Technology has transformed various industries, including travel. In the past, travel agents relied on offline bookings and manual processes, but with the advent of digital platforms, they are now at the forefront of embracing technology and simplifying their business operations. Hotels have moved from the long check-in process to completely contactless check-in and enhanced traveler experience by reducing the wait time and simplifying paperwork.
The first wave of technology companies saw OTA bring an era of digital bookings, but today technology prevents an opportunity for MSMEs in travel to grow their business by going digital and improving the travel experience.
Work with Technology Platforms
Technology platforms targeting MSMEs are fast reducing the gap between small and big travel businesses. These platforms have reduced the cost of starting a travel agency business as agents no longer need to invest in expensive software licenses, hardware, and infrastructure for accessing prices for flights, hotels and packages. Instead, they get all of this for free or at a nominal cost for them and this allows them to increase their business.
Establish an Online Presence:
Gone are the days of relying solely on offline bookings. Travel agents, tour operators and small hotel chains must embrace an online presence by investing in a modern website that showcases their services, expertise, and customer testimonials. They should actively utilize technology platforms that offer customizable features such as flight, hotel, and holiday bookings and allow these businesses to build their personalized websites. By being present online, MSMEs in travel can reach beyond their local markets and tap into a global audience, expanding their customer base.
Leverage Social Media:
Social media platforms provide a powerful marketing tool for travel agents and hotels to generate demand and reach new customers. Platforms like Facebook and Instagram are the perfect place to share engaging content, travel tips, customer reviews, and recommendations with your regular customers and generate demand from new customers. For higher returns, travel brands can leverage social media for personalized engagement with customers, further enhancing their experience.
Offer Personalized Services:
Travelers today look for personalized end-to-end on-ground travel services with customized accommodations, private vehicles, food preferences, sightseeing opportunities, and flexible itineraries. Travel agents can provide a unique and memorable journey for their customers, by tailoring experiences to meet individual preferences. Hotels can add unique experiences like experiential nature walks, activities like yoga / trekking, cooking classes, cocktail lessons based on their expertise and increase their revenue by selling these services as a upgrade on their websites at the time of bookings at discounted rates to offer organic bookings.
Embrace Automation and Efficiency:
Technology can be leverage to automate various redundant, cumbersome or repetitive processes. MSMEs in Travel should embrace booking management systems, customer relationship management (CRM) tools, and secure payment systems. These automated processes reduce manual work, streamline operations, and enable travel agents to handle more bookings efficiently. By leveraging automation, travel businesses can serve a larger customer base and optimize their operations.
Digital adaptation is key to the success of any business in today’s digitally evolving world. By following these five essential tips—working with technology platforms, establishing an online presence, leveraging social media, offering personalized services and embracing automation and efficiency — MSMEs in travel can thrive and grow their businesses. The digital landscape provides opportunities to expand reach, enhance customer experiences, and streamline operations. It is the best time for anyone in travel to embrace digital technologies, adapt to the changing market, and unlock the full business potential.
Source: India Times
