Sara Butruff. (Sara Butruff)
Travel Advisor Success Stories focus on veteran advisors and how they achieved success. Here’s a look Sara Butruff, owner of Travel Leaders Galaxy Travel.
How did you get your start as a travel advisor?
I went to college at Rasmussen Business College in 1993 for a business degree with an emphasis on travel. I was able to get a job at a local travel agency while I was going to school and just fell in love with it.
How did you build your business over the years?
I started in the industry with a large group that I helped and eventually took over, and those guests built my business throughout the years. I still have that group and those clients today. I also am extremely active in my local community, whether it is the chamber of commerce or the rotary club.
What characteristics make you a successful advisor?
My attitude is that I look at issues or difficulties as opportunities to make myself better. I love to have fun with most everything. If you can’t have fun at work, why be there? If you cannot have fun with your clients, what’s the point? I love creating long-lasting relationships with my clients and getting to know their entire families. And kindness with all suppliers and clients goes a long way.
What were your greatest challenges?
COVID, for sure, was my biggest challenge. To be able to retain and gain clients during that time was our greatest success. I never wanted to push travel during that time, but I stayed in front of our clients on social media conducting twice-weekly Storytime with Sara posts, where I read children’s books and dressed the part as I read – and people loved that.
What are your greatest accomplishments?
Receiving the 2021 Businesswomen of the Year award from Dakota County Regional Chamber of Commerce in Eaton, Minn., and Travel Leaders’ most prized recognition, The Golden Legacy Award, in 2022.
What tips can you provide advisors new to the industry?
Be real and honest with your clients. We are not in a transaction industry. We are in a service industry where we continuously connect with our clients throughout the year, whether they have booked with us or not. I send hand-written notes, text messages or just call to check in with them and see how they are doing.
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