Blog
New Year, New Trends: Things to Avoid in 2018
Whether you have recently renewed your website or have just opened up your business - you need a strategic plan to get those bookings and make sure that you are not turning those customers away. Here are five mistakes every activity operator should avoid to make success in 2018:
1. Not Updating Your Website’s Content
Nobody likes to browse a website that has no life. More than three quarters of travellers like to do their share of research online to get a ‘feel’ of your service before contacting you. Remember that this is the first impression of your business - so make the most of this to appeal! Add visuals and content that compliment your services and can encourage the visitor to make a booking
2. Charging a ‘Booking Fee’
You are annoying your customers! Try including the booking fees in your total price - your customers don’t care whether your tour costs $150 or $160 but they will care if there is a cost of $150 + an additional cost of $10. Your job is to make life easier for them.
3. Unnecessary and Lengthy Booking Forms
Your booking form is a critical component of your business. A call-to-action ‘Book Now’ button should be easily accessible/visible throughout your website. The booking form itself should be an easy as possible to be fill out - don’t ask questions that are not necessary! Using a booking system like RTBS can improve this booking experience for them. Other links on your website that give more information are also fundamental such as ‘Customer Reviews’.
4. Not Following Up a Customer After a Reservation Is Made
Craft a warm, personal yet automated message as a follow-up. Thank them for booking with you and let your warm personality shine through by inviting them back. Long term customer relationship become much easier once you take that first step of follow-up.
5. Fishing Where the Fish are
Market and market your activity business! Tourist rich areas such as backpackers, hotels, i-Sites, city sights, bars, airports etc. offer the right spaces to advertise your services. Go one step beyond brochures and flyers by partnering with agents, concierges and local agents who can resell your services for a commission fee. Remember also to go mobile with booking systems such as RTBS!