There are countless obstacles to becoming a successful travel agent, from the time it takes to learn, expand your client base and grow your business to the many misconceptions people have about travel agents in 2019.
Therefore, perhaps unsurprisingly, many experienced agents consider patience and drive to be their most important character traits as there is a whole lot to learn and results don't always come so quickly.
"It's hard work and money earned doesn't come right away," said AGENTatHOME Community member Natalie G.
"It takes much more proactive thinking and initiative," added Hannah H.
A lack of guidance in the early stages can also trip up agents who are just getting started in what is a competitive industry.
"The hardest thing I found to be a travel agent is lack of mentorship. Belonging to a host agency does not help to navigate this industry's waters," said AGENTatHOME Community member Nicole A. "I do believe it's a great start. You can get higher commissions and insurance protection from any false misrepresentation on their part. However, the two I've been with really lacked strong mentorship."
"With all the educational tools, tips, best practice, meetings and advice from others, it is still difficult to find your footing," she added. "You find yourself spending a lot of time learning to become knowledgeable in a particular area, but never learned how to sell."
In addition to knowledge, making a profit requires having clients in the first place so finding them is crucial. "A lot of people think that if you let it be known that you are a travel agent, they will automatically search you out to book but that is not the case," said Sherrill S from the AGENTatHOME Community. "It isn't the same as just sitting at the Internet and finding the best deal that pops up."
"You need to have trusted suppliers and a lot of training."
Interaction is key, so agents who are willing to step outside of their comfort zone are the most likely to succeed.
"Go with an agency that is not a host agency but a good agency where you can learn and participate, meet suppliers, etc.," recommended Linda E., who encourages beginning agents to cast themselves in the same light as a financial advisor or lawyer.
"If you can charge like any other advisor would such as a financial advisor or lawyer, you can do well. It takes a lot of work and know-how. That is the most difficult part. It is not just getting the clients but knowing the nuances in travel to get it right all the time."
In this day and age, it's also imperative that agents have their own website and constantly remind travel consumers all of the ways that they provide value compared to OTAs, starting with how they save clients money.
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