Summary

Welcome to an inspiring conversation between Kelli Hayes Smith and industry experts Molly Johnson and Brad Turner from TERN. We’re diving deep into the world of workflows and how they can transform the way travel agents work. If you're looking to save time, boost efficiency, and create unforgettable client experiences, this episode is for you.

Learn about the must-have workflows that every travel agent needs, from managing new leads to keeping client touchpoints on track.

We’ll also explore how technology, including AI, can take your business to the next level. Discover how TERN’s CRM and project management platform is designed to help you streamline your operations and achieve your goals with confidence.

VISIT TERN IN THE WLC PARTNER PORTAL

Show Notes :

Join us on the Bliss to Abundance podcast as Wanderlust’s George Flynn and Kelli Hayes Smith explore the spine-chilling world of haunted travel! Discover eerie destinations across the U.S. and beyond, from the mystical streets of New Orleans to the historic charm of Salem, the ghostly fields of Gettysburg, and Charleston's haunted tales. We’ll also venture into iconic sites like The Stanley Hotel and Dracula’s castle in Romania.

In this episode, George and Kelli delve into the fascinating world of spooky travel and its pop culture connections. From haunted bus tours and the Tower of London to the eerie Annabelle doll and gripping crime museums, they explore how these places blend entertainment with a deep connection to history. Tune in for insights on approaching these haunted sites with respect and understanding.

Summary

Join us for a conversation between Kelli Hayes Smith and Justin Hinkle as they dive into the essential role of a website for travel professionals.

Discover why a polished online presence is non-negotiable and how a compelling homepage can captivate potential clients.

Learn about the power of a Google Business Page in establishing credibility and legitimacy. We explore the incredible benefits of websites in boosting SEO, driving content marketing, and generating leads.

Plus, find out why a mobile-friendly, responsive website is key to a seamless user experience. Our discussion wraps up with invaluable insights on tracking website metrics and leveraging data to enhance your online effectiveness.

Takeaways

• Professional Online Presence: Establishing a website is crucial for travel professionals to attract and connect with potential clients.
• Persuasive Homepage: Your homepage should showcase your expertise, solve client problems, and motivate visitors to book consultations.
• Google Business Page: This tool validates your business, providing reviews and essential information to boost client trust.
• SEO & Lead Generation: Websites enhance your SEO efforts, fuel content marketing, and generate valuable leads.
• Mobile-Friendly Design: Ensure your website is responsive and offers a flawless user experience, especially on mobile devices.
• Website Metrics: Tracking and analyzing data is vital to gauge your website's effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.

Chapters

• 00:00 - Introduction and Background
• 04:07 - The Necessity of a Website for Travel Professionals
• 08:19 - Creating a Persuasive Homepage
• 11:36 - The Role of a Google Business Page
• 19:19 - The Significance of Mobile-Friendly Websites
• 26:09 - Websites for Education, Content Marketing, and Lead Generation
• 35:00 - Tracking Website Metrics and Analyzing Data

LINKS :

Wanderlust Campus

Wanderlust Campus's Instagram

Wanderlust Campus Facebook Group

Suitcase Designs

Join Kelli Hayes Smith and Jonathan Morris of Legato host as they explore the exciting possibilities of becoming a travel agent in today's vibrant market. Together, they dispel the myth that succeeding as a travel agent is a thing of the past and affirm that it's absolutely achievable. Discover the immense value that travel agents bring, especially to millennials who appreciate their expertise and personalized service.

They dive into the challenges new agents face, such as industry fragmentation and the importance of finding a niche. They also emphasize the power of community over competition and the necessity for agents to embrace technology and deliver exceptional service.

Travel agent, becoming an agent, market potential, value of travel agents, specialization, industry fragmentation, community over competition, technology, exceptional service

• Becoming a travel agent is still a viable and rewarding career choice.
• Millennials highly value the expertise and personalized service travel agents provide.
• Specializing in a niche can help agents distinguish themselves and deliver superior service.
• While the industry is fragmented, leveraging technology and systems can help navigate this complexity.
• Embracing collaboration and fostering community over competition is key to success.
• Providing excellent service and staying adaptable to new technologies is essential to meet the needs of modern travelers.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction and Background 01:20 - Is it Still Possible to Become a Travel Agent? 03:10 - The Value of Using a Travel Agent in Today's Market 09:48 - Navigating the Fragmented Travel Industry 13:09 - Specializing in a Niche to Stand Out as an Agent 19:21 - The Importance of Collaboration and Community in the Travel Industry 28:22 - Avoiding MLM Agencies and Ensuring Data Security 34:01 - Choosing the Right Host Agency and Training

Episode Highlight

Join Kelli Hayes Smith as she sits down with Jen Haslacker, the dynamic Sales Director for Host Agency Partnerships at Arch Roam Right, to delve into the crucial role travel insurance plays for both travelers and travel advisors.

Listen to Kelli and Jen as they explore the numerous benefits of travel insurance, from post-departure coverage and medical benefits to protection against trip cancellations and delays.

Jen emphasizes why recommending travel insurance is essential for travel advisors to safeguard their clients and their own businesses.

She also shares insightful tips on selecting the right insurance company, presenting insurance options to clients, and effectively handling claims.

Additionally, the episode touches on the importance of commission protection and showcases some fascinating stories of unexpected claims.

• Travel Insurance
• Post-Departure Benefits
• Medical Coverage
• Trip Cancellation
• Travel Advisor
• Commission Protection

• Comprehensive Protection: Travel insurance offers vital post-departure benefits, including medical coverage, trip delay assistance, lost baggage recovery, and political and security evacuation.
• Advisor's Responsibility: It's imperative for travel advisors to recommend travel insurance to shield their clients and themselves from potential legal issues.
• Choosing Wisely: When selecting a travel insurance company, seek referrals, consider their claims turnaround time, and opt for companies rated A+ or higher by AM Best.
• Referral Policy: Travel advisors should direct insurance-related queries to the insurance company and avoid guaranteeing coverage themselves.
• Annual Plans Insight: Annual travel insurance plans might be more cost-effective but often come with reduced coverage limits.
• Commission Protection: Some insurance policies include commission protection, ensuring travel advisors receive their commission even if a client cancels their trip.

• 00:00 - Introduction and Background
• 03:14 - Understanding the Benefits of Travel Insurance
• 07:27 - Tips for Choosing the Right Travel Insurance Company
• 09:29 - Presenting Travel Insurance Options to Clients
• 20:33 - Unexpected Stories of Covered Claims

Tune in for an inspiring and informative episode that highlights the indispensable value of travel insurance, ensuring you and your clients are well-protected and prepared for any journey!

Summary

At the Path Symposium, we delved into cybersecurity and the evolving landscape of education in the travel industry.

Key insights highlighted the critical need to safeguard against fraud and scams, underscored the importance of robust education and training for travel advisors, and shed light on the intricate tech stack new agents must navigate.

Our industry is dedicated to nurturing and empowering the next generation of travel advisors, ensuring they bring professionalism and value to their clients.

Wanderlust Campus stands at the forefront, offering comprehensive training and education to tackle these challenges head-on.

Path Symposium, cybersecurity, education, travel industry, fraud, scams, training, tech stack, professionalism, value

• Safeguard against fraud and scams in the travel industry
• Robust education and training are vital for travel advisors
• Navigating the tech stack can be challenging for new agents
• Support and nurture the next generation of travel advisors
• Ensure professionalism and value for clients

Episode Highlights:

Come along for an eye-opening chat as Kelli Hayes Smith sits down with Angela Hughes, the mastermind behind Trips and Ships Luxury Travel. They dive deep into Angela's journey, from a greenhorn in the travel biz to dominating the luxury travel game.

Key Points Covered:

• Coaching & Mentoring: Angela stresses how crucial it is to guide and support new agents through their career path. Coaching isn’t just about giving advice; it's about nurturing growth and overcoming obstacles.

• The Luxury Conundrum: What screams luxury to you might not resonate with someone else. Angela breaks down this subjective concept, urging agents to understand their clients' unique definitions of luxury.

• High-End Sales & Profitability: Angela spills the beans on her secret recipe: selling top-notch products to boost your bank balance. Knowing your ideal client is the key to success.

• Navigating Mistakes: From choosing the wrong host agency to battling confidence issues, Angela and Kelli dish out advice on steering clear of common pitfalls.

Key Takeaways:

• Coaching Counts: For aspiring agents, having a mentor can make all the difference in the world.

• Define Luxury: It's not just about fancy hotels and first-class flights; it's about understanding what luxury means to your clients.

• Money Talks: Selling premium experiences isn't just a treat for clients; it's a savvy move for your wallet too.

• Choose Wisely: Your choice of host agency can make or break your career. Invest wisely in your business for long-term success.

• Believe & Achieve: Confidence isn't just nice to have; it's a must-have for success in travel.

• Community & Connections: To attract clients, get out there! Build bridges, forge connections, and watch your client base grow.

• Stay Sharp: The travel industry is always changing. Keep learning, adapting, and thriving.

Tune in for an enlightening conversation, sprinkled with invaluable insights for both budding and seasoned travel agents alike.

LINKS

Trips and Ships Luxury Travel

Today, Cyndi sits down with experts in Run Disney to help you understand how to sell Run Disney in your travel business.