In the hospitality industry we “buy what we sell.” That means at some time every year we are tourist for business or pleasure. This is an important advantage because we know “what works for us” as tourists. We can use that experience as a tourist in your business. One experience that have all experienced in recent years is not booking a tour until very close to the visit date. In our just in time society it can be difficult to sell your product or service. Of course there are a number of ways to adapt your marketing to what can called “just in time tourism.” Just in time can mean visit date or getting information to the operator when they need it.

Tour operators developed their current catalogues and tours often the previous August. Tour operators working with student groups will be selling  spring tours in the winter of the previous year. So getting timely information to these operators is important for your long-term sales goals. A well-written profile sheet with an 18 month calendar of events can serve both tour operator groups. Don’t forget to distribute your information to your local Visitors Bureau and the State of Ohio.

Annual mailings or newsletters can also get the word about. But once again, for a new traveling exhibit or program information could be sent to operators in late spring. With today’s technology it is easy to customize that information to particular target groups, such as senior citizens, students, veterans, etc. Electronic newsletters can be also be effective. But like any other information carefully target the message to the operator and when that information is sent. If you use this strategy, there is a greater likelihood your information will not instantly be deleted or thrown out.

Keeping your web page up-to-date with this information too. Operators are using web pages as a way to quickly decide if they should visit your business. So be certain the “group tours” section of your web page is easy to find and keep the information current. If you can scan your profile sheet onto your web site. A profile sheet focuses on the basics of what you have to offer, the 5 “W’s” – who, what, when, where, why.