Business travelers and tourists need ways of saving money. Small business owners need ways of making money.
What is the common ground? How can you convert business travelers and tourists into customers?
Attracting tourists to your small business
Constant Contact’s Director of Small Business Success, Dave Charest, gave us his top ideas. Constant Contact is an email marketing software company.
1. Make it a great experience
If someone is visiting the area for a short time or staying a while, ensure that their check-in at your business is impeccable.
Charest stated, “You want to create an experience that people will talk about.” Charest said, “That will make them want to come back, whether during the current stay or in the future.”
2. Variety the Deal
You may offer different types of deals depending on the customer’s situation. Are they long-term travelers or pass-throughs?
Charest stated that a restaurant or bar could offer a deal for multiple people in one week or for those who live far away.
3. Be transparent about business decisions
You can explain why you feel the pinch of inflation by explaining. Social media and your business can be used to do this. Customers are likely to be facing the same problems as you.
Charest stated that customers could often relate to each other, and they want you to succeed. Allowing customers to understand your struggles and offer support is an excellent way of building solid relationships and maintaining loyal customers.
4. Pay attention to the small details
Charest described tourism in terms of an industry heavily influenced and influenced by word-of-mouth.
He said, “Focus on the experience overall, and the small details can make it more appealing to people to refer to your business.” Allow your staff to impress guests by doing little things that make your business stand out. This will make your business the go-to place.
5. Initiate a Referral Program
Charest stated that small business owners could launch a referral program. This would allow customers to earn a small discount or kickback for recommending their business.
6. Expand Email Marketing
Charest stated that email marketing is a great way to communicate with customers, even if they are passing by.
7. Partner with other businesses
Charest stated that the right small companies could work together, especially in their marketing efforts, to create new business opportunities for all involved.
8. Mass Advertise Deals
Charest recommended reaching out to customers through email lists, local newspapers, and social networks. Mass advertising can inform customers about special deals and allow them to take advantage.
Charest stated, “For instance, I heard of a rock climbing gym next to a brewery. A hand stamp from the gym will give you a discount at this brewery.” Co-branded promotions can help each other, even though these businesses may have different customer lists and email addresses.
9. Highlight Upscale or Unique Experiences You Offer
Charest stated that if you have something unique to offer the region, it should be known. If your business provides a more “grab-and-go” experience, ensure that it is smooth and meets your customers’ needs.
10. Collect Email Addresses
You can do more with your email addresses than just providing information about upcoming events or promotions.
Charest stated that you could also reach out and survey your customers to learn what they like best or what could be improved. This information will help you attract more people and drive repeat business.
