For travel agents, a strong relationship with tourist boards can open the door to endless opportunities to grow their expertise, provide exceptional service, and build credibility with clients. Tourist boards are treasure troves of information and resources, offering travel agents an edge in a competitive industry. Below, we’ll explore five key ways travel agents can work with tourist boards: FAM trips, destination training, event participation, exclusive offers and incentives, and resource sharing. And this is just the start.
- FAM Trips: Experiencing the Destination First-Hand
Familiarization (FAM) trips are one of the most effective ways for travel agents to deepen their knowledge of a destination. Organized by tourist boards, these trips provide agents with the opportunity to experience what the destination has to offer—hotels, restaurants, attractions, cultural experiences, and more.
Agents can leverage their FAM trip experiences by sharing photos, stories, and tips with clients through social media, blogs, or newsletters. This not only showcases their expertise but also inspires clients to book.
2. Destination Training: Staying Updated and Certified
Most tourist boards host training sessions, both online and in-person, to keep agents informed about the latest developments in their destinations. These sessions can range from webinars on new attractions to in-depth courses that lead to certifications.
Staying educated about destinations shows clients you’re committed to delivering the best advice and experiences.
3. Event Participation: Networking and Knowledge Sharing
Tourist boards often organize events such as expos, roadshows, and travel fairs. These gatherings are excellent opportunities for travel agents to network, learn, and promote their services.
Travel agents can also co-host events with tourist boards to introduce their clients to a destination. For example, a travel agent might organize an evening presentation featuring a tourist board representative who can offer an insider’s perspective.
4. Exclusive Offers and Incentives
Tourist boards often collaborate with suppliers to provide travel agents with exclusive offers and incentives that can be passed along to clients or used as motivation to drive sales.
Highlighting these exclusive offers in your marketing campaigns can create urgency and excitement, encouraging clients to book through you. Special Deals for example discounted packages or upgrades for clients booking with travel agents. Agent Perks such as incentives like bonus commissions, loyalty rewards, or complimentary stays. And Seasonal Promotions that are time-sensitive campaigns that agents can use to boost bookings.
5. Resource Sharing: Accessing Valuable Tools
Tourist boards provide a wealth of resources that travel agents can use to enhance their services and marketing efforts. These resources include: Travel Guides, Maprs and Itineraries, promotional Contents and Insider Tips.
Using these tools allows agents to streamline trip planning, add a professional touch to itineraries, and keep clients excited about their trips.
Building a Win-Win Partnership
By taking advantage of what tourist boards offer, travel agents can not only boost their knowledge and credibility but also create unforgettable experiences for their clients. FAM trips, destination training, event participation, exclusive offers and incentives and resource sharing are just a few ways agents can grow their businesses while supporting tourism in the destinations they love.
Tourist boards are eager to work with agents to promote their regions, so don’t hesitate to reach out and explore the possibilities. When both parties collaborate effectively, everyone benefits—especially the travelers!
Reach out to schedule a one on one conversation if you would like to learn more abaout being a part of the new generation of travel agents.