The phrase “less is more” is generally suggested in matters involving art, design or appearance. But when it comes to business and anything involving consumerism, the mindset is most always “more is more.”
More sales equals more money equals more jobs, etc. And at the start of that list is more people, which is what the Guam Visitors Bureau and all involved in Guam’s tourism industry have set challenging goals to achieve.
In the hurry to get more of whatever we’re after, what often gets compromised is quality. This is obvious everywhere in the to-the-second digital age that we live in. Companies thrive today based on how fast they can crank out more — more web content, more “upgraded” versions, more pieces. But how much better could each of those products have been given more consideration? The additional thought and planning would not have yielded a quick profit, but it would mean more profitability and a longer standing brand into the future.
As tourism industry professionals bring to the table in this issue’s Tourism Market Update feature on China, more is only better if it is done properly. To ensure more than just the instant gratification of more tourists visiting our islands, planning must take place. Rather than purely aiming for number of bodies, time and research need to be dedicated to reach the higher end tourist that would most benefit our economy. The island must prepare with proper signage and employees who speak the language to limit misunderstanding and also to ensure sustainability of a market we’re putting in a lot of resources to grow.
The Marianas Business Journal, sister publication to Guam Business Magazine, has been following the tourism situation in Palau. The nation’s number of visitors from China has exploded. Some of Palau’s population is taking the stance that “more is more,” while others are less concerned about numbers and more concerned about the quality of their product.
Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands have no less fragile of a product to preserve if the goal is long-term sustainability of our number one industry.
The one thing there is always room for more of are leaders in the community making careful decisions and valuable contributions to our islands. If you know of a businesswoman who fits this description, nominate her for the First Hawaiian Bank and Guam Business Magazine annual Businesswoman of the Year Award. Nominations are due May 29 and can be made using the form on page 15 of this issue or on www.guambusinessmagazine.com. The gala to recognize the nominees, announce the winner and fund scholarships for even more future business leaders is set for Sept. 6 at the Hyatt Regency Guam. We hope you’ll join us.