Tips for a Successful 2009!

While it's important to look for new clients in today's challenging economy, it's also crucial to keep your current clients happy.

1. Send a thank you note or email to each client after their trip to thank them for their business. This is also a good time to ask for ideas for their next trip or referrals.2. Relate to your client on a personal level by remembering their birthday or any other special event in their life.

3. Watch for special offers or interesting tidbits on a destination your client mentioned they would be interested in visiting.

4. Keep a file on your clients' preferences so you don't have to ask which airline or seat assignment they prefer.

5. Build your email database as it is often the easiest and most cost effective way to reach your customers.

6. Create a short monthly or quarterly newsletter with helpful travel hints, specials and a feature destination article that will entice your clients.

7. All communications to clients should have a "call to action" by including a special promotion available for a limited time only.

8. Block group space on popular theme cruises, and target affinity groups that share a common interest related to the theme.

9. Join a business networking organization to meet new potential clients in your community.