What I Wish I Knew Before Becoming a Travel Agent
Are you thinking about becoming a travel agent? The travel industry is fascinating to be a part of. You have an integral role in helping clients plan the vacation of a lifetime. Your expertise and experience will guide clients as they navigate the best destination, time of year, and itinerary for them.
It can be easy to think that a travel advisor has all the fun, games, and free travel, so I want to be completely upfront and honest with you.
Here are a few things I wish I knew when I first started:
1. There are Multiple Ways to Get Started
Joining an agency as an Independent Contractor is not the only way to get your foot in the travel industry. There are multiple ways to get started, depending on what you are looking for and hope to get out of this experience.
You could join a large agency as an employee and have leads handed to you. Here, you will experience defined standard operating procedures and have your hours and processes dictated precisely as the agency wants.
You could join a large host agency, for a fee. Large host agencies may allow you to develop your own brand and provide online support. This may sound appealing, however some agents may feel that there is not individual attention or guidance; especially those who are just starting out.
You could start an agency and create your own brand with added flexibility. Please note, starting your own agency does require you to have previous experience in the travel industry, along with licenses and affiliations.
Or you could join a boutique agency that operates with a smaller group of agents. Boutique agencies, due to their size, oftentimes provide more personalized attention and resources.
Soaring Holidays operates as a boutique host travel agency. We allow agents to develop a co-brand with Soaring Holidays. Agents work as independent contractors, identifying as Affiliates of Soaring Holidays. We provide online support and individualized attention to both new and existing agents!
2. Not All Agencies are Equal
You want to find the agency that is the right fit for you. This is paramount!
When I first started out as a travel advisor for a larger agency, I felt like I was entirely on my own to figure everything out. I wanted substantial training and mentorship but was thrown into the deep end of the industry.
Understanding what type of agency you are looking for is essential. What are your expectations for commission rates or finding leads? How do you learn best, and what kind of training or mentorship is most beneficial to you? As you enter into this new role, identifying the best means of support for you is vital.
It’s also a good idea to consider how much time you expect to invest in your role as a travel agent. Is travel advising something you want to have as a side hobby besides another job? Or are you hoping to enter the travel industry as your full-time career? Different agencies invest in training, marketing, and systems on varying levels. I encourage you to explore all of your opportunities and research feedback from previous or current travel advisors.
This is the time to consider the most important and find the perfect fit for you.
3. How Commission Works
It’s super important to know that travel advisors make the majority of their money from commissions. Depending on which type of agency you join, you are not being paid until AFTER a client travels. Different suppliers offer different commission splits, so certain agencies may offer a more significant commission split.
When you start your role, you will likely not receive consistent pay for at least a year. Many advisors start part-time and rely on another source of income until they grow a consistent client base and make this their full-time career.
At Soaring Holidays, commission is paid monthly after the client has traveled.
4. Developing Your ‘Niche’ is Essential to Becoming a Travel Agent
The last thing I wish I had known sooner is how essential it is to develop a unique ‘niche’ that centers around your ideal client audience.
It’s impossible to cater your services to everyone. The most successful travel agents recognize this and communicate effectively to a specific audience. Maybe your focus is family trips to theme parks or luxury all-inclusive resorts. Perhaps you choose to specialize in international travel or honeymoon couples.
No matter what you choose, specializing in a particular niche and client audience is one of the best ways to build your foundation as you break into the travel industry.
Soaring Holidays agents specialize in a variety of travel destinations. A targeted training path is developed once the agent decides upon their niche.
Starting a career in the travel industry can be both rewarding and challenging, and understanding the options, expectations, and best practices will help set you up for success. By choosing an agency that supports you, understanding how commissions work, and honing in on a unique niche, you’ll be well on your way to building a thriving travel business.
If you’re passionate about creating unforgettable experiences and looking for an agency that offers personalized support, valuable training, and a flexible co-branding opportunity, Soaring Holidays might be the perfect fit. Let us help you turn your love for travel into a fulfilling career!