The Internet has become an integral part of everyday life and hence online reputation management (ORM) is becoming a must for both businesses as well as individuals. Search engines and the rapidly growing social medias are playing a critical role in shaping online reputation.
Travel industry, like every other industry, is susceptible to online reputation problems. There is a compelling necessity for adequately managing the travel industry services online in order to build a positive image.
All members of a family taker part in travel decision-making process, when thinking about the intended destination. Likewise, the HR or Logistics department is responsible for organizing travel formalities for their executives.
Several recent studies have shown that travel review sites have the greatest influence in the travel decision-making processes of families as well as businesses.
It is the reason why that tourist destinations, transportation, hoteliers etc showcase travelers’ reviews. But the unfortunate aspect is reviews may not always be positive. Travelers read reviews and take them seriously before finalizing travel arrangements. In fact, 54% of TripAdvisor users will not book a hotel that has no reviews. Travelers read 6 to 8 reviews on average before making a travel decision. Review sites have a huge impact in the travel business, and travel brands need to keep notice.
Hotels, airways, restaurants,must constantly read all the review sites as even one negative comment that goes unnoticed can cost the business dear. Please remember that you should not ignore even a single adverse criticism. Get n touch with the review site and explain the situation and get the negative report deleted as expeditiously as possible.
Never underestimate the importance f review sites. It is reported that there are 250 million unique visitors to TripAdvisor sites worldwide, with more than 140 million reviews. Yelp, popular in USA, has more than 130 million unique visitors to its site, with more than 56 million local reviews.
Well over 60% of business organizations rely on review sites such as TripAdvisor while deciding their travel plans. 75% of business houses refer TripAdvisor reviews before selecting a hotel. 50% will do so for a restaurant, and 44% will refer to review sites before choosing an airline. Tourists refer to Yelp, for selecting restaurants and local services, such as spa, or activities, i.e. ski, golf, etc.
Travel industries cannot expect to stay and survive in business if they are insensitive to their online reputation. If you can afford it – the wisest solution would be to hire a professional ORM (Online Reputation Management) agency to protect and preserve your online reputation.