Tourism Marketing

Marketing is essential for the successful promotion of your business or experience. When done right, tourism marketing will ensure you’ll shine amongst your competitors, attract the right customers, and successfully reach your business goals.

Generally, your marketing budget should be anywhere from 10-20% of your business’ revenue. This of course varies depending on the type and size of your business, the industry you identify with, and your end goals.

Tip: Tune in to your marketing return on investment (ROI). Know your goals, have a strategy, and do your research. You need money to spend money so be smart about your spending. Having a plan will help you navigate and budget accordingly.

You have to ask yourself – what’s your why? Why do your customers or clients choose you? What differentiates you from your competitors? Ensure your value is front and center so your audience knows what they’re going to get when they choose you.

Tip: The proof is in the messaging. Create value proposition statements by identifying your differentiators and what makes you special. Then utilize messaging throughout all aspects of your marketing to ensure consistency.

Ensure you have clear messaging of what you offer to potential customers. Then begin building up the necessary outlets to grow your marketing: a website, your Google business page, social media.

Tip: If possible, begin with a website. That’s a space where you control your brand, information, story – all of which you OWN. Then utilize tools like social media to support and direct people to your website where they can get all their questions answered.

Your brand is every thought or perception a consumer has about your business. If you’re in travel and tourism, you’re likely a visual business. It’s important to ensure that your look matches the experience and the messaging you deliver – and that it’s top notch!

Tip: If you’re an established business, consider doing a brand audit

Branding 101 Guide - Brand Audit Download: Three Steps to Auditing Your Brand

If you’re a new startup, establishing your brand should be priority #1!

Selling an experience is different than selling a product. Although you may offer both, knowing how to market each is important. With an experience, evoking emotion and connecting with a potential customer can amplify your customer’s buying journey. This can be done with proper marketing tools and tactics.

Tip: Seek testimonials from your clients. Did someone recently have an exceptional experience while on a guided experience with you? Ask them to share their story either written or via video and share widely! You’ve helped them create memories which will evoke emotion and connect to potential clients.