Having a niche like family travel helps independent travel agents attract customers.
With so much travel information available to everyone online, the business volume for travel agents has suffered. Today, travel agents need to not only be able to book trips but to add value for consumers such as finding great deals, having expertise in a niche such as cruises, luxury travel or adventure travel, and providing service throughout the trip. Many independent travel consultants are not truly independent but are independent contractors who work through existing travel agencies. The more training and experience an agent has, the greater her chances of success.
Instructions
Get Educated
1. Study to be a travel agent. Training programs range from quickie online courses that take only a few hours to bachelor's degrees. Many travel agents have an associate's degree from a vocational school. The more education you have, the greater your chances of landing a position as a contractor with a successful agency and attracting customers. The American Society of Travel Agents lists schools that are members of its organization. (see Resources) Or check to see whether local colleges or universities have courses.
2. Join an organization. Your chances of success are greatly enhanced if you are connected with one of the industry's professional associations such as the American Society of Travel Agents and the Outside Sales Support Network, especially for independent and home-based travel agents. (see Resources) These organizations offer advanced training, job boards and networking.
3. Focus on a niche. This is not a requirement, but besides time savings, the main reason consumers seek a travel agent is to find someone who knows more than they do. Try to gain expertise in areas that are sought after, such as luxury travel and cruises. The American Society of Travel Agents has courses in many niches including mature adult travel and travel in specific countries.
4. Connect with a travel agency. The American Society of Travel Agents and the Outside Sales Support Network both offer job boards for travel agencies seeking independent agents with whom to connect. Look for jobs on these sites as well as on standard job boards such as Career Builder. Independent travel consultants can also work for entities outside of agencies by planning travel for corporations or working with specific tourist organizations.
Tags: American Society, American Society Travel, Society Travel, Society Travel Agents, travel agents, Agents Outside