Commissions and fees are what you earn as a travel agent.It's equally important to draw customers in and meet their needs as it is to find those commissions.One of the main focuses of your job should be networking and making sales because without customers, you have no way of earning commission.
Step 1: High-end customers are the focus.
The exception to this rule is people who have more expendable cash.People who have less time to make their own arrangements are willing to spend the cash to have you do it.You can use your time and resources wisely if you focus on this crowd.
Step 2: Look for the money.
Many companies have stopped paying commission to travel agents.There are hotels, cruises, and resorts that still pay commission.The more expensive resorts and cruises are more likely to pay commission.
Step 3: It's a good idea to be upfront about the fees.
If you don't want to go someplace where you'll be able to bank a commission, many agents now charge a fee to clients on certain packages or destinations.The client won't be surprised when you tell them what you charge.A fee is usually charged for custom packages that require more extensive planning.
Step 4: Every interaction should be professional.
Staying professional will help you stand out as a top-notch agent.You should still try to connect with your client, but make sure you keep your conversations clean and engaging.Cussing and dirty jokes are not allowed.
Step 5: You should be an expert in your field.
To meet the customers' needs, you need to be able to discuss your destinations and packages with confidence.Traveling to the locations you book can help, but so can gathering stories and photos from other customers.You can attend travel expos and product trainings.Use travel books and websites to find out more about the locations.You'll be better prepared to serve clients if you know more.
Step 6: It's a good idea to specialize in a specific area.
You can become an expert in a certain area if you narrow down what you specialize in.It makes it easier for you to draw people in, as you have a niche they can connect to.You could specialize in certain types of trips.Your main focus could be European spa retreats, family vacations across the U.S., or East Asia excursions.
Step 7: Surprise your clients with complimentary extras.
When you add small things to a trip for your clients, they'll remember it.You have to get to know your clients and learn what they want.When they arrive at their hotel, you could offer them a complimentary glass of wine or a small tour of the city.
Step 8: Don't be a pushy salesperson.
A sales job is part of being a travel agent.Most people want to trust their travel agent.They don't want to feel like you're always trying to sell them something.When you're networking and trying to gain new customers, it's a good idea to ask them about their job and home life first.
Step 9: Your customers want you to be responsive.
When you're talking to a new client, ask them what their ideal vacation is.Ask about the types of hotels and activities they like.You can better meet your customer's needs by getting to know them.Ask them what they like and dislike about an ideal vacation they've been on before.
Step 10: Advanced packages should be put together.
Anyone can book a hotel or airplane ticket online.The more complicated trips are what your customers need you for.Your clients may be able to book a weekend trip to a nearby city.You're just the person to help clients navigate a river cruise in a foreign country.
Step 11: Provide enough information for your clients to feel comfortable.
People prefer to know what they're getting into.Once a person books with you, make sure you give them all the information they need, including how much things will cost, what they're going to need to take with them, and where and when they should be.
Step 12: The value you offer should be shown to customers.
Many people don't understand why they should use a travel agent.The average person can't handle things like coordinating group travel and booking international trips as smoothly as you can.If you use this to your advantage, you will be able to make trips hassle-free.
Step 13: Use discounts to get customers.
As a travel agent, you can often get better deals than your customers can.This can be used to draw customers in.Few people are resistant to a good deal.
Step 14: There are visual aids on hand.
You need to help the customer experience what the trip will be like.They are more likely to commit if you have them imagine themselves on the beach with sand in their toes.Videos and photos from the location are the best way to help someone visualize a trip.Anecdotes about the area can get someone interested.You could tell them about the best meal you had there.
Step 15: Don't forget your elevator pitch.
You should be able to say what makes your company different in 3 sentences or less.If you meet someone who is interested, you should tell them what they need to know about you.You might say, "I'm actually a travel agent!"Trips that make you feel like a native are what I focus on.Most people love the packages I've created for places like Vietnam and Singapore, and I would be happy to modify them to your liking.
Step 16: You can use social media to your advantage.
Social media can be used to build a customer base and create a community.Information about various destinations or tips for traveling can be used to engage customers.Use the page to encourage your customers to buy your products.
Step 17: A professional web page can be created.
Having a website makes you seem like a professional.Your website should give an introduction to you and make it clear what your travel focus is.It should allow clients to get in contact with you.A way for clients to book on your website is a good idea.They can do it at their convenience.
Step 18: Encourage your clients to be involved in the community.
Ask your customers to share their travel experiences on your page.Make your page a platform for them to tell their stories and rave about their vacations, which will get others interested.Most people like talking about their vacations.