Most vacationers may only intend to visit your place of business once.
But, according to a cheapflights.com poll of 1053 Americans, 85% of respondents said they consider returning to places they have visited.
Good weather and good prices are two of the top ten reasons.
You can’t control the weather, you may be able to control the prices, but you do have full control over the customers’ experience! Make it a memorable one and give travelers reason to return.
Even better, give them reason to add to your digital portfolio with raving reviews on Yelp, Foursquare, Trip Advisor and on their own social media pages.
| More than 37% of those polled said they visited the same attractions, with more than 43% eating at the same restaurant on repeat visits, one in five eating the same meal again and one in 10 staying in the same hotel room. – USA Today |
Create Loyal Customers
There are likely a lot of ways you and your staff can think of to WOW your customers, and it’s always good to try to come up with some fun ideas to make visitors feel special (and regular customers too!).
But, most folks say the following 5 simple behaviors are those that make them return to their favorite vacation spots and become loyal customers to area businesses:
- Be welcoming and genuine
People are unsure when in a new place. Welcome them. Make them feel comfortable. Have your staff ask them where they are from, why they are visiting, what they have done while in town. Encourage staff to find a connection and share a bit about themselves as well. - Listen
When asking those questions, train your staff to really listen. If they hear that they are celebrating a special occasion, surprise them with a gift. A piece of cake with a candle, a special cup or glass, or a freebie for an appetizer on their next visit. Or if the customer is unsure about an item on the menu, give them a sample. - Offer vacationer specials – special tours, discounts, an app
Whether it is a discount for returning to your place, or a discount for another business in town, keep your visitor engaged with you by having ‘specials’ just for out of towners. Encourage them to share their good fortune on their social media pages. - Gain trust
Steps 1-3 are the foundation to building trust. Following through on what you say or promise is the best way to building trust. Be honest and transparent – it is what people are craving today. - Always say thank you
Everyone wants to feel appreciated. A simple thank you goes a long way. If getting their mailing address or email is possible, send a personalized thank you to them for visiting with you. And invite them back! It takes a small amount of time, but reaps huge rewards!
There will always be people who are ‘just passing through’ – but don’t let an opportunity pass you by to have them stop in again sometime in the future! Or to tell their friends to visit with you!
Create loyal customers every single day!
How does your business create loyal customers? Share below!
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