Inside GetTransfer.com: Exclusive Interview with Alexander Pershikov
Exclusive Interview of Alexander Pershikov of GetTransfer.com. Edited by Powered Magazine
Alexander Pershikov is Mobility evangelist and serial entrepreneur. He is the founder of GetTransfer.com, the largest global travel mobility marketplace for booking transfers, rides and chauffeur per hour cars and the travel taxis, powered by tenders.
Tell us about yourself and your business
My passion is the transportation industry. However, I began my career in one of the biggest banks in Eastern Europe. In 2015, I founded GetTransfer.com, a travel mobility marketplace for transfers and hourly car rentals with drivers. Platform operates in 180 countries, supporting over 20 languages. We aim to provide the best prices and fair conditions for our customers, revolutionizing the traditional taxi market. I'm proud to say that GetTransfer.com has become a trusted choice for travelers worldwide, and I'm thrilled to represent this innovative business.
What were your biggest challenges when starting your business?
It was and it is a streamlining and optimizing our sales process. To tackle this, we implemented a digital transformation, focusing on over 30 performance indicators within our sales funnel. By prioritizing transparency and manageability, we made significant strides in our sales performance and continue to enhance it each month.
How have you handled success and failure over the course of your career?
I've embraced all learning opportunities throughout my career. I adopt a proactive approach. Rather than dwelling on setbacks, I analyze the situation to understand what went wrong and identify areas for improvement. I believe in taking responsibility for my actions and learning from my mistakes to prevent similar pitfalls in the future. Ultimately, both success and failure are part of the journey, and I strive to maintain a growth mindset in all circumstances. By embracing success with humility and viewing failure as a stepping stone toward improvement, I continuously evolve personally and professionally.
What strategies do you use to stay competitive in a changing market?
To stay competitive, we prioritize innovation and analyzing competitors. At GetTransfer.com, we've introduced game-changing features like flexible cancellation options, VIP status for loyal customers, driver ratings for informed decisions, the "Diamond" car selection, a VIP concierge service, and unique offerings such as instant bookings and a selection of languages spoken by drivers. Our tender-based pricing is particularly loved by our B2C clients who can wait and enjoy better prices for their preferred car. GetTransfer.com is the only platform worldwide to provide these comprehensive features and language options, offering a truly exceptional travel experience.
What motivations drive you to keep pushing forward in the face of adversity?
The desire to solve a common problem in a new, better way. Being passionate about exploring new solutions. We build tender-based bidding engines for the travel industry which is a revolutionary concept that we created and improving on a going basis.
What advice would you give to someone just starting in their chosen field?
My advice would be to stay curious, never stop learning, and be open to new opportunities. Keep seeking knowledge, embrace challenges as growth opportunities, and maintain a strong network of mentors and peers who can support and inspire you along the way. Remember that success takes time and perseverance, so stay committed to your goals and believe in your abilities.
How have technological advances affected the way you conduct business/operate your venture?
Machine learning and AI algorithms have revolutionized our business operations. They have streamlined processes, enhanced efficiency, and allowed for personalized customer experiences. We leverage these technologies for data-driven decision-making, and customer support through optimized pricing, fraud detection, and risk assessment. Moreover, they have helped us to create customizations to tender-based systems that help customers to get the best deal possible. Embracing these advancements has helped us stay competitive in the market and deliver exceptional services.
In what ways has customer feedback/response influenced how you prioritize goals/objectives for your business/venture?
Customer feedback and ratings are the powerful force that drives our business improvements. We highly value the insights it provides, using them to enhance our products, services, and overall customer experience. Positive feedback helps us identify our strengths, while negative feedback guides us toward areas of improvement. Ultimately, customer response shapes our goals and objectives, ensuring we meet their evolving needs and deliver exceptional value.
What trends do you see emerging in your industry that are likely to shape its future growth and development?
Two exciting trends in the travel industry are sustainable or purpose-driven travel and the use of technology to enhance the travel experience. Sustainable travel emphasizes eco-friendly and socially responsible practices, while technology is transforming the industry through mobile apps, AI, and augmented/virtual reality. These trends demonstrate the industry's adaptation to meet changing traveler needs. As innovators, we're thrilled to be part of this evolution.
What have been the most rewarding and difficult aspects of your chosen career/business path?
The most rewarding aspect of my chosen career/business path has been the ability to make a positive impact on people's lives. Seeing our customers satisfied and happy with our services brings a great sense of fulfillment. Additionally, witnessing the growth and success of our venture, and the recognition we receive from industry peers, is incredibly rewarding. On the other hand, the most difficult aspect has been navigating the challenges and uncertainties that come with running a business. From the COVID pandemic to staying ahead of competitors and adapting to market changes, it requires continuous effort, resilience, and decision-making. Overcoming these difficulties has been a learning experience that has helped me grow both personally and professionally.
Are there any skills or areas of expertise that you think are essential for success in your field?
Firstly, you must be a traveler. You can't work in the travel industry without immersing yourself in the industry. Once you've embraced the spirit of exploration, it's time to acquire the most essential skills for the travel and mobility field, including strong communication, excellent customer service, industry knowledge, problem-solving abilities, time management, attention to detail, adaptability, and cultural sensitivity. These skills will be your compass, guiding you toward success in this exciting and dynamic industry.
How has working remotely or online impacted your business/venture over the past year?
We built our company as a remote-friendly working place from the beginning. We still have offices worldwide to support those willing to work in person or for meetings. With our team members scattered across the globe, we've become one big family connected virtually. It's like a global talent party, where diverse perspectives and expertise come together to create something amazing. The flexibility of remote work has unleashed a productivity whirlwind. Our team gets to work from anywhere, with no office shackles holding us down. We've mastered the art of round-the-clock operations, with team members in different time zones covering all bases. Thanks to technology, we're always in sync. Online tools and collaboration platforms keep us connected, making distance feel like a mere detail. Our virtual work environment is buzzing with constant communication, idea sharing, and seamless collaboration.
What tips would you like to offer to others who are in a similar position to you but looking to take their careers/businesses further?
Keep learning and stay passionate. Network, collaborate, and create magic together. Embrace change and ride the wave of innovation. Delight customers with exceptional service. Take calculated risks and unleash your inner superhero. Stay resilient and conquer challenges!
Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers that we haven’t already discussed?
Absolutely! I think people may think of joining our team. So, I'd like to leave a small message for them. If you're seeking an exciting and innovative company to be a part of, look no further. Joining our team means joining a vibrant community of passionate individuals who are dedicated to making a difference in the travel industry. We foster a culture of creativity, collaboration, and continuous learning, where every voice is valued and ideas are encouraged to flourish. We offer an environment that promotes growth, personal development, and the opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects that shape the future of travel. So, if you're ready to embark on an incredible journey with a cool and forward-thinking company, we invite you to join us and be a part of something extraordinary.
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