Like any partnership, getting the best results with a DMC takes a bit of work, some strategy, and feedback to evaluate how it’s going. The personal touch these skilled providers bring to their work can make these business relationships very rewarding.
Here are some tips for setting up a smooth collaboration that brings out the best in both teams.
Get clear on what you want
Before reaching out to a DMC, take some time to define what success looks like for this partnership.
Are you aiming to show clients the local culture and get away from the tourist crowds?
Or maybe offer an unforgettable “VIP” experience?
Sharing a clear vision from the start helps the DMC understand your goals and come up with creative ways to achieve them.
They’re the experts in their region, so the more insight they have into your expectations, the better they can deliver. It might help to start by thinking about what you can’t do from home and what unique challenges their regions present that are best to have a local take care of. For instance, transportation might be a nightmare in one place, so you’ll want a DMC to handle logistics, while another destination might be a little too accessible, in which case a DMC can help your group find lesser-known spots.
(For more background on what a DMC is, check out What is a Destination Management Company?)
Ask for local secrets
DMCs are brimming with local knowledge, so don’t be afraid to ask for those off-the-radar spots and experiences you won’t find online.
People often travel to feel like locals or to get in touch with a different pace of life, and DMCs have the connections to make that happen. Whether it’s a hidden scenic viewpoint, a quiet local café, or a seasonal festival, tapping into these “insider secrets” can turn a tour into a real adventure.
Communication is key
The best partnerships thrive on open communication. Regular check-ins help you stay on the same page and allow for any adjustments on the go.
If you’re organising a complex itinerary or a big group event, even small details can make a huge difference. Checking in frequently also builds a stronger relationship and ensures your project is always on track. Be sure communication flows both ways, make your needs clear, but find out if there’s anything you can do to make your DMC’s work easier.
Be upfront about budgets
It’s easy to get lost in all the ideas and options DMCs can offer, but setting a budget from the outset helps keep things manageable.
Letting the DMC know your financial parameters means they can focus on what’s realistic and suggest options that give you the best value. DMCs have the local connections to secure good deals and find cheaper alternatives to tourist markups, so they’re often able to stretch your budget more effectively than an outside planner.
Trust their expertise
DMCs live and breathe their destinations. They know the ins and outs of local transport, seasonal attractions, and even cultural preferences.
While it’s natural to want input, trusting their expertise can open the door to unique experiences that a strict plan might overlook. This is their home, afterall, so letting them take the lead on certain aspects can add depth and richness to the experience.
(For more insights into why you should consider partnering with a DMC, read Why use a DMC?)
Have a contingency plan
Travel can be unpredictable, and even the best-laid plans need a backup.
Work with your DMC to put a few “Plan Bs” in place, especially for things like weather-dependent activities or events with a lot of moving parts.
Having these plans prepped saves stress and keeps the client experience smooth, no matter what pops up.
Get feedback and follow up
After the trip or event, touch base to go over what went well and where things could improve. Not only is this helpful for future collaborations, but it also shows appreciation and builds goodwill and keeps problems from festering.
When both sides get better from each project, it sets the stage for even more successful partnerships in the future.
Tour locally, connect globally with trusted DMCs
Partnering with a DMC is like adding a local expert to your team. With a bit of planning, trust, and communication, you can turn a standard trip into an experience that clients will talk about for years. Each DMC brings its own set of connections and expertise, so working together can add layers of authenticity and value that are hard to replicate.