IC TRAVEL AGENT February 2014 | Page 13

Using The Word FREE! Free is free. If a consumer must purchase something to get something for FREE then it’s not FREE and that means you go to jail and do not collect $200. As you well know the travel trade has for years given away its knowledge and all for FREE. Service fees have saved the day, but they won’t save you if you entice your clients with the header suggesting something is FREE when it’s not. Some words like included also have the meaning of FREE depending on how the sentence reads. Here’s what you can offer for FREE. 1. Contact us today for your group travel quote. It’s FREE! 2. Click here to download your FREE brochure. 3. Download your FREE video link… right here… 4. Book now and your DVD is INCLUDED. 5. Subscribe to our FREE newsletter. 6. FREE full colour travel brochures… 7. Book today and get this t-shirt… 8. Ask for your FREE e-Book. prizes such as a couple of t-shirts or mouse pads are perfect. FREEBIES You Can Offer Most of the following items can be provided by your preferred suppliers – that said their local marketing funds have dwindled too, which means you must show good reason for your request and promise an excellent ROI.       Discounts CDs, DVDs Videos T-Shirts Posters Brochures       Be True To Your Supplier Even though these giveaways are free to you it costs your supplier what you’re not paying. Only use the freebies that relate to the supplier you are promoting. More free stuff to be found at the tourism office of the destination you are selling. When you attend a travel trade show ask the suppliers about their free stuff. Tell them why you want it, when you want it and what your intentions are to sell their product. Chances are you’ll be favourably rewarded. Check your local advertising laws for more information on and about using the word FREE in your travel promotions.  Maps Pens Mugs Key chains Mouse pads USB drives If you are inviting 100 people to your event then you’ll order 100 DVDs and 100 pens. If you are intending to go the door prize route then small Page 13