Tourism Pro Talks- Nathan Claycomb of Sight & Sound Theatres

One of the best parts of being in the Tourism industry for many years is the people I meet. Our industry has an endless list of talented, hardworking, fun-loving and creative professionals. I decided to interview my friends and give you a peek into their lives and careers. Feel free to ask questions in the comments section, and I will follow-up with the guest interviewed. This week we hear from my friend Nathan Claycomb of the Sight & Sound Theatres. Nathan doesn’t mention it in his interview, but he was recently named one of the Top 10 Next Gens by Groups Today magazine. Congratulations Nathan!

1. Tell us a bit about how you got started in the tourism industry.

   I began working in the industry four years ago after a decade working behind the scenes at Sight & Sound Theatres. When I saw the opportunity to combine my love for people with the love of our productions, it felt like a natural fit.  I had no idea the impact tourism would have on me as a person. It’s less of an industry than it is a family.

2. What is your current job and what are your primary responsibilities?

   I serve as business development manager at Sight & Sound, representing both the Lancaster, PA and Branson, MO theatre locations. I have the pleasure of building relationships with thousands of tour and travel professionals in the USA and around the world.

3. What are some of the changes you have seen since you began your career?

   International inbound tourism trends continue to fascinate me. Change is the only constant in this market. More than ever, international travel patterns are regularly influenced by politics, economics, safety concerns and weather patterns. I believe U.S. DMOs, properties and products need to adjust their sales and marketing efforts to proactively inspire calm in the midst of international uncertainties.

4. What tourism trends are you seeing that will impact your job and how you work in the next 2 years?

   I’m a firm believer that technology will continue to shape aspects of all industries, including tourism. As consumers and businesses continue to expand the virtual/augmented reality realms, the face of tourism may change forever. In early September, Apple introduced a new phone designed with augmented reality components that will change the way users work and play. The application of this technology seems limitless!

5. It’s vacation time – where do you go?

   Our family absolutely loves beach vacations. Most years we will travel to Fenwick Island, DE or even Cape Henlopen for a few days. With two boys under age 10, the shore provides dozens of fun-filled opportunities beyond the surf. From the Ocean City, MD boardwalk to mini-golf and go-karts, there is never a dull moment during a Claycomb beach vacation.

6. What is your favorite app and tell us a bit about it.

   While Sally really increased my love of WeChat, my favorite travel app is Polarsteps. The app tracks my movements around the globe when I begin a “trip,” and I can add photos and comments along the way. I was an early adopter and now have a collection of travel experiences I can look back on without having to search through social media to find my trips. Polarsteps is as private as you want it to be. I only have a select number of followers, so I know my family’s safety isn’t at risk when I’m on the road.

7. What is your favorite tradeshow and why?

   It’s far too difficult to select only one marketplace as my favorite. However, I tend to thrive in the midst of the smaller, more intimate shows like Bienvenue Québec and RTO Summit. I’m also a huge fan of NTA’s Travel Exchange and the ABA Marketplace. Every tradeshow has a different feel with unique benefits of its own.

8. What advice do you have for someone just getting started in the tourism industry?

   Don’t be shy. Never underestimate the power of a “hello” and a warm smile. Always give first and ask later. Relationships are not built overnight. During my first solo tradeshow, I met two individuals that I really didn’t “click” with. I was concerned that I’d compromise the existing business relationship. However, after consistently putting their needs first for four years, they are some of my best friends in the industry. Extend trust, give big- you’ll be amazed what happens!