We sell travel. But so do dozens of websites and brick-and-mortar competitors. Get out of the mindset that you sell travel and begin to think like a marketer. You market travel. The sale is a byproduct. And with effective marketing, sales will follow. Look to Apple for proof. Somehow, they create enough marketing buzz to convince people to shell out $1000 every two years for a cell phone! But travel is a bit different. Let’s explore the ten essential qualities that I think will allow you to stand heads and shoulders above the rest.
Passionate Adventurer:
An authentic passion for exploration drives a successful travel marketer. They deeply love travel and can share their personal experiences and education to inspire others. Whether describing a bustling city’s vibrant streets or a remote beach’s serene beauty, your enthusiasm is contagious and motivational.
Cultural Sensitivity:
Understanding and respecting diverse cultures is vital. You must possess an innate curiosity about different traditions, customs, and languages, allowing you to connect with travelers on a deeper level.
Storytelling Wizard:
To be successful, you must weave compelling narratives that transport potential travelers to their dream destinations. Use vivid descriptions, enticing visuals, and engaging anecdotes. You create an emotional connection with your client by effectively conveying the unique stories behind each travel experience.
Strategic Thinker:
This is the dry business end of things, but you must be a strategic thinker and be capable of analyzing market trends, identifying target audiences, and devising effective marketing campaigns. You need to understand the importance of segmentation and tailor your message to the target group.
Digital Savviness:
Even older clients today are digitally savvy, and we must ensure our messages appear where they are. You must adeptly utilize social media, search engine optimization, and online advertising to create a solid online presence.
Customer-Centric Mindset:
Know your client. Use that CRM to its fullest. Invest time in understanding your target audience, their travel preferences, and their pain points. By incorporating the feedback and insights into your marketing strategies, you create tailored experiences that exceed expectations, foster loyalty, and drive repeat business.
Exceptional Communication Skills:
You need to be an outstanding communicator–both written and verbal. You must be able to articulate the value (not cost) of different travel experiences, respond to inquiries with clarity and professionalism, and build relationships with prospects and clients. Leave nothing up to interpretation.
Analytical Mind:
Pay attention to the numbers. They will tell a story. Use key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to evaluate campaign performance, identify areas for improvement, and make data-backed decisions.
Collaborative Nature:
Your competitors can be your friends. Actively seek input from colleagues, draw upon their expertise, and foster a relationship that encourages innovation. Don’t give away any “secret sauce” recipes, but together we can all do better.
Adaptability and Resilience:
A successful marketer is resilient and adaptable. Like a boxer, you must be able to bob and weave to avoid the punches. And we know how the industry likes to throw punches our way. Embrace challenges as opportunities, and quickly adjust your strategies to an ever-evolving marketplace.
Being successful at marketing your agency and expertise requires a unique combination of all the above. By embracing these qualities, you can connect with avid travelers filled with wanderlust and inspire them to realize their travel dreams.
