Couldn’t attend Blog World this year? Don’t worry – here are some of the best insights I took away from the event:

> When someone types in a search query, they’re giving you the opportunity to solve their problem.

> Most website traffic is from first time visitors – make sure you have a way to involve them immediately.

> Present your blog and social media presence as a way for people to connect with their peers, not just receive your marketing messages.

> Employee blogging is more powerful than executive blogging. According to Edelman research, readers find them five times more credible. Get your team involved.

> Involve your sales team in your social media marketing efforts.

> Use video to convey emotion or compelling visuals that are hard to show through written words.

> Content is the most important element of a good online community. Making sure that content is easy to find in search engines is next.

> Don’t spend time on the technology – focus on the content.

> People probably don’t want to join your social networking “club” – but they do want solutions to their problems. Provide free access to your answers.

> If you want to win the search rankings game, write in the language of the customer.

> The greatest selling tactic is the similar situation story.

> The web is a perfect market research environment. Ask your fans what they want, and they’ll tell you.

> Publishing rhythm is important online: find a schedule and stick with it.

> Consider using multiple sites/blogs for each of the niche audiences you’re trying to reach.

> To succeed online, you must keep re-inventing yourself. Don’t be afraid to try new things.

> People admire complexity, but reward simplicity.

> Sometimes, blogs are a better discovery mechanism than a selling platform.

> Don’t force your readers to leave one network (ex: Facebook) for another (ex: your blog). Figure out a way to be where your readers already are.

> We are natually visual learners. Create content appropriately.

> Create relationships with “firestarters” – influencers that can quickly spread your message.

> Leverage social proof. Everyone likes what everyone likes.

> Never burn bridges – the travel industry is a very small world.

> Spend time building your expertise and core competencies. Study and learn.

> Don’t do something unless you’re the best in the world at it. If someone else does something better, use their services. Focus only on what you do best, and outsource everything else.

> Giving all the time without selling is an unhealthy relationship. (Your hotel needs to monetize your blog and social media presence.)

> Internet marketing isn’t really that difficult. It’s all about consistent execution on the tactics you know work.

> Do something consistently good every day.

New York’s Pod Hotel has started using an online forum that allows guests to meet each other before arriving.

The budget hotel, which caters to the young, hip crowd, offers many high-tech amenities: iPod docking stations, free WiFi, and flat-screen TVs.  But its PodCulture forum is most innovative.

After registering, guests are sent an email with a code that allows them to register on the forum. Once there, they can begin communicating with other guests under categories such as “Eat With Me” and “Shop With Me.”

The full story from The Globe and Mail contains even more information on the broader trend of making your hotel a destination.  I’d recommend you take a moment to read it.