1. Advocate for Your Clients' Needs
High net worth clients are used to getting what they want, and as their travel advisor, it's crucial to advocate for their needs. Whether it’s securing a suite upgrade at a five-star resort or arranging a private tour with a world-renowned guide, don’t hesitate to ask suppliers for what your clients require. Your clients expect excellence, and it’s your responsibility to deliver.
Building strong relationships with key hotel personnel is vital. Stacy Small, a luxury travel advisor, emphasizes the importance of direct communication with hotel management.
Building strong relationships with key hotel personnel is vital. Stacy Small, a luxury travel advisor, emphasizes the importance of direct communication with hotel management.
When booking for high-profile clients, I always ensure that the GM is aware of their arrival and know who will be on duty to greet them. It’s essential to have a direct line of communication with someone who can address any issues promptly.
— Stacy Small
Lucia’s Tip:
Utilize the Lucia platform to connect with experienced freelancers who can help forge these critical connections. Our network includes experts with years of industry experience, assisting you in building and maintaining valuable relationships within the hospitality sector.
2. Leverage Hotel Concierge Services
The hotel concierge is a powerful ally in delivering outstanding experiences. They can gain access to exclusive events, secure last-minute restaurant reservations, and fulfill unique client requests.
Small recommends establishing a direct relationship with a dedicated concierge at each property.
Small recommends establishing a direct relationship with a dedicated concierge at each property.
Having a go-to person ensures consistency in service and allows you to provide a more personalized experience.
— Stacy Small
Lucia’s Tip:
If you’re managing multiple client itineraries, consider hiring a freelance assistant through Lucia to handle concierge connections. This allows you to focus on the bigger picture while ensuring top-notch service for your clients.
3. Ask the Right Questions
Matching your clients with the right hotel is an art form that starts with asking the right questions. During meetings with hotel representatives, dig deeper than the standard pitch to find out what truly sets the property apart.
I always ask hotel reps what makes their property unique and what kind of clients they cater to.
— Stacy Small
This approach helps you make informed decisions and ensures that your clients have an experience aligned with their preferences.
4. Focus on the Details
In luxury travel, small details make the most significant impact. Arranging VIP airport greeters, pre-booking dinner reservations, or ensuring a seamless transfer service can show clients you’ve considered every aspect of their journey.
Small often books VIP greeters to ensure a seamless airport experience for her clients.
Small often books VIP greeters to ensure a seamless airport experience for her clients.
A greeter can expedite the immigration process, assist with luggage, and ensure a smooth transfer to their awaiting driver. It’s these little things that make a big difference.
— Stacy Small
5. Monitor Clients' Social Media for Real-Time Feedback
Staying attuned to your clients' experiences is crucial, and social media offers a unique way to gauge satisfaction in real-time. By monitoring their posts, you can quickly identify any potential issues and address them before they escalate.
Many of my clients are active on social media, so I use it as a tool to check in on them. If I notice they’ve gone quiet, I reach out to ensure everything is going smoothly.
— Stacy Small
6. Harness the Power of the Gig Economy
As a solopreneur or small agency owner, managing all facets of luxury travel planning can be challenging. The gig economy offers an effective solution. Platforms like Lucia provide access to a pool of expert hospitality freelancers who specialize in various aspects of the travel industry. Whether you need administrative support, help crafting itineraries, or assistance with last-minute changes, Lucia connects you with professionals who can get the job done.
Lucia is like Fiverr for the travel industry. You can find experienced travel advisors and specialists who can take on tasks you don’t have time for.
— Stacy Small
Lucia’s Tip:
Explore the Lucia marketplace to find freelancers that match your specific needs, ensuring you can provide the level of service that high net worth clients expect.
Elevate Your Service with Lucia
Working with high net worth clients requires a blend of confidence, creativity, and resourcefulness. By building strong relationships with hotel staff, leveraging the expertise of concierges, and utilizing Lucia's platform, you can deliver the exceptional service your clients deserve. Remember, the key to success lies in the details—it’s the small touches that leave a lasting impression.
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