Hey there, adventure enthusiast! Imagine this: you’re about to embark on the adventure of a lifetime, and you’re holding the key to making it unforgettable. It’s not the location, the group, or even the guide; it’s you—the Host! You’re the maestro of this symphony, the quarterback of this game, and the one who can turn this journey into pure magic.
Welcome to the Ready For Road Host series, where we’ll delve deep into the art of being an exceptional Host before and during your adventure. If you’ve ever wondered how to create a seamless travel experience, make your Travelers feel at ease, and earn rave reviews (plus, set the stage for more trips), you’re in for a treat. This is just the beginning; the adventure awaits below!
Part 1: The Journey Begins
Key Takeaways: Balancing Act of Hosting
Picture this: you’re getting paid to travel, living the #DreamJob. But it’s not all hammocks and sunsets; being a Host means work. You’re the glue that holds it all together, a resource, and the group’s leader. Travelers signed up because they follow you and your content. They look up to you for answers and support. You will be someone they go to before, during and after the trip. However, remember to enjoy yourself too. When you are having fun, so will they. If you panic, or overworry about things, they will start to do so too!
So, embrace this role, enjoy the trip as much as possible and watch your Travelers become lifelong fans.
You will have a large variety of personalities on the trip and its important to make sure everyone is getting involved. Do a little check in daily with everyone to see how they are feeling and make sure the quiet ones are given space to speak.
Part 2: Forge Connections
Your Travelers might already be familiar with you, but now it’s time to take it up a notch. Building a personal connection with them before the adventure starts is vital. It’s a great way to keep their interest and prevent cancellations.
Here are two golden strategies to connect with your group:
Group Chat: They get added to a Whatsapp group as soon as they book. Break the ice, introduce yourself, and ignite the conversation. Keep the engagement high with questions, travel tips, and that sense of anticipation. Ready For Road will also be in there to help you with this and answer all the tricky questions that you may now have the answers to.
Video Chat: Organize a video chat through Zoom or other platforms to put faces to names. Find a suitable time through the group chat and welcome your Travelers. It’s a perfect opportunity to play ice-breaker games and gauge the group dynamics. See who the chatters are and who the observers are.
Pro Tip: Double-check your chat settings to ensure privacy, keeping your phone number and email hidden. Communication should be on your terms.
Part 3: The Art of Reminders
Life moves fast, and Travelers might forget crucial dates. Be their compass. Send friendly reminders for important deadlines like passport/visa applications, flight bookings (only after the place on your trip is confirmed), payment due dates, the last day to book a spot, and when to submit trip forms.
Make a scheudle of key dates, plot them in your calendar and set these dates as reminders for packing lists, Payments, follow ups and check ins to see how everyone is doing.
Part 4: Going the Extra Mile
Ever had that exceptional customer service experience that made you feel valued? It’s time to channel that energy into your role as a Host. Show your Travelers that you care about them as more than just customers.
Here’s how to add your personal touch:
- Personalized Postcards post trip
- Thoughtful Goodie Bags on arrival (merch etc)
- Customized Packing Lists (We will give you one)
- Tailored Hiking Tips
- Open DMs for Questions
- Direct them to lysette@readyforroad.com for specific issues during the trip or the Whatsapp for difficult queries
Remember, you’re not their secretary. Direct them to the Ready For Road team if necessary. We will handle 100% of the queries if you wish. Once you’re on the trip, the local Guide takes over for questions and issues.
Part 5: Setting the Right Tone
Your Travelers follow your lead. Maintain a positive attitude even when things go slightly off course. How you respond to challenges sets the tone for the entire group.
Remember, you’re not alone; your local Guide is there to handle emergencies. Redirect complaints to them and trust their expertise. They will do all in their power to make sure you are comfortable.
Part 6: Staying on Schedule
Time is precious, and keeping the group on schedule ensures a smooth adventure. Our guides are professionals but territories, terrain, weather or civil unrest is something we navigate with easy, in the event of an itinerary change, we will provide an equal or better activities and always keep the group comfortable and informed. Many find it interesting and part of the adventure when these things happen that might not otherwise happen at home.
Part 7: Navigating Foreign Currency
Even in remote destinations, cash is king. Get local currency before you travel to avoid hassles and extra fees. Educate your Travelers about local tipping customs. As a rule of thumb there are no tips required daily on our tips but at the end of the trip, any tips are given to the local guides. Also a good way to use up any left over local currency.
Part 8: Self-Care Matters
You’re the heart of the adventure, so take care of yourself. Don’t hesitate to take time for yourself, recharge, or work on content. Balancing group needs with personal time keeps you at your best. You don’t need to go to every activity, you are also here to enjoy yourself too. Our team will keep the show on the road while you catch up with yourself.
Remember to keep promoting your brand while on the trip; it generates more interest and future bookings if you decide to run another trip in the future.
Bonus: Reviews Matter
After the adventure, ask your Travelers to complete Ready For Roads review form. It’s a win-win; Use the positive review results to boost your next trips.
Aaaand that’s it! You got this!
