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 good friend Vickie Evans of The Henry Ford in Dearborn Michigan.
Tell us a bit about how you got started in the tourism industry.
A friend told me that they hire by “personality” and teach the job. Said I was on “auto-pilot” for talking enthusiastically to everyone I meet–so here I am!
What is your current job and what are your primary responsibilities?
Global Tourism is my title. Currently, I work with domestic & international tour operators (international is showing the largest growth; the overall market is up 25% over the previous year). I also work almost 30 area hotel partners for the leisure market for package getaways & groups. Other partners include Detroit CVB, Travel Michigan, Michigan Welcome Centers and currently serving as Vice President of Circle Michigan (Tourism arm of Travel Michigan)
What are some of the changes you have seen since you began your career?
While technology is always changing, continuing to build relationships with customers remains the key to success. This includes which form of technology they prefer to use. Much more regional marketing for the international market. Michigan is part of Great Lakes USA and now has reps in the UK, Germany & UK. Building an itinerary with my friend Sally at the Corning Museum of Glass in New York has been wonderful since most international guests visit several states during their visit to the U.S.
What tourism trends are you seeing that will impact your job and how you work in the next 2 years?
On-line book options are showing a major increase (including multi-venue tickets & hotel packages) “Insider Tours” where guests not only want to see the collections but want to hear the stories of the innovation we have at The Henry Ford.
It’s vacation time – where do you go?
New destinations (any island will do!) Had the opportunity to travel to some wonderful destinations for business both domestic & international. Would like to go back to have time to actually “see” what they have to offer (UK, Scotland, Ireland, China,). And of course, Detroit is changing every week with all new restaurants, entertainment, shopping options. With lots of travel for work, sometimes it is terrific to explore all that’s new in my own backyard.
What is your favorite app and tell us a bit about it.
Tripadvisor is a good resource to explore a new area. Great for our clients to see how our guests rate The Henry Ford too! (Nothing sells better than a testimonial from a happy customer!)
What is your favorite tradeshow and why?
Each trade show has special benefits. Very big shows like ABA, NTA & IPW have many more appointments and attendees to network with at the show. While the RTO Summit shows are much more one-on-one with individual clients and offer great training too.
What advice do you have for someone just getting started in the tourism industry?
Read as much as possible about the industry to stay current. Build relationships with industry colleagues; not just local but regional, national & international. Keep in touch & share best practices. Most important—find a MENTOR!