They really don’t want you to travel…

Jun 24, 2024 Canmore, Alberta

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“Quess we really will need all 4 hours to catch our connecting flight….”

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It’s been a couple of weeks now since my wife and flew down to Panama for a quick trip. Panama, known for the canal, offers so much more, whether you are a tourist, business or a foreigner looking for a new country to set up residence.

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With a booming economy, (rates at and above 4% for the past decade) a strategic location, and a welcoming attitude towards expats and foreign investors, Panama is an ideal destination for those looking to start a business or make a fresh start.

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The government has implemented numerous incentives to attract foreign investment, including tax breaks and other financial benefits. In addition, the country's friendly business environment and stable economy make it a prime location for entrepreneurs and business owners looking to expand their operations or start something new.

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This story, however, is not about all the reasons why we visited the country. It was our return trip which will provide you with your business lesson of the week.

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The closest city to us, with an international airport, is Calgary, Alberta. Unfortunately, there currently are no direct flights to Panama. This means we had to decide upon a connecting city.

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From my research, going through Houston, Texas, seemed the best approach. And indeed, on our outbound journey, we encountered no issues. We were even able to change to an earlier flight from Houston, which was a nice bonus.

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Tocumen Airport, which serves Panama City – is as modern and convenient as any I’ve experienced. The completion of a second terminal is one reason. And getting to and from it, from the city is a breeze and inexpensive, due to Uber and an excellent highway system.

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Passing through security inconveniences you with the same hassle as every other airport these days. What I missed, however, was a note at the United check-in about how they are going the “extra mile” to ensure passengers’ safety.

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So, you can imagine our surprise and frustration, when we were forced to endure a second security check just to enter the “waiting area” before boarding! Folks who had just purchased bottled water, after the first security check were asked to either leave it or drink it.?

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So much for customer service….

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Then came the “horror” show in Houston. It took us over 1 hour just to get cleared through immigration. This was followed by another massive, slow line. Why?

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You guessed it, another security line – take off your shoes, belt and self-respect.?

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More frustrating for us was the confiscation of 2 small jars of hot sauce my wife had purchased as gifts. These had cleared the 2 previous checks in Panama but the US – well, they don’t miss anything….

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I thought we’d have plenty of time to check out all the airport’s shops, have a nice meal and catch up on my email. Nope – we needed most of that 4-hour layover.?

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What is the lesson for you?

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Unless you have a monopoly and overwhelming power to force your customers to jump over barbed wire, run through fire and drive hours through a driving snowstorm, this experience is what not to do.?

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Make it easy for your clients to do business. Give them multiple ways to get reach you. Do not p*ss them off like our friendly airport security do.?

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One very cool way to do this is to set up instant follow-up to phone and online enquiries. If you run a business that relies on setting appointments to make sales – this system is the best I’ve come across.?

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Until next week,?

Stay healthy and focus on profit!?

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?- Hugh? The “Profit Accelerator ” Expert

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P.S.?Would you like more appointments this year? Check out our new system here

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