The Value of Business Cards

Almost all of us take our business cards for granted. We all have them and we all use them. But most of us -- do not use them as effectively as we should!

Business cards are one of the least expensive forms of advertising and promotion that we have. Travel Agents should give them out anywhere and everywhere. If you are not using a box of cards every few months, they are not using them enough.

It may be a bit far fetched, but we have atravel agents who give business cards to everyone in the supermarket check-out line and even carry laminated cards to give away when swimming. Travel Agents should carry cards at all times. You should give them to anyone you meet who asks or comments about travel in the supermarket, at the hairdresser or anywhere.

Many local businesses have bulletin boards or tables displaying business cards of local businesses. Display your cards wherever you can. Ask store owners you know if you can leave some by the check out counter.

One travel agent made a deal with Dominos pizza to give $10. Gift certificates and her business card towards travel package or cruise with all pizza deliveries for one month. The gift certificate had Dominos name it. So it look like it was a thank you for shopping from Dominos. But it could only be cashed if the client book a cruise with the agent. You could do that with any store. The $10 or $20. gift certificate thank card from that store cost them nothing. It's a win, win program.

Business cards form the base of an active referral request system. Travel Agents should send thank you notes to all cruise and tour clients. They should ask clients to recommend the travel agents' services to their friends and relatives. Three business cards should be enclosed in each note with a reminder to the client to give them to friends who travel.

While we can't expect all cards to be given out, many will. It is a proven fact that it costs far less to secure repeat and referral business than to attract totally new clients. Clients referred by other satisfied clients will come with built-in trust concerning your ability to meet their needs.

The more business cards are distributed, the more there are opportunities to attract potential clients and expand our client base. Think of it as casting bread upon the water. The more you give out the you get back.Travel Agents wanted FT or PT www.HomeBased-TravelAgents.com