I am a start-up home based travel agent. Being a start up, my marketing/advertising budget is very small. Any recommendations for getting leads?

ok Let use New Orleans as a destination we are the experts  you need to find say 5 couples and we can put a group trip give you the hotel commission even if we buy hotels but you must find group also corporate sometimes will source out all to one. write me for more [email address]  

Joining the locall Chamber Of Commerce. They offer social mixers free to members. I have received a few new accounts from the chamber mixers. Also groups exist for just business networking. They usually meet for a breakfast or lunch. They assist each other in whatever is on your mind 

Please contact me about your offerings xxx-xxx-xxxx

It comes down to value added, what makes you the reason to do business with? Like any service business networking (Chamber, BNI, just to name a few)  and word of mouth. So make sure you deliver the value. 

Attend chamber of commerce meetings, local tourism groups, networking groups such as BNI, or entrepreneur meetups. You can get many referrals from being in the same room with other small business owners, many events are free or low cost, and you can get a big boost of encouragement. 

get reviews on yelp, and google,  get listed all over the internet by adding your business name to every free search you can find. there is a good list of free search at Manta.  Offer free consults and let the word out

Karen, 

I haven't perused everyone else's answer and so I might be repeating what is already said.  

The reason we all want more leads is because this means more revenue in our business.  A multi level approach needs to be taken.  

 More prospects converted to more leads and more leads converted to more clients / customers.  Then higher sales conversion also needs to happen and this can only happen with a sales system or process. 

When considering how to attract more leads the real question is:  what is the solution that you provide / the problem you solve, what is your competitive advantage, where does your ideal target spend time.  

Once you have established this then you can create a Marketing Strategy.  I personally define marketing as the combination of networking, advertising, public relations and promotions. 

So, the simple answer of "what do I do" is... build a marketing strategy and within that the above components are essential.  

If you would like to discuss this more; feel free to contact me at [email address].  I would be happy to share everthing with you what I have done to help myself and others when they have me asked this question. 

Warmly, 

Ranchelle

Hi Karen, 

Like many responses get the word out via past co-workers, friends, organizations you might have friends as members. Both on your personal and Business page get busy on Facebook. 

We ask everyone for a referral, even after 14 years we feel it’s imperative.

Try to avoid paying advertising / marketing programs. It’s expense and your ROI is low. They don’t know how to promote your personal skills and knowledge.  

Give your card to everyone, be sure it’s not generic- let it pop! Your card needs to be the first impression. 

Being homebased we suggest teaming up with your local coffee shop where you can meet your potential and current clients vs your home. Some smaller independent coffee shops have public notice boards.

If you live in a community/ condo other structured community host a cruise party. Or destination party.

Lastly some suppliers offer a listing under “find an agent” search by zip codes. I’ve had calls from clients in the past from the tool. Suppliers require either you take their training class or have produced sales or some both.

Good luck, people are looking for us - help them find you with Facebook/ Instagram (for us now more powerful) / user friendly web site about you not a supplier website.

Best in your new business!

I would start up a Facebook page with some visual pics of the type of clients you want to attract. Have your friends like your page. You can post your expertise, or if you can provide value to your clients. 

Also align yourself with a great agency, that can get great commissions and has a good reputation. Also ask friends and community for referrals.

Let me know if you have any other questions.

Where are you located? Contact me if you are interested in joining our agency as an independent travel consultant.