Lesson 15: Promotional Strategies
Completion requirements
Unit 3
Promotions
Lesson 15: Promotional Strategies
"Being the best-kept secret is not a good strategy when you're in the tourism industry." ~ David Kenney
Tourism competition and new offering is increasing every day. That is why it is increasingly important to identify market niches to set an attraction or market apart from the rest. Using knowledge of the types of tourists who might choose a destination for their trip, tourist organizations can concentrate their efforts on achievable goals. Knowing the particular hobbies and interests of the tourist allows the travel business to more easily reach potential clients through social networks which are structured around common interests.
The next step is to organize these actions into a strategy that allows the business to achieve success without the need for large financial investments but rather through investing the energies intellectually. More than money, a strong will and determination can make the difference between success and failure in this competitive market.
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Online Booking & Payment
Find the Magic
Each place has its own unique peculiarities, even if it's not as grand as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Perhaps the magic is in a local thematic festival? Or a culturally rich community? Municipalities and small towns need to be imaginative in how to tie their identity to some event strategically designed to attract visitors. Find the special magic and share it.
Host a Blogger Trip
Tourist destinations that do not have an Internet presence are missing out on countless opportunities. One of the best ways to generate this online presence is through blogger outreach. By hosting bloggers in your country, you can have them promote your tourism industry on the Internet with articles and hashtags on social media.
Create a Social Media Presence
As soon as social media emerged, entirely new strategies with regard to marketing were introduced. Being present as a tourism business on social media is key to getting more eyes on your services and products. While it may be tempting to self-promote in every post, it is better to adhere to a 1-7 rule. After each promotional post, businesses must be sure to input seven informational content posts without too much promotion. The result will be a gain in followers with valuable content which will ultimately promote the business in the process.
Have a Modern Looking Website
It's no secret that having a professionally renovated website is key to drawing in the contemporary tourist. People want to see high-quality photographs with detailed descriptions and cost breakdowns before they make a decision on where they can travel. Be sure to have a website professionally designed and maintained in order to draw the most traffic.