Gedeon has emphasized the importance of creating intuitive systems within Trevello, particularly for new advisors from non-travel backgrounds. "Our platform is designed to ensure that advisors can easily locate essential resources such as supplier information, marketing materials, and booking tools without having to navigate complicated interfaces," she explained. This user-friendly approach significantly reduces the barriers that many newcomers face when trying to engage with the industry.
Since joining Trevello in 2018, Gedeon has observed a number of industry transformations. Initially, the company operated primarily as a host agency, using traditional tiered commission structures and intricate compensation models that, while effective, limited the agency’s ability to innovate. "We provided support to our advisors but were confined by existing industry norms," Gedeon recounted.
Recognizing these constraints, Trevello began to prioritize advisors’ feedback. This led to the launch of Momentum, a groundbreaking commission model that offers new advisors a starting commission rate of 85%, increasing to 100% after reaching $15,000 in sales, irrespective of their sales volume or tenure. "This approach would have been considered radical in 2018. Today, we are no longer just a host agency; we have transformed into a business acceleration network," Gedeon noted.
Trevello has also introduced various initiatives aimed at empowering advisors, including service fee models and wealth-building programs. "Culturally, we have shifted from merely providing services to genuinely partnering in our advisors’ success. Our focus is on facilitating their long-term growth beyond individual bookings," Gedeon added.
As the landscape of the travel industry evolves, it’s crucial for independent travel advisors to delegate various tasks effectively. Here are the Top 5 Skills for Independent Travel Advisors essential for achieving success:
1. A Genuine Passion for Travel
Clients can detect inauthentic enthusiasm. Advisors don’t have to visit every destination, but they should possess an innate curiosity and genuine passion for travel.
2. Relationship Building
Rather than focusing solely on sales skills, successful advisors prioritize building trust with clients. They maintain communication even when there are no immediate bookings, celebrating milestones such as anniversaries and remembering personal details about clients’ families.
3. Business Acumen
Understanding finance, marketing, and time management is crucial for independent travel advisors. Many can expertly organize trips but struggle to sustain a profitable business. Developing strong business acumen is essential for long-term success.
4. Adaptability
The travel industry is in a constant state of flux, influenced by evolving supplier policies, advancing technology, changing client expectations, and global events. Advisors who thrive are those who embrace change and view it as an opportunity rather than an obstacle.
5. Humility Coupled with Confidence
Advisors need the confidence to charge appropriate service fees and stand behind their value, while also maintaining humility to continue learning, seeking assistance when necessary, and acknowledging when they need to research further for answers.
As the travel industry continues to adapt, mastering these skills will enable independent travel advisors to not only meet current challenges but also thrive in an ever-changing environment. For more insights, check out Travel Advisors, which provide valuable resources and community support for independent professionals navigating this dynamic landscape.
