by Lisa Iannucci
Last updated: 10:00 PM ET, Fri December 29, 2017
The New York Times Travel Show will soon take place (January 26-28) in New York City's Jacob K. Javits Center.
You can either walk through the front doors completely unsure of what you want to do and who you want to talk to, or you can take this opportunity to get more out of a travel agent conference.
There are many travel agent conferences that you might attend this year, including the 2018 ASTA Global Convention, where more than 1,000 travel professionals connect with over 200 suppliers.
Other travel agent conferences include The National Association of Career Travel Agents in Washington, D.C. from August 23-25 and continuing at sea aboard the Carnival Pride Cruise Ship from August 26th through September 2nd. There will be a reception, dinner party, panels, a trade show, speaking sessions and travel industry workshops.
There is also the 2018 Travel Industry Exchange in West Palm Beach, Florida between October 9-11. Finally, there is the United States Tour Operations Association Annual Conference and Marketplace in Phoenix, Arizona from November 26-30.
However, if you don't know how to 'work' a conference, you really won't get much out of it:
Stay Focused
Make sure the conference or seminar is focused on what your agency books.
"If your client base prefers higher-end luxury cruising then there's little need to attend a conference on Carnival cruises targeting families - unless that's a new audience to be targeted," said Eileen Entin, Diamond Cruise & Travel in Trenton, New Jersey.
"Take a good hard look at your business and decide what areas you really need to grow or change," said Carol Nunnery, Dream Vacations Franchise Owner and Vacation Specialist in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. "Make a list of 3-5 things you'd like to focus on and network. Seek out people with successful businesses and ask a few questions. Be open to learning and growing."
Research and Prepare
Check out the speakers and prepare questions in advance.
"These conferences are often an opportunity to hear from some very knowledgeable people with insider experience," said Entin. "Think about what your clients might want to ask and go as their representative. Then use it for a blog post or newsletter to keep your clients up to date."
Have an Open Mind
"The travel industry has undergone a major transformation and the changes keep coming," said Entin. "Don't resist it; learn how to use it and you might find there are changes to benefit your agency."
Be in the Moment
Take full advantage of being at your conference with all the experts and travel agents.
"If it's a conference on a cruise, you are also most likely surrounded by beautiful scenery," said Breaux. "Soak up the knowledge, ask your questions, and try what the all-inclusive or cruise ship is known for-such as the steak place, 4-D movie theater, salsa class, or music. This is also why you came: to tell your clients about the firsthand experience."
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