Getaway Travel & Tourism Conference ideal for SMMEs

Duarte's step-by-step master-class is designed to equip SMMEs with a customised roadmap to market their businesses using multi media. The programme will allow delegates to create their own marketing plan so they leave with an integrated strategy tailored to their needs, say the organisers.

"Time is money for SMMEs. We want to make it worthwhile for them to attend, so we have designed a programme that will allow delegates to do more than wonder how to implement what they have learned. Armed with a marketing toolkit specific to their needs, they will leave knowing exactly what to do. The day will be like having a private consultant in the office," explained Tracy-Lee Behr, Getaway events manager.

Marketing agenda

The conference - hashtag #GTTC - will cover all the elements of a sound marketing plan. Topics include defining the market and what differentiates businesses from their competitors, setting up a good website, social media marketing, online and email advertising, mobile and location-based marketing and nurturing loyalty and reputation.

"This very practical, participative workshop will teach delegates how to invest time and money to improve their returns from online marketing. They will learn the basics of maintaining their own online presence - from website to social media - without prior technical expertise," said Duarte.

While the focus will be on those in travel and tourism, business people from any sector would benefit from the skills and insights covered.

The conference is co-hosted by Getaway magazine and the Ogilvy Digital Marketing Academy and sponsored by Mercedes-Benz Vans. It will run from 8.30am to 5pm and costs R1200 a person, inclusive of the day's presentations on flash-drive, meals and refreshments.

For more information, go to Getaway conference.