Travel is different now. Capacity and staffing issues aside, there’s the whole commission thing, service fees and that pesky pandemic is still lingering about. But how do you talk about these issues with your clients in a way that doesn’t scare them off?
So let’s play a little game of Would you rather? Not only a good get-to-know-you game, it’s also a pretty straightforward way to help clients compare and contrast their options (and better see your value).
Would you rather… Pay fees or go it alone?
Service fees are here to stay, but not all travellers understand why you charge them. Start an open discussion with clients about the benefits of using a travel agent. Highlight your expertise, tailored itineraries, and industry connections. Show how you can save time, minimise risks, and add value.
Explain the reasons behind the service fees, assuring them of the value they will receive in return. Consider offering a breakdown of the services provided. It may also be helpful to provide comparisons between self-booked trips and trips planned with the expertise of a travel agent. Remember to highlight potential cost savings and personalised touches.
Would you rather… Prioritise budget or indulge in luxury?
Discuss clients’ preferences for budget-conscious travel, finding ways to save money, or creating a more luxurious experience with upgraded accommodations and amenities. A key thing to highlight to clients is that there’s budget and then there’s value. For the clients going to Antarctica, it’s unlikely they’ll be returning on the reg. So splashing out on once-in-a-lifetime experiences can make for a better journey.
Would you rather… Have flexibility or stick to a schedule?
Understanding your clients’ flexibility is essential in navigating the challenges of capacity meeting demand. By assessing your clients’ flexibility, you can explore alternative travel dates or suggest less crowded destinations to enhance their chances of securing desired accommodations and experiences. Plus, you’ll also get an idea of whether clients prefer a detailed day-to-day plan or a more spontaneous approach to their travel experience.
Would you rather… Play it safe or go off the beaten path?
Popular tourist hotspots may still have restrictions or capacity limitations, so suggesting less crowded or off-the-beaten-path destinations could be a refreshing alternative. By identifying their interests and preferences, you can recommend destinations that offer both safety and unique experiences.
Would you rather… Embrace comfort or seek adventure?
Understanding your clients’ comfort levels and risk tolerance is super helpful to all parties involved. The pandemic still hangs over many would-be travellers. While some may be eager to embark on the same adventures as they did pre-pandemic, others may still feel apprehensive. Assessing their willingness to adapt to new health and safety protocols will enable you to curate a suitable travel itinerary that aligns with their preferences.
Remember, these categories provide starting points for conversations with clients and can help you understand their preferences and priorities. Feel free to customize the questions to align with your clients’ specific interests and travel goals.
And once you’ve got those down, here are some fun ones you can ask (your colleagues too).
- Would you rather… Be able to speak the local language fluently but only while doing a silly dance or have the power to instantly teleport, but you always end up striking an embarrassing pose upon arrival?
- Would you rather… Have a personal butler on all your trips who can grant any travel wish or be able to take the perfect selfie without any effort or editing?
- Would you rather… Only be able to travel by riding a giant inflatable flamingo or have to wear a chicken costume for the duration of your trip?
- Would you rather… Stay in a hotel room made entirely of chocolate or have a private island where all the animals speak like humans?
- Would you rather… Have the power to instantly make your luggage appear at your destination or be able to summon any type of food you crave while on a trip?
