Hey there, tourism friends, it has been a while since I last posted!
And given that I've woken up this morning to a hard frost on the ground, I thought it would be a great time to talk about off-season marketing.
Every tourism business faces the challenge of the off-season. But instead of seeing it
as a slow period, why not view it as an opportunity to innovate and attract visitors in new ways? Here are some tried-and-true strategies to help you make the most of the off-season and keep your business thriving year-round.
1. Host Special Events and Festivals
Create unique events that draw visitors during the slower months. Think themed festivals, seasonal workshops, or local culture days. For example, a winter festival with ice sculptures, hot chocolate tastings, and local crafts can turn a typically quiet period into a bustling time.
2. Offer Attractive Discounts and Packages
Everyone loves a good deal. Create special off-season packages that offer great value for money. Bundle accommodations with local experiences, dining, or adventure activities. Discounts for longer stays or mid-week bookings can also entice visitors who have more flexibility in their schedules. Add in extra value rather than discounting if you think customers would enjoy this - need to keep your customers warm? How about a free beanie with purchase? Or a free hot drink with main meal?
3. Promote Unique Seasonal Experiences
Highlight what makes your destination special during the off-season. Maybe it’s the tranquility and the chance to enjoy nature without the crowds, or perhaps there are unique wildlife sightings or seasonal activities like skiing, autumn colours, or spring flower festivals. Create content that showcases these experiences and markets them to potential visitors. Keep your image libraries up to date so you can maximise these opportunities to showcase the different seasons in your business.
4. Collaborate with Local Businesses
Form partnerships with other local businesses to create comprehensive and attractive packages. Collaborate with nearby restaurants, spas, or tour operators to offer exclusive deals that include accommodation, meals, and activities. These partnerships can enhance the visitor experience and provide mutual benefits. Combine experiences that may last longer than a day meaning your visitors may stay an additional night.
5. Enhance Your Marketing Efforts
Target your marketing efforts towards segments that are more likely to travel during the off-season. Retirees, remote workers, and international travelers often have more flexibility. Use social media campaigns, email newsletters, and targeted ads to reach these groups. Highlight the benefits of off-season travel, such as lower prices, fewer crowds, and unique seasonal experiences.
6. Improve Your Online Presence
Make sure your website and social media channels are up-to-date with information about off-season offerings. Use high-quality photos and videos to showcase what visitors can expect. Consider adding a blog or vlog to share insider tips, itineraries, and testimonials from guests who have enjoyed the off-season charm.
7. Focus on Local Visitors
Don’t forget about the potential of attracting local visitors. Offer staycation packages and promote the idea of a local getaway to people in your region. "See your own backyard first".
8. Create a Loyalty Program
Encourage repeat visits by creating a loyalty program. Offer incentives for guests who return during the off-season, such as discounts on their next stay, complimentary upgrades, or exclusive access to special events. A well-designed loyalty program can build a strong, repeat customer base. Can you launch a referral programme where each guest can invite their friends to visit you for a small discount or value add?
9. Invest in Staff Training and Development
Use the off-season as an opportunity to invest in your staff. Provide training and development opportunities to enhance their skills and improve customer service. Happy, well-trained staff can make a significant difference in the guest experience and help create memorable stays.
10. Gather and Implement Customer Feedback
Take advantage of the slower period to gather feedback from your guests. Send out surveys or encourage reviews to understand what’s working well and where there’s room for improvement. Use this feedback to make necessary changes and enhancements, ensuring that you’re providing the best possible experience when the high season returns.
By implementing these strategies, you can turn the off-season into a time of opportunity and growth. Embrace the chance to innovate, improve, and attract visitors in new ways. Here’s to making every season a successful one!
What else has worked for you? Let us know so we can update this list.
Until next time, keep those ideas flowing and those guests smiling!
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