Characteristics of a successful travel agency
The travel industry is not for the faint of heart. You must engage your creative and logical sides on a daily basis to recommend, book and manage incredible travel experiences for your customers. You are a salesperson, marketer, accountant and customer service representative all rolled into one! If you have what it takes, this is one of the most exciting and rewarding jobs you can find! Initially, of course, you will need to register your business under the law.
Whether you are ready to grow your business by hiring another employee or just want to improve yourself as an agent, these are the characteristics that distinguish outstanding travel agents from good ones!
- Knowledge
When travelers choose to use a travel agent instead of booking a trip on their own, they are looking for experience. Turn yourself into an information sponge and soak up everything you need to know about airlines, airports, destinations, restaurants and accommodations. Read articles and travel publications to stay informed. Don’t be afraid to ask your suppliers questions about the products you buy.
- Professionalism
Have high expectations of professionalism for yourself and your employees. Check spelling in your emails and quotes. Put in place effective processes for making and managing bookings, rather than just “figuring it out” as you go along. Consider introducing or enforcing a personal dress code so you feel on top of your game, even if you work from home!
3. Enthusiasm
Enthusiasm is contagious. Be excited about what you are selling and your customers will realize it. Be that crazy person who loves Mondays. Keep your standards high and set goals ahead of yourself. Remember to save a lot of time in the year for your own travels. This will keep you excited and passionate about what you are doing!
- People skills
Are you able to pick up on the subtle signals of communication? Are you able to understand what a client really wants when they have difficulty expressing it clearly? Do you know how and when to close the deal? Some of these things come naturally, but a lot can be learned by simply paying attention. Become a researcher of human nature, even when you’re not at work, and you’ll begin to develop a keen ability to read people. - Honesty
Be honest and forthright about rates, rules and regulations. Don’t try to sell something you don’t think your travelers will like. Referrals and recommendations are your best form of advertising, but they simply won’t happen if you don’t maintain the highest standards of honesty. - Resourcefulness
A great travel agent has the ability to think on their feet and adapt to new situations. Whether it’s a forced schedule change, an unusual request, or a missed connection, it’s important to be savvy. Learn how to stay calm and handle emergencies like a professional. Figure out what resources are available to you and make it happen! Your clients will think you are a miracle worker! - Empathy
Even if you do everything right in the booking process, travel arrangements can often go awry. Airlines get delayed, bags get lost, travelers can get sick. The fact that the incident that occurred was not your fault does not mean you are not compassionate. Be an advocate for your client whenever you can. Use your experience to reach out to airlines and travel insurance companies. If there is really nothing you can do, offer your best suggestions and your sincere sympathy. Be considerate and let them feel heard and understood.