Last month, I spent the Christmas holiday period in Israel with friends, who are naturally all in the travel industry. Of course, we discussed our goals for 2019, as we all want the best blueprint for success.

We toured with Yoav Gal, the founder, co-owner and CEO of Israel My Way, which offers customized tours for groups, families, business people and individuals. This trip enabled us to see first-hand why we chose Yoav to show us around. Seeing my friends—all first-time visitors to Israel—enjoy and learn about a new destination made me very happy. The trip also drove home some important lessons for travel agents that always bear repeating.

It's All About Care

Yoav was a gracious host and treated us like we were his most important clients, although he had 30 trips running through The Holy Land at the same time. And he personally met every family over that busy time frame. In an era when our so-called “competition” is generally an OTA or DIY, isn’t this an easy way to separate yourself from the herd?

Make Thoughtful Gestures

Little pleasantries make the difference between simply completing a booking and turning your client into your advocate who will tell friends and business associates about how wonderful you are. For example, I took the extra step to work with Michal Galili of Jerusalem’s Mamilla Hotel to place pictures of my friends’ loved ones in their suites! This is more important than any amenity, and there is no cost. And you can bet they’ll tell their friends and family about it.

Get Back to the Basics

Everyone wants to feel special, so write that card or send a note as your clients travel—and yes, you can even call them. We still use the telephone in 2019!