Travel Counsellors Marie Rowe explains how agents can begin to turn things around and look ahead to a successful 2021.
I have lost count of how many times I?ve heard the proverbial phrase ?When life gives you lemons, make lemonade?. It has been commonly used since the pandemic turned everything a little ?sour?. In the spirit of positivity, this is the perfect expression for articulating the process of turning adversity into advantage. In our case, the figurative lemon has been slightly more devastating than a bitter aftertaste, but the mindset required to turn our misfortune into something positive is the same. ?When life gives you a global pandemic to navigate (the lemon), build your reputation for future success (the lemonade).?
Until now, travel agents have been optional. Now, we have industry guru?s speaking words of wisdom in our favour. Demand is about to hit an all-time high and we have a unique opportunity to shine. Here is my recipe for making the perfect metaphorical lemonade (building your reputation for future success).
One Part Visibility
Don?t fall off the face of the Earth just because you?re not busy with bookings. Stay visible, maintain your social media presence and client communications and don?t disappear.
One Part Credibility
Tell everyone you meet how you?ve helped your clients and the value you?ve demonstrated during these times. Ask for testimonials to help showcase the quality of your service and passion for customer care without having to brag about it yourself.
One Part Availability
Make sure people know you?re available. Don?t put your out of office email reply on to say that you?re infrequently checking mails because you?re busy home-schooling (even if you are). Make your customers feel like they?re your priority.
One Part Exclusivity
Stand out by doing something different. Define your niche and offer something special that isn?t the same as every other travel agent is doing. Be you!
