Luxury Travel Expo: Why You Should Attend

I recently attended an association meeting for tradeshow organizers. Prior to this, I had thought of striking it off my endless to-do list several times for lack of time—there was so much work to get done in the office. Finally, taking into account the uncertain economy, I realized I couldn’t afford to miss the meeting and took three days off. Also, I wanted to see what my co-workers in other companies were doing. I wanted ideas that I could implement in my own business. And, I wanted the opportunity to network face to face.

The objective of this meeting focused on social media, improving ROI and how to manage in a down economy. A large part of the day was spent talking about how to market through mediums such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, blogs, etc. By being part of these communities, you can learn about new clients and retain them. If you’re not part of these communities, your competitor will be. The truth is it’s simple to join, manage and doesn’t cost you a penny.

As the next economic climate is thrust upon us, we are all trying to prove the value of our businesses and services. As a travel professional, you want your clients to have the experience of a lifetime so they return and refer you to their friends. You need to be creative in your sales and marketing approach, and excel in your customer service.

This year’s Luxury Travel Expo program will address these issues. For the first time, we are going to implement four session tracks, namely, sales & marketing, interactive technology, experiential and professional development and executive insight tracks, to help you make the best use of your time at the show. The interactive technology track will include sessions focused on social networking. The sales & marketing track will allow you to walk away with a new way to sell your services and retain clients.

In the current state of the economy, you certainly can’t afford to miss the Luxury Travel Expo. If you’re not there, your competitor will be.
He/she will be the one to pick up a new idea and, in turn, your existing or potential client. It is crucial, now more than ever, to invest in yourself and your business. I’m so happy I realized this because now I’m back in my office implementing some of the things I learned.

To register for Luxury Travel Expo, visit www.luxurytravelexpo.com.

Introducing the Brand New Learning Tracks for Luxury Travel Expo 2009...

Your Luxury Seller's Toolbox for Sales Success

Sales & Marketing: Take home ready-to-use knowledge and tips about agency marketing, top-notch promotions, best sales practices, new marketplace trends, unique revenue streams and the latest luxury travel product knowledge.

Interactive Technology: Learn how to tweet and blog for new social networking contacts and future luxury sales. Utilize your website more effectively to attract luxury clients. Tap into technology for greater efficiency, more effective sales and enhanced customer service.

Experiential: Explore actual case studies and best practices from others who sell luxury travel. Learn firsthand from other travel professionals as to what works and what doesn’t. Learn about niche or unique products of an experiential nature. Soak in firsthand advice from frontline luxury agents and agency owners.

Professional Development & Executive Insight: Enhance your professional skills. Reach your full creative potential in running a luxury business. Expand your knowledge and effectiveness as a travel consultant or agency owner. Garner hot, new intel and trend information from high-level cruise, tour and agency leaders.