This year’s Governor’s Conference on Tourism, May 4-6, will feature two nationally known speakers. The Keynote Address on Tuesday May 5 will be given by Peter C. Yesawich, a frequent commenter on travel trends in publications such as The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Time, USA Today, Newsweek, Business Week and more. Gain valuable insight into emerging travel trends from this leader in tourism market research, as well as insight into the widely acclaimed National Travel MONITOR Survey.

Wednesday’s closing address will be given by Dr. Peter Tarlow of Tourism & More, Inc., who will speak on creating unique customer experiences and environments during difficult times. Learn how, together, not only can we be up when the economy is down but also help our visitors and guests return home refreshed psychologically, ready to take on new challenges.

Click here for complete conference schedule information.

Don’t forget that April 1st is the deadline for submitting nominations for this year’s tourism awards - no foolin’.

For an explanation of the awards and nomination process, please visit our website. For further information, please email Maryanne Adams or call her at 603-271-6963.

A news release is often your only chance to make a great first impression.  Newspapers, magazines and trade publications receive them by the truckload. That means sloppy, inaccurate, pointless releases are the first to hit the newsroom wastebasket. To make sure yours isn't one of them, avoid these 7 Deadly Sins.

 48 Tips for a Successful Business Strategy

We usually think of business strategy as some sort of aspirational market positioning statement. Doubtless that's part of it. But the number one "strategic strength" is excellence in execution and systemic relationships (i.e., with everyone we come in contact with).  Here are 48 pieces of advice for creating a winning strategy that is inherently sustainable

In a recession, the people who survive learn how to adapt to a changing business environment, consultant Frank Hurtte writes. Recessions fuel worthwhile change, help nimble outfits gain market share, suggest avenues for growth in related businesses and promote the growth of leadership.

Many American consumers say buying fresh, local and sustainable food is important to them. But at what personal cost? Will they skip the tomato on their sandwich unless it's in season? Restaurant chains are overcoming challenges and doing more to explore local-sourcing options.

There are a lot of very talented people in marketing.  However, the sad truth is that many of them are still trying to market like it’s still the 1980s.  They spend big money while adding little value. This author finds that they tend to promulgate five dysfunctional lies. 

Many small-business owners are finding themselves in painful conversations with employees these days, chats that start with "Boss, I'm really strapped for cash -- I need a raise." But many companies are themselves hurting, and an owner may need to look for a way to help a staffer that doesn't involve money.

Past newsletters are now archived on www.nhtravelcouncil.com, both according to the month of publication, and also by subject: Behavior & Etiquette, Customer Service, Industry News, Legal Updates, Operations, Sales & Marketing, and Trends. If you’ve missed past issues, or just want to re-read an article, you can find them all on our website. And, as always, we welcome submissions that you think would be of interest to our industry. Thanks!

If you have news that we can use, please send information for consideration to Susan Logan, Editor of this newsletter: susan@nhtourismnetwork.com

Susan Logan, Editor
News You Can Use!