5 Tips for Group Travel Organizers To Stand Out
Many group leaders make a business out of their passion, others lead group trips to raise money for the cause, and third use travel to educate the next generation of leaders. YouLi software empowers them to succeed.
When we speak to our community of group travel organizers, a wide term that includes group leaders, destination managers we find that the common theme is the challenge of getting every detail right. Our clients and community really value the customer experience. They know that people can go elsewhere to just book travel, they choose to travel with them because they offer a unique experience.
So what does it take to start a group travel company that stands apart and delivers that unique travel experience? Planning and attention to detail!
With so much choice out there, personal touches make all the difference. Here's a few things our group travel organizers like to do:
1. Require phone number on registration
Collecting their number on registration allows you to call the potential client within 24 hours of registration to answer any questions and really paint a picture of what the trip will be like. About 25% of our clients use this feature and build it into their YouLi workflow.
2. Implement an application process
Many of our group travel organizers actually go one step further and require an application before the traveler is allowed to book in. The Hacker Exchange and Impact Safaris are a good example.
This usually involves a bit more process and a clear outline of the requirements to join the program. But this also allows you to create a sense of value that makes your trip more desirable than another, since they have to earn it.
3. Invite the right people
However you find or screen them, being sure the group will gel and you've got the right personalities for the type of trip your planning. Obviously if you're doing a women-only retreat, that makes it a bit easier to segment.
Sometimes we think our trips are "for everyone" when really we want people who are obsessed with food or love to walk all day. Be honest with yourself about who would really enjoy the program you've put together and then don't be afraid to say no to the wrong travelers.
4. Ensure they've done their homework
Every YouLi client takes advantage of our Task Management module. Instead of sending a FAQ or PDF no one reads, set up a sequence of essential tasks that means your travelers are prepared for the experience you've prepared.
That could be requiring a waiver form. It should mean requiring travel insurance is purchased. It often means some type of training for adventure tours. Don't just trust that people will plan as much as you have, that's your job!!
5. Make a detailed itinerary
Even if you don't share it all with your travelers up front, be sure you've got it mapped out in your version. YouLi itinerary builder allows you to create a version of the itinerary just for the leader that includes all the gory details you need to ensure a smooth ride. If you like, you can expose it to your travelers at the right time before or during the trip. Just use the visibility feature on any item to control who sees it and change at any time.
In our recent profile on Dr. Fiona Hill, a long time Group Travel Organizer, she shared a few words of wisdom:
"Visualize every single day, every step of the day. From breakfast to bedtime. That means thinking about what could go wrong as much as what will give joy. Because when your planning is rigorous, the doing is easy. You can arrive and let it go, putting all your focus on the comfort and well being of your group, and trust your well-briefed in-country colleagues (local tour operator) to smooth the path before you."
- Dr. Fiona Hill - Almanar Consulting - Cultural and Professional Trips
BONUS: Find Supportive Community
To help you navigate the obstacles of launching your adventure brand, surround yourself with the community who will understand your struggles and share advice and ideas.
YouLi travel professional community will help you be aware of the tech underwater stones and network.
Community of retreat planners is hosted by Dr Sheri Rosenthal of Wanderlust Entrepreneurs.
If in need of establishing operational processes, join Katie Broadhurst at Peak Flow OBM.
