Do you want to become an independent travel agent? There are money to be earned but also lot’s of other benefits. And, most important thing, the entry barrier in the travel agents universe can be easily passed with the assistance from the right business, in this case i’m discussing about focused independent travel agents platforms like globaltravel.com.
It’s common for people to mistakenly believe that travel agents get a lot of free travel or free travel perks like upgrades, etc. They don’t. Maybe they used to 25 or more years ago. But the free travel and VIP treatment is reserved mostly for agents or agencies selling a LOT of a specific travel supplier’s product. Yes, there are familiarization trips for a travel agent to experience the product, but they are fast paced, high intensity, long days, and require a lot of focus and energy. Simply put, they are no vacation.
Key qualities and skills for travel agents ? Once you know your customer as good as you possibly can, it’s time to start giving them some ideas of what they can do with their plans, money and time and to start planning their trip and sell them a travel product. Think about how you would like to be approached by a travel agent yourself! Try to ask as many open questions as possible. These are questions that cannot simply be answered by a ‘yes’ or a ‘no’. Let as much come from the customer self as possible. Don’t put words in their mouths. Ask them to tell about a previous holiday experience they enjoyed, instead of asking them if they like beach holidays. Find additional info at Independent Travel Agent.
Travel agents advantages over online booking websites ? They offer insurance. From guaranteeing your hotel is available to knowing if the excursion company is legitimate, booking through a travel agent ensures travelers will not get duped. And they provide insurance for medical emergencies and trip cancellations. They’re there 24/7. Travel agents are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. They’re there with you throughout the booking process and follow up afterward. On the other hand, contacting an OTA’s customer service line often means wading through a chain of people. Parson said she spent six and a half hours over three days speaking with Expedia’s customer service department.
Travel agents make sure you don’t have unpleasant surprises like unexpected resort or tourism fees. If there are cancellations due to weather or other cancellations, a travel agent can redo your itinerary with little stress and effort on your part. Also, if you have a theme vacation in mind but only have a vague idea of how to carry it out, a travel agent can help turn that vision into reality. If you’re willing to do all the planning and organizing, it can be cheaper to plan your own trip. Also, if you’re planning a short trip without a lot of details, you’re probably better off doing your own legwork. An agent may steer you to a hotel or resort that offers the agent the best commission. That doesn’t mean you’ll get the best deal or experience. Your itinerary may be less flexible if you use a travel agent. You probably won’t be able to stay an extra day at a location with which you fall in love.
When opening its doors in 1994, GlobalTravel.com founders Michael Gross and Randy Warren essentially pioneered the home-based Travel Agent model in the U.S. and abroad. Now, as the industry leader, GlobalTravel.com is uniquely positioned to help you on your path to success. When it comes to starting your own business, you want to work with a company you know you can trust and one that can help make you successful. We show you how to become a travel agent and give you the tools to succeed as an Independent Travel Agent. Source: https://www.globaltravel.com/.