The path to becoming an independent travel agent

Do you think at becoming an independent travel agent? There are money to be made but also many other benefits. And, most important thing, the entry barrier in the travel agents universe can be easily passed with the help from the right business, in this case i’m talking about specialized independent travel agents networks 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 ? It’s not all about how to sell travel packages in this job! Part of the travel agent skills and qualities are excellent customer service skills and telephone manner, strong communication and sales skills and the ability to prioritize and cope with pressure at busy times. I believe that one of the most important things in selling travel is to get to know the customer as well as you can. The more you can find out about the wishes of the people in front of you (or on the other side of your website/email/phone), the easier it will be to find a product that they will be happy with. Read more details at Become an 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 have relationships with chefs, hotels, cruise lines and tour operators, which can net you some extras. Travel agents may score you spa time and credits for meals and drinks. If you’re planning on a cruise, the travel agent may even have a deal that gets you an onboard credit. You can use an online travel agent or a brick-and-mortar agent. Brick-and-mortar agents are making a comeback, but online travel agents often have reviews that are easy to compare. Individual travel agents may work with you to personalize your tour and make sure you have the experience you are seeking. Make sure your agent takes time with you. The American Society of Travel Agents or the International Association of Travel Agents Network are good resources for reliable, local agents.

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. Visit: https://www.globaltravel.com/.