The 24-hour lead response playbook
How to structure the first day after an inquiry — from the first WhatsApp reply to the discovery call script we use with 500+ agencies.
Speed of first response is the single strongest predictor of whether a travel lead converts. Agencies that respond within 30 minutes close three times more than those that reply the next day.
Minute 0-2 — Auto-acknowledge on WhatsApp
Set up a WhatsApp template that fires the second a lead lands. Address by first name, confirm you have their inquiry, and promise a call within the hour.
Minute 5-30 — Personal reply
Send a personal, non-template message with a tentative day-by-day sketch. Do not send a full quote yet — the goal is to earn a call, not close a deal.
Hour 1-4 — The discovery call
Ask about pace, non-negotiables, past trips, and budget range (not budget cap). Take notes directly in the lead's activity log so the entire team can see.
Hour 4-24 — First quote
Send a versioned quotation with two options — a headline package and a stretch upgrade. Include an expiry and a Razorpay pay-link for the deposit.