Senin, 02 Maret 2015
10 Things Your Customers Wish You Knew About Them
by Help Scout
How well do you know your customer?
It's a tough question. One way your business can find answers is to examine research in social psychology. Below are 10 such studies that reveal things your customers WISH you knew about them.
CUSTOMERS VALUE "GOOD" SERVICE MORE THAN "FAST" SERVICE
Recent studies show that customers who receive competent, knowledgeable, and all encompasing services are more likely to remember their experience and tell their friends.
Additionally, customer cited "rude, incompetent and rushed" service as their #1 reason to abandon a brand, 18% more often than "slow" service.
CUSTOMER LOVE PERSONALIZATION, THEY WILL GLADLY PAY MORE FOR IT
In a study from the Journal of Applied Social Psychology, researchers were able to increase the average tips that waiters received by over 23%(without changing service quality).
They accomplished this by having waiters follow up with a second set of mints after they brought customers their check(waiter that brought mints but didn't follow up received an average of 7% less for their tips).
CUSTOMER WILL REMEMBER YOU IF YOU CAN REMEMBER THEIR NAME
Speaking of personalization, according to recent research examining brain activation, few sounds are as pleasant as hearing our own names.
Fact is, people are more attentive(and interested) when they hear their names; be sure your small business takes advantage of getting to know your customers by using their names when appropriate.
THERE ARE FEW THINGS CUSTOMERS TALK ABOUT MORE THAN A PLEASANT SURPRISE
One of the most lasting (and talked about) customer experiences is a pleasant surprise: reciprocity, especially when it's unexpected, is a very powerful force.
Zappos recognize this: without so much as a single mention on their sales page, Zappos regularly upgrades customers to overnight shipping free of charge, just to brighten their day.
CREATING GOODWILL WITH CUSTOMERS DOESN'T NEED TO BE EXPENSIVE
The concept of "Frugal WOWs" is important to small businesses: creating goodwill with customers has proven to be more about the act, rather than the cost.
Nate Ru, founder of Sweetgreen restaurants, regularly has his employees leave small gift cards next to cars with parking tickets to create a memorable brand based on random acts of kindness.
CUSTOMERS WILL STICK WITH YOUR LOYALTY PROGRAMS IF YOU GET THEM STARTED
Consumer psychologists Dreze & Nunes were able to reveal just what makes a loyalty program "stick" across all industries in their now infamous car-wash study.
The researchers were able to show that customers are TWICE as likely to stay with loyalty programs if the programs appear to already be started; tasks that seem to be under way are much more likely to be completed.
CUSTOMERS LOVE BRAND STORIES AND SELLING THROUGH STORIES IS EFFECTIVE
Research lead by Melanie Green & Timothy Brock reveals that a well told story is one of the most persuasive forms of writing(or speaking) available.
They concluded that this was because stories have the ability to "transport" us to another place, allowing brands to leave powerful(and lasting) messages to customers.
"When it comes to storytelling, transportation leads to persuasion."
IF YOU'RE STRUGGLING TO INNOVATE, YOUR CUSTOMERS ARE A GREAT RESOURCE
MIT's Eric Von Hippel conducted a study with the Institute of Management Sciences on the relationship of "lead users" (superstar customers) and company innovation.
Through a study of 1,193 commercially successful innovations across 9 industries, Hippel discovered that 60% came from customers.
SELLING "TIME" OVER MONEY HELPS CUSTOMERS SEE THE VALUE OF YOUR BRAND
There's a reason that inexpensive beer companies promote having a good time(ie, "It's Miller Time!") rather than their low prices.
New research from Stanford reveals that customers have more favorable feelings towards brands they associate "time well spent" with; memories of good times were more powerful than memories of great savings.
IF YOU BRING UP MONEY, IT MAKES CUSTOMERS MORE SELF-CENTERED
Research by psychologist Kathleen Vohs has shown that when people are "primed" with images of money, they become more self-interested and less willing to help others.
This reaction can be used by businesses that sell luxury items, but could backfire with promotions that are associated with doing thingsfor others(ex: Mother's Day Gifts).
Source : Pinterest
Rabu, 25 Februari 2015
7 Things NOT to pack for your mission trip
Written by : CJ & Teri
You’ve bought your plane ticket, raised all your support, and had your team meetings. So much planning has gone into preparing for your trip up to this point, and it's hard to believe that you'll be leaving soon! All that’s left to do: pack.
You probably have a good idea of what to pack (especially if you follow our Packing 101 guide), but what about those few things that you aren’t sure about? Here is a list of some things not to pack for your mission trip.
1) Birth Certificate and Social Security Card
You may be tempted to pack these “just in case.” Resist the urge! Your passport and license will be all you need to travel internationally. And if something ever happens to your passport, a photocopy of your passport will be the most useful, not your birth certificate or social security card.
Not to mention, if you lose your birth certificate or social security card, getting them replaced is a real hassle.
2) Books
You don’t need 6 books and 3 magazines to keep you busy on your mission trip. Yes, reading material is great for the plane ride and down time, but just choose one. You won’t have as much time (or brain power) to read as you think. Carrying several books just weighs down the carry-on that you have to lug through an airport or two.
3) Your entire beauty routine
This one is mainly for the ladies: You don't need your entire beauty routine. It’s okay to pack some makeup and hair brushes, but you won’t need everything. There won’t be any fancy dinners to dress up for, and you're not taking yearbook pictures.
You'll be spending a lot of time working and playing with kids outside. You'll be sweating and getting dirty. Embrace it, don't spend your mission trip trying to cover it up with makeup!
4) Jewelry
You won’t need to wear much (if any) jewelry on your mission trip. Not only can jewelry get lost or stolen, but it can also make you stand out in the community that you're visiting.
Sometimes we don't realize just how much jewelry we wear. Diamond rings, fancy earrings, big watches, pearl necklaces, etc. It all adds up and can send the wrong message to the community that you're serving. You don't want to "stand out" in the community for the wrong reasons, or make anyone feel uncomfortable. For this reason, avoid wearing a lot of jewelry.
5) Gadgets
You don’t need every gadget you use on a daily basis. Phones, laptops, tablets, smartwatches... the list goes on. Leave what you can at home. The goal is to get away from your normal life to dive into serving Christ by connecting with others. This is hard to do if you are on your iPod or computer the whole time.
Plus, if your gadgets require a data plan or wifi, they won’t be too useful anyway (international data plans are expensive, and wifi is not as widespread in developing nations).
6) Fancy clothes
Don't pack fancy clothes, high heels, or any clothing you don’t want to get dirty. It's hard to do construction in high heels or your new skin-tight designer jeans. Whether you're playing with kids in an orphanage or doing construction, you'll want your clothing to be conservative and comfortable.
Note: One exception to this rule would be if you're attending a church service in the community that you're visiting. Ask your trip leader if you need to bring any special, “fancier” clothing for a local church service during your trip.
7) Too many clothes (t-shirts & hoodies)
If you're going on a week long mission trip, you don't need to pack 20 t-shirts. Decide while you're packing what you'll wear on each day, and avoid the, “I'll just pack all of them and decide when I get there,” mindset.
Avoid overpacking on hoodies, too. Hoodies are bulky and take up a bunch of space in your suitcase. If you're traveling to a colder climate, pack only the cold weather clothing that you need. Avoid the temptation to pack 4 hoodies and 3 jackets, “just in case.” You'll never wear them all.
The key
The key to avoid overpacking is not to let the “what if” situations get the best of you. What if I need my birth certificate? What if I get bored on the plane? What if it gets really cold? Pack for the big what-ifs, and don't sweat the small ones. (Easier typed than done, but you can do it.)
Source : preparemymission.com
You’ve bought your plane ticket, raised all your support, and had your team meetings. So much planning has gone into preparing for your trip up to this point, and it's hard to believe that you'll be leaving soon! All that’s left to do: pack.
You probably have a good idea of what to pack (especially if you follow our Packing 101 guide), but what about those few things that you aren’t sure about? Here is a list of some things not to pack for your mission trip.
1) Birth Certificate and Social Security Card
You may be tempted to pack these “just in case.” Resist the urge! Your passport and license will be all you need to travel internationally. And if something ever happens to your passport, a photocopy of your passport will be the most useful, not your birth certificate or social security card.
Not to mention, if you lose your birth certificate or social security card, getting them replaced is a real hassle.
2) Books
You don’t need 6 books and 3 magazines to keep you busy on your mission trip. Yes, reading material is great for the plane ride and down time, but just choose one. You won’t have as much time (or brain power) to read as you think. Carrying several books just weighs down the carry-on that you have to lug through an airport or two.
3) Your entire beauty routine
This one is mainly for the ladies: You don't need your entire beauty routine. It’s okay to pack some makeup and hair brushes, but you won’t need everything. There won’t be any fancy dinners to dress up for, and you're not taking yearbook pictures.
You'll be spending a lot of time working and playing with kids outside. You'll be sweating and getting dirty. Embrace it, don't spend your mission trip trying to cover it up with makeup!
4) Jewelry
You won’t need to wear much (if any) jewelry on your mission trip. Not only can jewelry get lost or stolen, but it can also make you stand out in the community that you're visiting.
Sometimes we don't realize just how much jewelry we wear. Diamond rings, fancy earrings, big watches, pearl necklaces, etc. It all adds up and can send the wrong message to the community that you're serving. You don't want to "stand out" in the community for the wrong reasons, or make anyone feel uncomfortable. For this reason, avoid wearing a lot of jewelry.
5) Gadgets
You don’t need every gadget you use on a daily basis. Phones, laptops, tablets, smartwatches... the list goes on. Leave what you can at home. The goal is to get away from your normal life to dive into serving Christ by connecting with others. This is hard to do if you are on your iPod or computer the whole time.
Plus, if your gadgets require a data plan or wifi, they won’t be too useful anyway (international data plans are expensive, and wifi is not as widespread in developing nations).
6) Fancy clothes
Don't pack fancy clothes, high heels, or any clothing you don’t want to get dirty. It's hard to do construction in high heels or your new skin-tight designer jeans. Whether you're playing with kids in an orphanage or doing construction, you'll want your clothing to be conservative and comfortable.
Note: One exception to this rule would be if you're attending a church service in the community that you're visiting. Ask your trip leader if you need to bring any special, “fancier” clothing for a local church service during your trip.
7) Too many clothes (t-shirts & hoodies)
If you're going on a week long mission trip, you don't need to pack 20 t-shirts. Decide while you're packing what you'll wear on each day, and avoid the, “I'll just pack all of them and decide when I get there,” mindset.
Avoid overpacking on hoodies, too. Hoodies are bulky and take up a bunch of space in your suitcase. If you're traveling to a colder climate, pack only the cold weather clothing that you need. Avoid the temptation to pack 4 hoodies and 3 jackets, “just in case.” You'll never wear them all.
The key
The key to avoid overpacking is not to let the “what if” situations get the best of you. What if I need my birth certificate? What if I get bored on the plane? What if it gets really cold? Pack for the big what-ifs, and don't sweat the small ones. (Easier typed than done, but you can do it.)
Source : preparemymission.com
13 Jobs to Satisfy Your Wanderlust
By : Emily Co
Ever want to just pack your bags and go on a journey you'll never forget? Perhaps you can find the best of both worlds by getting a job that requires a lot of travel, thereby feeding your insatiable need for travel but putting bread on the table at the same time. Read on to find out what careers could satisfy your globe-trotting urges.
Consulting
Consultants are problem-solvers, providing companies with expert advice on everything from management to marketing to IT. You won’t be tied to one company as a consultant; rather, you’ll travel from city to city, visiting the businesses who need your help. These visits may be either short- or long-term, depending on just how much support a company needs.
Travel Industry
It may sound obvious, but if you want to travel, look for a job in the travel industry! This can be anything from working as a flight attendant or a pilot, to working on a cruise ship, to becoming a travel writer. Sure, much of the time you’re traveling, you’re also working, but you’re bound to have time to get out and explore the places you visit. And as a travel writer in particular, getting out and exploring is part of your job!
Recruiting
As a recruiter, you’ll be expected to travel to colleges and universities around the country to recruit the best new talent, whether for a company or for an athletic team. During the peak of recruiting season, you’ll probably spend more time on the road than in your own bed, but during the off-season, you’ll find yourself spending more time in the office.
Sales
While some sales jobs require you to stay behind a desk or in a retail store, others — like pharmaceutical sales — require you to cover a territory, which involves lots of travel. Depending on the size of the company, that travel could involve simply driving to different cities in your geographic area, or it could involve flying to a different state every week.
Teaching English
English teachers are in high demand in many foreign countries, and in most cases, you don’t even need a teaching credential to score this gig. The travel involved in this job is of a different sort — you won’t be seeing a new place every week, but you will get to fully absorb the culture around you. Most of these positions require a year-long commitment, so you could teach for a year in one country and then move on to the next.
Travel Writer
Travel writers seem to have dream jobs — they travel the world and many will get VIP treatment in hopes of a glowing review.
A couple of caveats: Getting a travel writing job is tough and you may need some good clips to start with. Start writing for free or on other topics to see where it'll lead you. While you're establishing yourself, your pay may not be consistent or even enough.
You could also start a travel blog to build up your clips and your rep in the industry.
Au Pair
Take off overseas to become an au pair, which is someone who stays with a host family and exchanges domestic services like childcare for a small salary and free lodging. It's a great way to fulfill your travel fantasies on a small budget.
Diplomat
There are a variety of jobs you can do as a diplomat, some of them being healthcare specialists and administrative assistants. Many diplomats are foreign service officers and have to take a foreign service exam. After you've passed all the requirements, you'll then be evaluated to see if you qualify.
Archaeologist
Depending on what type of archaeologist you are, you may be able to enjoy a lot of fieldwork, digging up ancient ruins. You need to go to graduate school to attain a career in this field. This job is perfect for the person with a love of history, culture, and the outdoors.
Reporter
As a reporter, you can choose to go overseas, perhaps working for the foreign branch of a media company based in your country. It's definitely helpful to know another language, though not always required.
Auditor
Auditors can get sent to different locations, giving them opportunities to travel. As an auditor, you will be checking records and statements for accuracy.
Photographer
Your love of photography might take you to places you dream about traveling to. Whether it be a photoshoot for an ad or a destination wedding, the possibilities are endless. Although it sounds like a great gig, it can be very tough to "make it" as a photographer, so you might want to find an alternative income while chasing your photography dreams.
Volunteer
Volunteering can take you far and wide, and even net you paying positions, though the salary will not be high. The Peace Corps and other international volunteer organizations might be a great options if you want a chance to travel and also make your mark in this world by doing some good.
Source : www.popsugar.com
Ever want to just pack your bags and go on a journey you'll never forget? Perhaps you can find the best of both worlds by getting a job that requires a lot of travel, thereby feeding your insatiable need for travel but putting bread on the table at the same time. Read on to find out what careers could satisfy your globe-trotting urges.
Consulting
Consultants are problem-solvers, providing companies with expert advice on everything from management to marketing to IT. You won’t be tied to one company as a consultant; rather, you’ll travel from city to city, visiting the businesses who need your help. These visits may be either short- or long-term, depending on just how much support a company needs.
Travel Industry
It may sound obvious, but if you want to travel, look for a job in the travel industry! This can be anything from working as a flight attendant or a pilot, to working on a cruise ship, to becoming a travel writer. Sure, much of the time you’re traveling, you’re also working, but you’re bound to have time to get out and explore the places you visit. And as a travel writer in particular, getting out and exploring is part of your job!
Recruiting
As a recruiter, you’ll be expected to travel to colleges and universities around the country to recruit the best new talent, whether for a company or for an athletic team. During the peak of recruiting season, you’ll probably spend more time on the road than in your own bed, but during the off-season, you’ll find yourself spending more time in the office.
Sales
While some sales jobs require you to stay behind a desk or in a retail store, others — like pharmaceutical sales — require you to cover a territory, which involves lots of travel. Depending on the size of the company, that travel could involve simply driving to different cities in your geographic area, or it could involve flying to a different state every week.
Teaching English
English teachers are in high demand in many foreign countries, and in most cases, you don’t even need a teaching credential to score this gig. The travel involved in this job is of a different sort — you won’t be seeing a new place every week, but you will get to fully absorb the culture around you. Most of these positions require a year-long commitment, so you could teach for a year in one country and then move on to the next.
Travel Writer
Travel writers seem to have dream jobs — they travel the world and many will get VIP treatment in hopes of a glowing review.
A couple of caveats: Getting a travel writing job is tough and you may need some good clips to start with. Start writing for free or on other topics to see where it'll lead you. While you're establishing yourself, your pay may not be consistent or even enough.
You could also start a travel blog to build up your clips and your rep in the industry.
Au Pair
Take off overseas to become an au pair, which is someone who stays with a host family and exchanges domestic services like childcare for a small salary and free lodging. It's a great way to fulfill your travel fantasies on a small budget.
Diplomat
There are a variety of jobs you can do as a diplomat, some of them being healthcare specialists and administrative assistants. Many diplomats are foreign service officers and have to take a foreign service exam. After you've passed all the requirements, you'll then be evaluated to see if you qualify.
Archaeologist
Depending on what type of archaeologist you are, you may be able to enjoy a lot of fieldwork, digging up ancient ruins. You need to go to graduate school to attain a career in this field. This job is perfect for the person with a love of history, culture, and the outdoors.
Reporter
As a reporter, you can choose to go overseas, perhaps working for the foreign branch of a media company based in your country. It's definitely helpful to know another language, though not always required.
Auditor
Auditors can get sent to different locations, giving them opportunities to travel. As an auditor, you will be checking records and statements for accuracy.
Photographer
Your love of photography might take you to places you dream about traveling to. Whether it be a photoshoot for an ad or a destination wedding, the possibilities are endless. Although it sounds like a great gig, it can be very tough to "make it" as a photographer, so you might want to find an alternative income while chasing your photography dreams.
Volunteer
Volunteering can take you far and wide, and even net you paying positions, though the salary will not be high. The Peace Corps and other international volunteer organizations might be a great options if you want a chance to travel and also make your mark in this world by doing some good.
Source : www.popsugar.com
Hotel Travel Tips
by: Travel+Leisure Staff
Get a better hotel room and rate on your next vacation by following these tips from T+L’s news team.
In the hotel business, loyalty still has its rewards: free Wi-Fi, loaner BMW bikes, and spa discounts are among the perks you receive for joining Fairmont's free Presidents Club program.
That's just one of the tips and tricks we've compiled that will improve your next hotel stay—and before you even arrive. Some are easy adjustments to your travel habits like bringing your own bottled water or checking in later in the day when managers have a better sense of their inventory and will be more open to a spontaneous upgrade.
Other hotel strategies involve taking advantage of tools that do the research for you. Hipmunk's new last-minute deal aggregator compiles rock-bottom prices for unsold rooms up to 72 hours ahead of arrival. And online service Tingo will automatically rebook you at a lower price if your room rate drops.
Now that's the peace of mind that sets you well on your way to a good hotel night's sleep.
Don’t be a Stranger
Staying in touch pays off: Fairmont Hotels & Resorts posts giveaway contests on its Facebook page (a recent prize: a private party at London’s Abbey Road Studios). Starwood offers bonus points for checking in via Foursquare or Facebook.
Introduce Yourself
On Facebook and Twitter, mentioning a hotel may lead to a more customized experience. For example, a traveler who recently included Hilton in a tweet about his grueling cross-country drive was welcomed with a room upgrade.
Get Personal
If you need a timely response on a customer service issue, sharing the story or even posting a photo can get you a quick answer. Be sure to use direct channels (an @reply tweet on a hotel’s Twitter handle, or a direct message on Facebook).
Ask for Advice
Hilton’s @HiltonSuggests Twitter handle doubles as a concierge: send requests for local tips, and you’ll get a personalized reply from a team of worldwide contributors. Four Seasons’ Pinterest board lets guests create a custom itinerary with local experts before they arrive.
Consult the Algorithm
New website TheSuitest has a Hotel Time Machine that predicts the average room rate in a destination six months out, making it easy to see when rooms will be at their most affordable.
Track the Hotel Rate
Book with online service Tingo, which will automatically rebook you at the lower price if your room rate drops.
Bundle Your Room with Your Airfare
Hotels drop rates when they can disguise them in travel packages offered by websites such as Expedia, Travelocity, and Orbitz.
Pick a Card
If you want to stockpile airline miles and hotel points, finding the right travel-rewards credit card is key. Compare your options on the websites Nerdwallet and Cardhub. Both offer comprehensive card comparisons and sound advice on maximizing benefits.
Take a Calculated Hotel Gamble
Turns out HotelTonight, the pioneer of same-day mobile bookings, partners with select hotels in each destination so it can guarantee availability. Check the app leading up to your trip to get a sense of what will be on offer in your destination. Then be quick on the draw the day of: deals go up at noon each day.
Look For Unsold Rooms
Don’t want to cut it too close? Hipmunk’s new last-minute deal aggregator compiles rock-bottom prices for unsold rooms up to 72 hours ahead of arrival.
Avoid Hotel Wi-Fi Fees
International: Mi-Fi hot spots, such as Verizon’s Jetpack 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot MiFi (from $49.99 with a two-year contract), provide a set amount of data for a fixed monthly price. Don’t want an annual contract? Boingo Wireless offers access to more than 700,000 hot spots worldwide for as little as $7.95 a month.
Domestic: Android users can tether their phones’ 3G to their laptop with the free app FoxFi; for everyone else, Tether ($29.95 per year) will connect a laptop to a mobile device via Bluetooth or USB.
Show a Hotel Brand Your Loyalty
Omni Select Guest: Free Wi-Fi, shoeshine, daily coffee delivery, last-minute discounts
Preferred iPrefer: Free Wi-Fi, late checkout, space-available upgrade
Fairmont’s Presidents Club: Free Wi-Fi, loaner BMW bikes, newspaper delivery, spa discounts
IHG Rewards Club: Free Wi-Fi, newspaper delivery
Club Carlson: Free Wi-Fi, restaurant discounts
Kimpton Intouch: Free Wi-Fi, newspaper delivery, mini-bar and hotel bar vouchers, spa credits
Small Luxury Hotels of the World: Automatic upgrade, breakfast for two after one stay
Tip Like a Pro
Change your bills into smaller denominations right as you check in to your hotel. That way you won’t be left empty-handed when the bellman arrives with your bags.
Get a Room Upgrade
Be Nice: Front desk agents are usually empowered to change a guest’s room at their discretion. A little smile can go a long way.
Stay at a New Hotel: Recently opened properties may not be as full, and have an added incentive to court return guests.
Be a Regular: Hotels prioritize guests who are frequent visitors. If you are often in the city, be sure to let them know.
Check in Later in the Day: Hotel managers have a better sense of their open inventory as the day goes on, and will be more amenable to a spontaneous upgrade.
Say “Thank You”: If you had a great stay, let the hotel know in writing or via social media. The compliment may be repaid on your next visit.
Bring Your Own Water
T+L calculated the average cost of bottled water at luxury hotels in five cities.
Las Vegas: $4
Chicago: $5.06
Miami: $6
New York City: $7.25
Los Angeles: $7.81
Stay in Someone Else’s House
For Urbanites: Airbnb has 500,000 listings in some 33,000 cities, from Parisian pieds-à-terre to New York City brownstones.
For Holiday Rentals: HomeAway and VRBO both have great selections in popular second-home destinations, including ski resorts and beach retreats.
For Sophisticates: Onefinestay lists only high-quality apartments in L.A., London, New York, and Paris—all stocked with extra amenities, including loaner iPhones.
For Hands-On Service: House-rental clubs, such as Portico and Inspirato, have hefty membership fees, but offer concierge services and travel-planning help for people needing extra care.
Source : www.travelandleisure.com
Get a better hotel room and rate on your next vacation by following these tips from T+L’s news team.
In the hotel business, loyalty still has its rewards: free Wi-Fi, loaner BMW bikes, and spa discounts are among the perks you receive for joining Fairmont's free Presidents Club program.
That's just one of the tips and tricks we've compiled that will improve your next hotel stay—and before you even arrive. Some are easy adjustments to your travel habits like bringing your own bottled water or checking in later in the day when managers have a better sense of their inventory and will be more open to a spontaneous upgrade.
Other hotel strategies involve taking advantage of tools that do the research for you. Hipmunk's new last-minute deal aggregator compiles rock-bottom prices for unsold rooms up to 72 hours ahead of arrival. And online service Tingo will automatically rebook you at a lower price if your room rate drops.
Now that's the peace of mind that sets you well on your way to a good hotel night's sleep.
Don’t be a Stranger
Staying in touch pays off: Fairmont Hotels & Resorts posts giveaway contests on its Facebook page (a recent prize: a private party at London’s Abbey Road Studios). Starwood offers bonus points for checking in via Foursquare or Facebook.
Introduce Yourself
On Facebook and Twitter, mentioning a hotel may lead to a more customized experience. For example, a traveler who recently included Hilton in a tweet about his grueling cross-country drive was welcomed with a room upgrade.
Get Personal
If you need a timely response on a customer service issue, sharing the story or even posting a photo can get you a quick answer. Be sure to use direct channels (an @reply tweet on a hotel’s Twitter handle, or a direct message on Facebook).
Ask for Advice
Hilton’s @HiltonSuggests Twitter handle doubles as a concierge: send requests for local tips, and you’ll get a personalized reply from a team of worldwide contributors. Four Seasons’ Pinterest board lets guests create a custom itinerary with local experts before they arrive.
Consult the Algorithm
New website TheSuitest has a Hotel Time Machine that predicts the average room rate in a destination six months out, making it easy to see when rooms will be at their most affordable.
Track the Hotel Rate
Book with online service Tingo, which will automatically rebook you at the lower price if your room rate drops.
Bundle Your Room with Your Airfare
Hotels drop rates when they can disguise them in travel packages offered by websites such as Expedia, Travelocity, and Orbitz.
Pick a Card
If you want to stockpile airline miles and hotel points, finding the right travel-rewards credit card is key. Compare your options on the websites Nerdwallet and Cardhub. Both offer comprehensive card comparisons and sound advice on maximizing benefits.
Take a Calculated Hotel Gamble
Turns out HotelTonight, the pioneer of same-day mobile bookings, partners with select hotels in each destination so it can guarantee availability. Check the app leading up to your trip to get a sense of what will be on offer in your destination. Then be quick on the draw the day of: deals go up at noon each day.
Look For Unsold Rooms
Don’t want to cut it too close? Hipmunk’s new last-minute deal aggregator compiles rock-bottom prices for unsold rooms up to 72 hours ahead of arrival.
Avoid Hotel Wi-Fi Fees
International: Mi-Fi hot spots, such as Verizon’s Jetpack 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot MiFi (from $49.99 with a two-year contract), provide a set amount of data for a fixed monthly price. Don’t want an annual contract? Boingo Wireless offers access to more than 700,000 hot spots worldwide for as little as $7.95 a month.
Domestic: Android users can tether their phones’ 3G to their laptop with the free app FoxFi; for everyone else, Tether ($29.95 per year) will connect a laptop to a mobile device via Bluetooth or USB.
Show a Hotel Brand Your Loyalty
Omni Select Guest: Free Wi-Fi, shoeshine, daily coffee delivery, last-minute discounts
Preferred iPrefer: Free Wi-Fi, late checkout, space-available upgrade
Fairmont’s Presidents Club: Free Wi-Fi, loaner BMW bikes, newspaper delivery, spa discounts
IHG Rewards Club: Free Wi-Fi, newspaper delivery
Club Carlson: Free Wi-Fi, restaurant discounts
Kimpton Intouch: Free Wi-Fi, newspaper delivery, mini-bar and hotel bar vouchers, spa credits
Small Luxury Hotels of the World: Automatic upgrade, breakfast for two after one stay
Tip Like a Pro
Change your bills into smaller denominations right as you check in to your hotel. That way you won’t be left empty-handed when the bellman arrives with your bags.
Get a Room Upgrade
Be Nice: Front desk agents are usually empowered to change a guest’s room at their discretion. A little smile can go a long way.
Stay at a New Hotel: Recently opened properties may not be as full, and have an added incentive to court return guests.
Be a Regular: Hotels prioritize guests who are frequent visitors. If you are often in the city, be sure to let them know.
Check in Later in the Day: Hotel managers have a better sense of their open inventory as the day goes on, and will be more amenable to a spontaneous upgrade.
Say “Thank You”: If you had a great stay, let the hotel know in writing or via social media. The compliment may be repaid on your next visit.
Bring Your Own Water
T+L calculated the average cost of bottled water at luxury hotels in five cities.
Las Vegas: $4
Chicago: $5.06
Miami: $6
New York City: $7.25
Los Angeles: $7.81
Stay in Someone Else’s House
For Urbanites: Airbnb has 500,000 listings in some 33,000 cities, from Parisian pieds-à-terre to New York City brownstones.
For Holiday Rentals: HomeAway and VRBO both have great selections in popular second-home destinations, including ski resorts and beach retreats.
For Sophisticates: Onefinestay lists only high-quality apartments in L.A., London, New York, and Paris—all stocked with extra amenities, including loaner iPhones.
For Hands-On Service: House-rental clubs, such as Portico and Inspirato, have hefty membership fees, but offer concierge services and travel-planning help for people needing extra care.
Source : www.travelandleisure.com
5 Types of Social Media Complainers and How to Deal With Them
by : Briana Smith
Social media continues to play an even larger role in not only gaining customers, but in retaining and building relationships with current customers. Best selling author Erik Qualman reported in his video #Socialnomics 2014, that 93% of shoppers’ buying decisions are influenced by social media and that 90% of consumers trust peer recommendations, while only 14% trust advertisements.
But what about your current customers?
Many companies focus the majority of their attention on gaining new customers, often neglecting to include their current customers in their social media strategy. However, if we follow the 80/20 rule (as many marketers do), we know that 80% of your business will come from 20% of your customers. As such, it is very important to include your current customers in your social media strategy.
Now not to give customers a bad rep, but you often will never hear from them on social media until they are upset. But, don’t assume that because they don’t tweet often that they don’t expect a quick and appropriate response via social media. While we always want to try to take difficult conversations offline, it is important to publicly acknowledge your customer’s comments and make sure they know that you are listening and care. Your strategy on how to respond to a customer will most likely depend on what type of “complainer” you are responding to. The infographic below, based on research from the University of Florida, breaks down the five types of social media complainers that businesses need to be prepared to respond accordingly with via their preferred social platform. The five types of social media complainers are:
- The Meek Customer
- The Aggressive Customer
- The High-Roller Customer
- The Opportunist Customer
- The Chronic Complainer Customer
In addition to laying out the personas of each type of complainer, this infographic also provides good tips on how to appropriately respond to each individual persona. Check out the tips below!
Do you have had an experience when you had to respond to a very upset customer on social media in order to protect your brand? Or, have you had either a very good or very bad experience with a brand responding to you on social media when you were upset about a situation? I would love to hear about it! Comment below with your story or tweet me at @Brianna5mith.
Infographic was created by ExactTarget, you can download it here: How to Deal with Complainers on Social Media.
Source : www.socialmediatoday.com
Social media continues to play an even larger role in not only gaining customers, but in retaining and building relationships with current customers. Best selling author Erik Qualman reported in his video #Socialnomics 2014, that 93% of shoppers’ buying decisions are influenced by social media and that 90% of consumers trust peer recommendations, while only 14% trust advertisements.
But what about your current customers?
Many companies focus the majority of their attention on gaining new customers, often neglecting to include their current customers in their social media strategy. However, if we follow the 80/20 rule (as many marketers do), we know that 80% of your business will come from 20% of your customers. As such, it is very important to include your current customers in your social media strategy.
Now not to give customers a bad rep, but you often will never hear from them on social media until they are upset. But, don’t assume that because they don’t tweet often that they don’t expect a quick and appropriate response via social media. While we always want to try to take difficult conversations offline, it is important to publicly acknowledge your customer’s comments and make sure they know that you are listening and care. Your strategy on how to respond to a customer will most likely depend on what type of “complainer” you are responding to. The infographic below, based on research from the University of Florida, breaks down the five types of social media complainers that businesses need to be prepared to respond accordingly with via their preferred social platform. The five types of social media complainers are:
- The Meek Customer
- The Aggressive Customer
- The High-Roller Customer
- The Opportunist Customer
- The Chronic Complainer Customer
In addition to laying out the personas of each type of complainer, this infographic also provides good tips on how to appropriately respond to each individual persona. Check out the tips below!
Do you have had an experience when you had to respond to a very upset customer on social media in order to protect your brand? Or, have you had either a very good or very bad experience with a brand responding to you on social media when you were upset about a situation? I would love to hear about it! Comment below with your story or tweet me at @Brianna5mith.
Infographic was created by ExactTarget, you can download it here: How to Deal with Complainers on Social Media.
Source : www.socialmediatoday.com
Selasa, 24 Februari 2015
6 Steps to a Boutique Hotel-Style Bedroom
It's been a few years since "staycation" was the buzzword of the summer, but the idea of "traveling" in your own hometown is still a popular concept for budget-friendly vacations. With luxurious linens and a whole host of conveniences, staying in a hotel is always a major treat, even when it's just a few blocks from your front door. But that hotel feeling? You can get that anytime. Even at home. All you need is a little boutique bedroom overhaul.
Step 1: Start with Plump, White Bedding
What sets apart a hotel bed from any other is those fluffy pale sheets. Turn in for the night in style by giving your everyday bed the same treatment with simple white sheets. The next time you're at a hotel, check the sheets for labels or ask the hotel desk who their supplier is. You can find high-thread count white linens almost anywhere, but here are our favorite 10 sources for luxury bedding. Add interest with colorful throw pillows or a sheet set with a decorative border, like the photo at top from a Saskatoon, Canada home designed by Atmosphere Interior Design.
Step 2: Accessorize with Trays
A simple tray is a key piece for simple-chic glamour, and hotels know it's a quick way to make knick-knacks look organized. Use a tray to collect jewelry and watches on a dresser, or perfumes on a vanity. When staging your space for company (or prying eyes at a party), a tray placed on the bed with some magazines and bottled water looks welcoming and luxurious, like in the photo above from Ace Hotel in Seattle.
Step 3: Outfit the Bedside Table
One of the best parts about staying in a hotel is feeling like everything is at your fingertips, probably because there is literally so much within arm's reach on the bedside table. Your home's nightstand can be tricked out too (or nightstands; hotels always have a matching pair). Start with a great lamp, then add fresh flowers, lots of outlets and, yes, maybe even a retro-cool alarm clock radio.
Step 4: Add a Coffee and Refreshments Station
It's a treat to have bed-side coffee ready for you when you wake. Setting up a well-styled coffee station is as easy as finding a spot and plugging in your favorite coffee maker. For your nightcaps, know the trick to adding a mini-fridge without transforming your bedroom into a dorm room is finding one with a luxury finish. Instead of glossy white, go for stainless steel, cabinet-fronts, or a fridge with a sleek glass door (think wine fridge). Give it a faux built-in look by sliding it under a tight-fitting side table or between pieces of furniture with similar heights.
Step 5: Create a Seating Area
Because they need to be your living room and bedroom all at once, most hotel rooms feature a seating area just steps from the bed. It's a luxurious and comfortable element at home, too, offering a great spot to get ready in the morning or read a few pages of a book before bed. If there's some wiggle room in your floor plan, see if you can squeeze in a sofa or a pair of chairs.Step 6: Dress the Bathroom to Match
If you're lucky enough to have a bath attached to your bedroom, treat it like the posh-sounding en suite that it is. Mentally and visually connecting the spaces with complementary decor makes the whole master suite feel more spa-like. If the space allows, you might even consider arranging the bed to face the bathroom doorway for a more cohesive connection between these two separate rooms. Then use these tips to dress the bath up like a boutique resort.(Image credits: Atmosphere Interior Design; Ace Hotel; Only Deco Love; Tara Bellucci) Source : www.apartmenttherapy.com
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