I know it is hard to get all of the information for a “complete profile”, but if you resolve to get the critical pieces right away and then fill in the blanks down the line it will be a lot easier.

Just listen to your clients and prospects when you talk to them in person, online, or on the phone. They will give you clues and an easy entrance to get the information you need.

For example, if a client casually mentions the trip he is considering is for an anniversary—ask the date! Now in the future you are set to impress him by remembering. Or you might just save his butt by reminding him! If you take some time to listen to your clients, you will be surprised at what you will learn.

So what are the critical pieces of a profile. They will differ from agency to agency but in my opinion the following needs to be known after the first contact:

  1. Name
  2. Phone
  3. Email
  4. Trip Name

After the second contact, you should be getting more information:

  1. Address
  2. Work Phone
  3. Cell Phone
  4. Family members or traveling companions
  5. Marketing preferences (some)
  6. Dates of birth*

* Coming in 2009, DHS will be requiring birth dates in PNRs. So even if you are not using a GDS, you will need this information to pass along to the tour operator–hopefully by LiveConnect!

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Related posts:

  1. Saving Time With Res Cards
  2. Never, Never, Never
  3. Email Blasts From ClientBase Part 1
  4. Zipping Through Profile Addresses
  5. Email Blasts From ClientBase Part 2