Word-of-mouth and social media are the best ways to attract new clients, according to research from The Global Travel Group.
A survey of its agency members found four out of five said word-of-mouth was the most effective way to get new customers, compared to web based marketing, newsletters, community events, newspapers, telemarketing and mobile or radio advertising.
Over two thirds of agents ranked social media tools such as Facebook and Twitter as the second most popular marketing channels for new leads.
"Despite a vast array of marketing tools designed to target audiences in every way, shape or form, it seems the age-old standard of word-of-mouth is still the most popular way for businesses to attract new clients, be they a fast food operator a clothing store or in The Global Travel Group’s case, travel agents," said head of marketing Darren Zabinski.
He said the group has revamped its training academy to reflect the trend, including a beefed-up ‘Benefits of Social Media’ session.
