to be perceived as hospitable and inviting. For leasing professionals and property managers, this is vital to ensure that prospects convert to residents and residents are retained.

What online strategies are you implementing to roll out the welcome mat and make your audience feel at home? How are you humanizing your brand using social media?

Town Hall Meetings via Twitter are a great way to keep your finger on the dial regarding resident sentiment. Not only does this encourage open dialogue, but a Twitter chat with a custom #hashtag is free brand exposure for you. Your social-savvy residents will find this not only refreshing, but also convenient for their lifestyle.

Facebook Updates and Events not only work wonders in keeping your audience engaged, they allow you to share community-related news and events such as repaving the parking lot or the upcoming Social Network Happy Hour.

Moving Tips via Pinterest will take some of the pressure off of incoming residents! Immediately after he or she signs their lease, send your new resident a link to a Pinterest board you’ve created. Sharing pins that link to articles and blogs with packing tips, décor inspiration and places around the city are sure to help them settle in.

Incentivize with Foursquare! Sit back and watch the number of times residents check into your community. This not only creates a bit of competitive fun, it also keeps your community on the minds of your residents. Offer a $25 gift card to the “Mayor” of your community every month or offer he or she a special parking space.

Chotchkies are a universal, no-fail gesture of benevolence. Have something to hand out to your residents and prospects when they come into your office.