by The CCRA BlogLast updated:: 11:45 PM ET, Mon September 19, 2016 As a travel agent or professional, the firsthand knowledge garnered when visiting a destination or experiencing a service is invaluable when selling to clients.
FAM or Familiarization Trips are heavily discounted by travel suppliers and according to CCRA, "often prove to be an amazing time and are well worth the investment if you are looking to add some value to your agency."
There are a few reasons FAM Trips are a must for travel agents:
Educational Opportunity
The firsthand look can include, "tourist hotspots… a behind-the-scenes look at hotels, tour operators, and even cruise ships," CCRA said, though the company urges travel professionals to not, "hop aboard every interesting FAM trip opportunity," just ones that are pertinent to your business. Remember to take a lot of notes!
Resume Builder
FAM trips give agents authoritative knowledge, which increases their stature with clients. Really staying on top of trends, changes and new suppliers at a particular locale could grant agents the coveted "Destination Expert" designation.
[READMORE] READ MORE: 3 Crucial Elements to a Swiftly Constructed, Top-Tier Supplier Network [/READMORE]
Networking
Going on weeklong trips with other agents and suppliers will inevitably lead to an exchange of business cards. Continued contact could lead to interesting brainstorming, and possible referrals. "Solid networking is the key to any successful business," CCRA advised.
Marketing Your Agency
It's OK to let everyone know you're having fun! Blogs and frequent social media posts during a FAM trip are good for getting people more aware of your business and prove you were there.
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