We All Think Differently: Why Diverse Perspectives Fuel Tourism Success
Tourism thrives on difference.
Different cultures, different stories, different ways of experiencing the world. Yet within our own teams, it can be easy to forget that difference isn’t something to overcome—it’s something to embrace.
A phrase I shared with a teammate years ago—“we all think differently”—was recently echoed back to me, and it reminded me of just how essential that truth is, not only in tourism marketing but in the way we train and lead our people.
Why Different Thinking Matters in Tourism
Tourism is about connection. Visitors don’t come for sameness; they come to experience something new, authentic, and memorable. The same is true inside our organizations. When we create space for varied perspectives, we unlock creativity that no single viewpoint could generate.
A Deloitte study found that inclusive teams are 80% more likely to outperform their peers in team-based assessments. In adult learning, research consistently shows that learners bring unique motivations, prior knowledge, and preferences to every training experience (Merriam & Bierema, Adult Learning: Linking Theory and Practice). If we treat everyone as if they think, learn, and engage the same way, we lose the richness that makes education effective.
Diversity of Thought in Learn Tourism Training
At Learn Tourism, we see the impact of this every day. Thousands of learners—from frontline staff to community leaders—engage with our courses differently. Some dive into the data. Others connect most deeply with storytelling. Some prefer visual content, while others rely on practice-based scenarios.
That’s why our training environments are built to be flexible, accessible, and engaging across learning styles. Whether it’s a community ambassador program in the Poconos or a customer experience workshop for destination teams, the principle remains the same: education must honor the fact that we all think differently.
From Authentic Marketing to Memorable Experiences
The same principle applies in tourism marketing. AI-driven tools and analytics may help us understand visitor behavior, but empathy—rooted in recognizing difference—is what transforms campaigns into real connections. It’s why emotionally intelligent teams consistently deliver better results. As Harvard Business Review notes, “The best-performing teams don’t just get along; they leverage emotional intelligence to outperform the rest.”
When DMOs and tourism organizations highlight diverse voices and perspectives in their messaging, they don’t just tell a story—they invite visitors into a community where difference is celebrated.
How Leaders Can Put This Into Practice
Here are three ways tourism leaders can embrace different ways of thinking in both training and marketing:
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Design for multiple learning styles. Ensure training isn’t one-size-fits-all. Blend video, text, activities, and storytelling to reach every learner.
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Create psychological safety. Teams innovate when members feel safe to share unique perspectives, even when they challenge the norm.
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Balance AI with empathy. Use data and tools to inform decisions, but always pair them with the human element—how real people think, feel, and experience travel.
Final Thought
The next time a teammate reminds you, “We all think differently,” take it as an invitation to listen more deeply, design more inclusively, and lead with authenticity.
Because in tourism—as in life—our differences are not obstacles. They’re the very foundation of connection, growth, and success.
About Learn Tourism, the nonprofit academy...
Learn Tourism is a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the tourism industry through innovative educational practices and professional development initiatives. Our mission is to harness the power of science, business psychology, and adult education to build sustainable economies and enrich the tourism landscape.
About the Author: Stephen Ekstrom
Stephen Ekstrom is the embodiment of a passionate lifelong learner and a seasoned professional in the tourism industry, serving as the CEO and co-founder of Learn Tourism - the nonprofit academy. With over 25 years of experience, he has cultivated a deep understanding of tourism development and education, driven by his commitment to advancing the industry and fostering sustainable economies. Stephen's insatiable curiosity and love for knowledge have led him to be a proud nerd, constantly seeking to expand his expertise and share his insights with others. Alongside his faithful furry companions, Rudy and Marjorie, he embraces the digital nomad lifestyle, traversing the globe and immersing himself in diverse cultures. A dedicated advocate for continuous improvement, Stephen is a professional member of the Association for Talent Development and a member of Skal International. Stephen holds prestigious certifications in Inclusive and Ethical Leadership from USF, AI Governance and Ethics from Brown University, and Sustainable Business Strategy from Harvard Business School.