By Michele M. Cartwright, CTA, MCC, VTA, President and Founder, Destinations by Design and member of The Travel Institute’s Professional Educators Program.
As a travel advisor, your success often hinges on the experiences of your clients and, just as importantly, on their willingness to share those experiences with others. I believe the power of a positive review cannot be overstated. It not only enhances your credibility but also attracts new clients who are eager to embark on their dream vacations. Here are my top five strategies to inspire your clients to leave glowing reviews.
1. Create a Seamless Experience
The journey toward a positive review begins long before the trip itself. From the first consultation to the post-trip follow-up, ensure that every interaction is smooth, professional, and personalized. By providing an exceptional level of service and anticipating your client’s needs, you lay the groundwork for a positive review. Remember, happy clients are naturally inclined to share their great experiences.
2. Ask at the Right Time
Timing is everything. The best moment to request a review is when your client’s excitement and satisfaction are at their peak. This could be on the day they return from their vacation or a day or two after they return from their trip. A heartfelt follow-up email or a friendly phone call expressing your hope that they had an amazing time can segue smoothly into a request for feedback.
3. Personalize Your Request
I use email templates to request reviews from clients. While automation is efficient, this is one area where we want the ability to customize our request for a review to our clients. Clients are more likely to respond to a request that feels personal and genuine. Reference specific aspects of their trip that you helped organize, such as a special activity or a unique accommodation. This not only shows that you remember and care about their individual experience but also makes the request feel more sincere. Personal touches go a long way in prompting clients to take a few moments to write a review.
4. Make It Easy
Simplicity is key. Provide clear, easy-to-follow instructions for leaving a review. Whether you prefer reviews on your website, Google, or specific travel review platforms, include direct links and step-by-step guidance in your request. A short, engaging message like, “I’d love to hear about your adventure! It would mean so much to me if you took 60 seconds to let others know about your experience. Not only does it help my business grow, but your experience helps others decide on the vacation they want to plan. Please click here to share your thoughts,” can significantly increase response rates. If you’ve done something special, such as booking hard-to-find tickets to a sold-out event, ask your clients to mention that in their review.
5. Show Appreciation
Always respond to reviews, whether positive or negative. Thank clients for their feedback and address any concerns raised in less favorable reviews. This shows that you value their opinions and are committed to continuous improvement. Engaging with reviews also builds trust with potential clients who see your active involvement.
By implementing these strategies, you can cultivate a steady stream of positive reviews that will enhance your reputation and attract new clients. Remember, the key is to make the process as enjoyable and effortless as possible for your clients. I see firsthand how powerful a few kind words can be in building a thriving travel advisory business. Encourage your clients to share their stories and watch your business grow!
