A profile deviation approach to enhancing relationship marketing outcomes

Abstract The study examines seven key dimensions of online customer engagement behaviour and uses these to build ideal and baseline profiles. This ensures verbal and statistical correspondence. This approach allows identification of critical customer engagement behaviour to invest in and which one to invest in for maintenance. The study finds that deviating from the critical behaviours has negative implications for the spreading of positive word of mouth and brand loyalty. The findings and the methodological procedures are of interest to hospitality managers and academics. Data for the study was obtained from 326 customers at various hotels in Mauritius. The configural conceptual framework was tested using profile deviation to assure verbal and statistical correspondence leading to clear actionable recommendations for managers. The analysis goes beyond the approach in extant research by examining both the global and disaggregated impacts on PWOM and brand loyalty. The theoretical and managerial implications of the study are further discussed.