Are you considering a career as a travel agent but don’t know how to become one without experience?
It is possible to be a travel agent even without any prior experience. All you need to do is to get the necessary training and certifications and register under a host agency.
There are host agencies that specialize in working with new agents without experience. These agencies will offer you all the training you need to help you succeed.
If you want to know more about becoming a travel agent without experience, read on.
What is a travel agent?
A travel agent’s role is to help clients (individuals, groups, corporations) make travel arrangements. These may include booking flights, hotels, tour reservations, and dinner reservations or recommendations.
Their main duty is offering clients travel assistance or organizing the entire travel. They ensure their service suits the client’s financial limitations and business travel expectations.
Travel agents are also well-appraised on important information, as clients’ safety is paramount. So they ensure they do proper research online and through calls to ensure the planned journey is successful.
How to become a travel agent without experience
Becoming a travel agent without experience only requires three steps. They are;
1. Get formal training and certifications
As a travel agent, you will need training or certification to show you are an expert in your field. You can get a degree in a related field or pursue a travel agent certificate.
If you choose to get a degree, go for a related field, such as tourism or international affairs and marketing.
The Travel Institute offers the Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) test if you choose to go for a travel agent certificate. After a few years of working with this certificate, you can take additional exams to get a more advanced certification.
Some of these advanced certifications include the Certified Travel Associate (CTA) and the Certified Travel Counselor (CTA).
2. Develop your interpersonal skills
As a travel agent, communicating effectively is key to retaining clients. This is why it is important you have effective communication and interpersonal skills.
Additionally, you can also develop other skills that are crucial in this field, including;
- Problem-solving skills
- Computer skills
- Negotiation skills
3. Register under a host agency
After getting your certifications and developing the required skills, the next step is to register under a host agency.
You will benefit from being a member of a hosting agency in many ways. Ranging from getting marketing techniques, insurance, legal setup, special commissions, and deals or prices the agency is entitled to.
Furthermore, you will get more training programs to help you become better in this field. Some recommended hosting agencies for new agents with no experience include;
1. Outside agents
An outside agent is a top hosting agency that works directly with agents to implement a dynamic process. These dynamic processes are guaranteed to grow, evolve, and promote highly successful travel businesses over time.
They provide agency portals that connect agents with travel industries and custom websites to help you grow your business. Also, they offer client management tools and group promotion tools to help.
2. Uniglobe travel center
Uniglobe travel center is another top-notch hosting agency for new agents in this field. They offer a one-on-one coaching mentorship program for new or inexperienced members.
This program will introduce you to the tools and resources required in this field. Also, it teaches you how to create itineraries and make bookings. In addition, they familiarize you with relevant laws and customer protection rules.
3. Nexion travel group
The nexion travel group is a host travel agency that aims to empower and inspire new agents. They place new agents under the legacy program, 18 weeks of classroom training with an experienced instructor.
After completing the program, they ensure they give you all the necessary tools and guidance to succeed.
4. Cruise planners
Cruise Planners is specifically known for their ability to groom new or inexperienced agents into successful ones. They have been in business since 1994 and have outlets in every United States.
As a new member of this agency, you are placed first under the supervision of an experienced agent. There, you get adequate insight into sales, marketing, and how to build a successful business.
How much can you earn as a travel agent?
According to the Bureau for Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for travel agents is $43,810. They further stated that this is average and can vary depending on how the agent works.
For part-time travel agents, the BLS states that their annual wage is $28,280, while full-time travel agents earn as high as $74,220.
FAQs
How do travel agents make money?
Travel agents make money via commissions gotten from sales.
What is the job outlook for travel agents?
According to the Bureau for Labor Statistics, job opportunities for travel agents are expected to decline by about 12% in the next decade. This is because of the growth of travel websites.
How much does it cost to become a travel agent?
It can cost from $100 to $900 for the Travel Agent Training Programs complete certification.
How do travel agents get clients?
Travel agents get clients mostly through hosting agencies.
Conclusion
Becoming a travel agent without having the experience is not an impossible feat. With the right certification and training, you can register under a hosting agency and kick-start your career.
Several reliable agencies specialize in training inexperienced agents. After registering under them, you will get the necessary support and tools to help you succeed in this field.
I hope you enjoyed reading this article. If you did, you should also explore jobs for people with no experience.
Thanks for reading.
