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The digital age has transformed the tourism business, and every day we are getting closer and closer to an online-driven future. At the turn of the century, a holiday meant starting with a trip to the local travel agent. This is far from the scenario we are in today, where more than 70% of tourists search the web for information on tours and activities before booking anything. Traditional tour operators would, therefore, need to renovate their delivery of services by adopting digital. 

So, how can you get maximum bookings from your customers in 2017? Here are some tips to get you started:

1. Have a website

There is no denying that your website is the first point-of-contact for your customers, and therefore creates the first impression of your activity business. Having a good-looking website that is easy to use is crucial in building a good rapport with your potential customer.

2. Share the experience through an amazing high-quality video or virtual tours

We all love a bit of sneak-peak into what we should expect. According to a recent HubSpot survey, in the next few years, we will see so much growth in videos that it take up to 74% of the total web traffic. Having a video not only gives a personality to your website, it drives leads and boosts the customer’s confidence with your business.

3. Be visible on social media. Get ratings and comments

Having social media profiles not only improves the visibility of your business but also provides a broad platform to get ratings and reviews, which are one of the most trusted factors that customers rely on in the digital space.  

A follow-up email after the booked tour encouraging the customer to share their experience on social media, or Trip Advisor will help your business. Other examples of getting ratings include surveys, feedback forms, and Twitter retweets.  

4. Customer communication

Customers these days want to engage more with the businesses they are investing in, look up their social media profiles and communicate with the company before they embark on their booked activity. Booking confirmation emails, feedback requests, promotional offers are some of the ways to communicate effectively with travellers and build a lasting impression.   

5. Use a reservation system

Think of it like a customer. Do you really want to fill up a website enquiry form after clicking a ‘Book Now’ button? Using a reservation system cuts down all the paperwork of a booking process, by automating it for both you and the customer. Whyte Waters’ Real Time Booking System allows bookings to be done from your website.

To chat with a Whyte Waters Group representative on how a booking system can transform your business,
call us today on +64 3 441 4733 or drop us a line at admin@whytewaters.com.