1. The post-pandemic holiday boom
China was one of the last countries to lift restrictions earlier this year and re-open to tourists following the pandemic.
With the world’s borders open once again it’s no wonder there is “pent-up wanderlust” from the “catch-up consumer” and we’ve seen record sales with many agents booking twice as many holidays in January alone.
With soaring demand and thousands of holidays offers from our suppliers, you could train in April (we have one place remaining) and start booking holidays in May.
2. Travel agents are in demand
As tourists rush to make up for lost time and take longer trips to reconnect with loved ones, they also seek more guidance and reassurance from an actual person rather than booking online.
A report from the Association of Travel Agents (ABTA) has revealed that an increasing number of holidaymakers – 37% – are more likely to book with a travel professional now than before the pandemic. Book a client a holiday once and they are likely to book with you again.
3. Commissions and agent incentives are rising
ABTA’s report also revealed that 46% of travellers are expecting to spend more money on their holidays, which means bigger commission for agents.
Our agents are experiencing this first hand with average booking values at £4,285 per holiday, compared to £3,495 in October 2019.
Some tour operators are also offering agents “commission uplifts” and tax-free benefits, including high street vouchers, designer clothes and the latest technology and gadgets.
4. Specialise and reap the rewards
Many savvy agents are becoming experts in niche travel products that attract high-paying repeat clients. These include areas such as cruising which typically offers commission of around 15 per cent.
Our customer-facing brand Not Just Travel launched a new cruise division last year and recruited experts who can train you to become a ‘cruise master’ giving you the skills and credentials you need to succeed.
We also have over 10 key cruise trade partners giving us exclusive cruise deals to help you show your clients that you have the competitive edge.
5. Travel perks including FAM trips, and tours are popular
It’s no secret that travel agents get discounted holidays and educational trips (known as FAM or familiarisation trips) to learn about the places and products they’re selling.
Many travel suppliers are increasingly keen to host agents and boost business over the next year and give behind-the-scenes tours of new ships and hotels too.
We also host company events overseas for our consultants.
6. You can make a difference
Booking people’s dream holidays is incredibly satisfying, as is helping out when things go wrong.
During the pandemic and 2022’s airport delays and industry strikes, some tourists needed help switching flights last-minute. Many of our agents found this a positive.
By advising on flexible sales and refunds, they established lasting relationships and repeat clients.
So is NOW the right time to become a travel consultant with us? Take it from our franchisees.
