What personality traits do travel agents have?

We surveyed 2,836 travel agents to learn what personality traits and interests make them unique. Here are the results.

Travel agents are enterprising and conventional

Travel agents tend to be predominantly enterprising individuals, which means that they are usually quite natural leaders who thrive at influencing and persuading others. They also tend to be conventional , meaning that they are usually detail-oriented and organized, and like working in a structured environment.

If you are one or both of these archetypes, you may be well suited to be a travel agent. However, if you are realistic, this is probably not a good career for you. Unsure of where you fit in? Take the career test now .

Here’s how the Holland codes of the average travel agent break down:

The top personality traits of travel agents are extraversion and social responsibility

Travel agents score highly on extraversion , meaning that they rely on external stimuli to be happy, such as people or exciting surroundings. They also tend to be high on the measure of social responsibility , indicating that they desire fair outcomes and have a general concern for others.

Once again, let’s break down the components of the personality of an average travel agent:

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8 Characteristics a Successful Travel Agent Should Have

Becoming a travel agent is a career path many people dream of, and with the right characteristics, it can be successful. The travel industry is constantly evolving, and it takes a specific type of person to thrive in this field. In this article, we will discuss the characteristics that make a successful travel agent.

Passion for Travel

One of the most essential characteristics of a travel agent is a passion for travel. Travel agents need to understand different cultures, customs, and destinations deeply. They should be able to share their knowledge and enthusiasm with clients to help them plan the perfect trip. If you're not passionate about travel, it will be challenging to become a successful travel agent.

Excellent Communication Skills

Travel agents need to have excellent communication skills. They need to be able to listen to their clients' needs and preferences and communicate effectively with them.

Communication skills are particularly important when explaining travel itineraries, discussing travel policies, and answering questions. A successful travel agent should be able to explain complex travel information in a way that clients can understand.

Attention to Detail

Attention to detail is another essential characteristic of a successful travel agent—every little detail matters regarding travel planning, from flight times to hotel accommodations, to transportation. A successful travel agent should be detail-oriented and able to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.

Flexibility

Flexibility is another essential characteristic of a successful travel agent. The travel industry is constantly changing, and travel agents must adapt to new situations quickly. They need to be able to handle unexpected problems, such as flight cancellations, and find solutions quickly. When you become a travel agent, you should be able to think on your feet and remain calm under pressure.

Strong Sales Skills

Travel agents need to have strong sales skills to be successful. They need to be able to sell travel packages and convince clients to book trips with them. A successful travel agent should be able to understand their clients' needs and preferences and offer them the best travel options that meet their requirements.

The travel industry relies heavily on technology, and travel agents must be tech-savvy to succeed. They need to be familiar with booking systems, online travel agencies, and social media. Successful travel agents should be able to use technology to their advantage to find the best travel deals for their clients.

Excellent Customer Service

Excellent customer service is another essential characteristic of a successful travel agent. Travel agents need to be able to build relationships with their clients and offer exceptional service. They should be able to understand their clients' needs and preferences and go above and beyond to ensure their clients have an enjoyable and stress-free travel experience.

Networking Skills

Networking skills are also important for travel agents. They need to be able to build relationships with suppliers, hoteliers, and other industry professionals to get the best deals for their clients. A successful travel agent should be able to attend industry events, trade shows, and conferences to network and expand their business.

Becoming a travel agent is a career path that requires a unique set of skills and characteristics. Passion for travel, excellent communication skills, attention to detail, flexibility, strong sales skills, tech-savvy, excellent customer service, and networking skills are some of the most essential characteristics of a successful travel agent. If you're considering becoming a travel agent, it's necessary to develop these characteristics to succeed in this field.

Become a travel agent with the help of Gateway Travel. We provide many training opportunities and resources to help you acquire the skills and knowledge needed to become a successful travel agent. Our team of experts can guide you through the process and help you build a successful career in the travel industry. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve your goals as a travel agent.

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Discover the 7 Key Characteristics of Leading Travel Agents

The travel industry is highly competitive, and travel agents must possess certain characteristics to succeed. These characteristics include excellent communication skills, attention to detail, and a passion for travel. In this article, we will explore the seven characteristics of a successful travel agent.

1. Strong Communication Skills

Travel agents must communicate effectively with clients to understand their needs and preferences. They must also be able to provide clear and concise information about travel destinations, accommodations, and activities. This requires excellent listening skills and the ability to articulate information in a way that is easy for clients to understand.

Additionally, travel agents must be able to communicate with travel suppliers, such as airlines, hotels, and tour operators. They must negotiate prices and secure reservations, often in a fast-paced environment. Strong communication skills are essential in building supplier relationships and securing the best deals for their clients.

2. Attention to Detail

Travel agents must be meticulous in their work, paying attention to even the smallest details. They must accurately book flights, hotels, and other travel arrangements, ensuring that all information is correct and up-to-date. They must also be able to handle any changes or issues that may arise during the travel process.

Attention to detail is also essential when planning travel itineraries. Travel agents must be able to create customized itineraries that meet their client’s specific needs and preferences. This requires careful research and planning and the ability to anticipate and address potential issues before they arise.

3. Passion for Travel

Successful travel agents have a passion for travel and a deep understanding of the industry. They are knowledgeable about different travel destinations, cultures, and customs and can provide clients with valuable insights and advice.

This passion for travel also translates into a willingness to go above and beyond for clients. Successful travel agents are willing to spend extra time researching and planning to ensure their clients have the best travel experience.

4. Strong Sales Skills

Travel agents must be able to sell travel packages and services to their clients. This requires strong sales skills, including identifying client needs, making recommendations, and closing deals.

Travel agents must be able to build relationships with their clients, establishing trust and rapport. They must also communicate the value of their services and packages, highlighting the benefits and features that are most important to their clients.

5. Problem-Solving Skills

Travel can be unpredictable, and issues can arise at any time. Successful travel agents must be able to quickly and effectively address any problems that may arise during the travel process.

This requires strong problem-solving skills, including thinking on their feet and creating creative solutions to unexpected challenges. They must remain calm under pressure, working to resolve issues promptly and efficiently.

6. Flexibility

The travel industry is constantly changing, and travel agents must be able to adapt to these changes quickly. This requires flexibility, including working flexible hours and adjusting travel plans.

Travel agents can also adjust to the evolving requirements of their clients. They can modify travel plans to meet changing schedules or preferences and handle unexpected changes or issues during the travel process.

7. Technology Skills

Technology is an essential part of the travel industry, and successful travel agents must be proficient in using a wide range of tools and platforms. This includes booking and reservation systems, online travel agencies, and communication tools such as email and social media.

Conclusion 

These characteristics are crucial for any travel agent who wants to excel in the competitive travel industry. By embodying the traits mentioned above, travel agents can build strong relationships with clients, provide exceptional service, and, ultimately, create unforgettable travel experiences for their customers. As the travel industry evolves, travel agents must develop and maintain these characteristics to stay ahead and deliver top-notch service to their clients.

Experience the difference when working with the best family travel agents at Sehlmeyer Travel. From all-inclusive resorts to adventure-packed itineraries, we’ve got you covered. Contact us now, and let’s start planning the family vacation of a lifetime.

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6 Characteristics of Successful Travel Agents

Posted by Mia Arderne | Jul 27, 2016 | Tourism and Hospitality | 4 |

6 Characteristics of Successful Travel Agents

Successful travel agents are visionaries with great organisational skills and people skills. Below is a list you can use to check whether you have what it takes to become a successful travel agent:

1 – They are highly organised

Travel agents are great planners. For them, juggling calls, bookings, and communication is an everyday balancing act. Their responsibilities include arranging flights, processing payments, securing accommodation, negotiating deals, sending tickets, and advising clients. Needless to say, travel agents must be able to multitask .

2 – They have vision

Not only do travel agents have to be administrative gurus, they also have to be visionaries. Planning a phenomenal vacation requires an inspired mind. A travel agent should take the time to understand what the client wants from his or her trip and then lay down the foundation for an unforgettable experience. Envisioning your client’s desired experience is integral to planning it well.

3 – They have great people skills

Successful travel agents have excellent communication skills and the ability to inspire and influence people. A big part of the job includes meeting many different, interesting people, which requires versatility. This will mean that your job never becomes monotonous . This also means that you will need a measure of tolerance and the ability to deal with the unrealistic expectations of certain clients. Ultimately, travel agents are talented salespeople, who can find their clients the best value for their money, and do so with enthusiasm.

4 – They are self-starters

The travel agents who really thrive in the industry are self-motivated with lots of drive. As a travel agent, you have the opportunity to become an expert in your field by finding a niche market in which you can provide greater value to a particular client base.

If you want to be an independent travel agent and start your own business, you need to find your niche . A niche can be a smaller market that you’re interested in or have substantial experience in, for example: destination weddings in Greece. As an experienced, independent travel agent, you can take your idea online , offer your own packages, and stand out in a competitive industry. In this environment, you will need to focus on your networking skills and develop a competitive marketing strategy.

5 – They are internet savvy

Travel agents compete with limitless online travel resources and information , so it’s best for them to stay on top of what’s happening online. When you’re working within an agency, most of your clients will already have researched the places they want to visit and will have scoured the travel and accommodation options. Knowing what those places and options are beforehand will immediately give you an edge. If you’re not working for a travel agency, then this is even more important.

As an independent travel agent, you will have to be practiced and adept online, researching travel options, staying abreast of current deals, using social media, networking and promoting yourself consistently, and honing your online presence while staying aware of your competitors in the industry.

6 – They are natural explorers

An innate sense of adventure is vital to this job. Travel agents love to explore the world, both physically and online . With an office job, of course, travel opportunities are limited and affordability is an issue, but travel agents know pretty much immediately when the good deals become available, and they can take full advantage of this knowledge for themselves. Independent travel agents, especially, should try to explore as much of the world as they can. Planning a trip to a place you’ve experienced first-hand will add authenticity and value to your service.

If you see these characteristics in yourself and you think you have what it takes to be a successful travel agent , you might be interested in one of our Tourism and Hospitality courses , which you can complete on a part-time basis from home.  

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Masscv

Great job! Thanks for this useful post.

sowmya

Great Thanks for this useful post.

Chris George

Nice information you posted here in this blog. It is very helpful for me. Thanks for sharing such a knowledgeable post about the characteristics of successful travel agent.

Travel Europe

Thanks for the marvelous posting! I truly enjoyed reading it, you’re a great author.I will be sure to bookmark your blog and will come back later on. I want to encourage yourself to continue your great posts, have a nice morning!

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July 01, 2016

2 minute read

5 Personality Traits of a Successful Travel Advisor

Travel-Agent-Tips.jpg

Are you thinking about becoming a travel advisor ?

Let’s see how many personality traits you share with the most successful advisors!

DEPENDABILITY

To be the best travel advisor you can be, you have to be dependable . That means you’re reliable, you’re punctual, you get your clients the information they need on time and, just as important, you get them the correct information.

To thrive in the travel industry, you have to have a passion for what you do. Not that it’s difficult to fall in love with exotic places around the world, but a travel advisor should also be passionate about learning continuously, always staying educated and up to date on the industry's latest developments, and helping  clients reach their goals to the best of their ability.

INSIGHTFULNESS

You aren’t just selling travel  –  you’re selling experiences. You must have a knack for understanding your customers' needs and desires. You don’t focus on selling them on a trip or a destination they might not enjoy. Rather, you concentrate on your clients’ individuality and help create a unique experience for them that will last for years to come.

RELATIONSHIP BUILDING SKILLS

Any successful travel advisor knows that when you create a happy customer, you not only create a repeat customer, but also a raving referrer . The only way to do this is to have relationship-building chops. You have to know just how to bring the right mixture of genuine advice and professionalism to all your clients, always making them feel special. If you lay the groundwork for a solid relationship, you’ll be booking the same clients for their bachelorette party, their honeymoon, their "babymoon" and every fun  family vacation  thereafter.

AUTHENTICITY

One of the most important traits that you need to have is authenticity. Why? Because a potential client will pick up on anything artificial very quickly. A successful travel advisor doesn’t try to sell something based solely on discounts or promotions – and they don’t sell destinations that they know aren’t good. Remember, your clients are your friends, and you want to give only the best advice to your friends. Be real with your motives and you’ll reap the rewards. Stay true.

Successful travel advisors have this trait by the truckload. They have the drive to learn as much as they can, to promote themselves on social media, to follow up with any leads and to keep in constant communication with their clients before, during and after their trip.

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The Travel Tester

How To Become A Travel Agent: Skills and Qualities Of A Travel Agent That Will Help You Sell Travel Packages

Posted on Last updated: December 14, 2021

When I moved to Australia in 2011, I made a bit of a career move and went from teaching at a primary school to working as a hostel receptionist and travel agent at a small backpackers hostel in Sydney . I loved informing our guests about their travel options and really work with them to make sure they get a holiday experience that they love.

While currently, I am no longer a travel agent, I still help people plan their trips through my blogs and that’s why today, I’d like to share some of my personal top tips on how to become a travel agent and point out the skills and qualities of a good travel agent that will help you perform better in the travel industry.

I will go into strategies to boost your travel sales and get more satisfied customers, as well as bring you useful guides and other tools to help you get the best out of yourself as a travel agent.

Let’s go!

HOW TO BECOME A TRAVEL AGENT – SKILLS OF A TRAVEL AGENT

How To Become A Travel Agent: Skills and Qualities Of A Travel Agent That Will Help You Sell Travel Packages || The Travel Tester

The Travel Tester shared the best travel agent tips and tricks!

Education for Travel Agents

First, let’s start of with some frequently asked questions about the job of a travel agent:

  • Is there a school for travel agents?

Many (home based) travel agents learn on the job, but there are also many schools that offer degree programs and certificates in hospitality & tourism. Here, they often focus on the business side of a travel agency, such as travel agent sales and marketing, pricing, planning itineraries and working with computer systems. There are also classed that teach you about specific destinations around the world, but of course that is best learned on location, so if you have a passion for travel, that is a plus! You can start working in this field right after high school graduation.

Once you get a job in a travel agency, you’re often schooled on the specific computer systems they use to book airlines, hotels and activities.

  • What can I earn as a travel agent?

Travel agents earn a median annual salary of $36,460 (2016). Most people will work via a travel agency, just 15 percent of travel agents are self-employed.

  • What are the duties of travel agent?

A travel agent will book and ticket airfare for both domestic and international travel, as well as selling cruises, tour packages, hotels, etc. They handle all aspects of the booking process including documentation, quality control, deposits, final payments, reviewing itineraries, visas, vaccinations, etc.

When the client is on a trip, the travel agent can help to resolve any issues and emergencies.

  • What are the skills needed for travel agent jobs?

It’s not all about how to sell travel packages in this job! Part of the travel agent skills and qualities are excellent customer service skills and telephone manner, strong communication and sales skills and the ability to prioritize and cope with pressure at busy times.

How To Become A Travel Agent: Skills and Qualities Of A Travel Agent That Will Help You Sell Travel Packages || The Travel Tester

Qualities of a travel agent: strong geography skills!

Getting to Know the Customer

I believe that one of the most important things in selling travel is to get to know the customer as well as you can. The more you can find out about the wishes of the people in front of you (or on the other side of your website/email/phone), the easier it will be to find a product that they will be happy with.

If you don’t know who the person or (group of) people you’re talking to exactly are, it will be really hard to find a product they’re absolutely going to love. So let’s start chatting to them and find out as much as possible. This is one of the best travel agent sales tips I believe out there:

  • What type of traveller are they?

Are they solo travellers looking to meet people? Are they a couple looking for time together? Are they a group looking to hang out?

  • What type of transport do they have in mind?

An organised group tour? A tour with an experienced guide? Do they want to buy or rent their own car? Do they want a flexible hop-on-hop-off bus pass?

  • What type of experience are they after?

Are they lovers of nature and adventure sports? Do they search for beaches, bars & parties? Are they looking to learn something? Do they have any specific cultural interests?

  • What budget do they have?

Are they looking for experiences over budget options? Are they saving on transport/accommodation to do once-in-a-lifetime activities? Do they have any discount/travellers/student/teacher cards?

  • How much time do they have?

Are they looking for day trips? Do they have time for combinations of activities in different locations? Are they in need of a complete tours or train/bus passes within a certain time limit? Can they travel off-peak or do they need to travel in school holidays?

  • What is their level of fitness?

Are they limited in mobility? Are they super fit?…. Don’t let age fool you, I’ve had a 70-years old Scottish guy looking for the best place to do a skydive!

As you can see, there is a lot of information to be gained when you spend a little time chatting to your customers and getting to know them a little better. It’s no problem to write some of their wishes down on paper, especially if you promise them to look some things up for them and contact them later with some ideas.

Once you know your customer as good as you possibly can, it’s time to start giving them some ideas of what they can do with their plans, money and time and to start planning their trip and sell them a travel product. Think about how you would  like to be approached by a travel agent yourself! 

Try to ask as many open questions as possible. These are questions that cannot simply be answered by a ‘yes’ or a ‘no’. Let as much come from the customer self as possible. Don’t put words in their mouths. Ask them to tell about a previous holiday experience they enjoyed, instead of asking them if they like beach holidays.

How To Become A Travel Agent: Skills and Qualities Of A Travel Agent That Will Help You Sell Travel Packages || The Travel Tester

Interested in becoming an international travel agent? Keep reading!

Selling Travel to Groups of People

Selling to a group of people can be a bit more challenging than selling to just one or two people. Especially if they don’t have the same idea about what they want to do! There are many skills needed to be a travel agent selling to groups of people.

With a solo traveller, it’s easy to find out what this person likes. After all, he or she is the only decision maker and doesn’t have to think about another persons wishes or possible limitations. With two or more travellers, you have to be sure that the travel product you sell is to the liking of everyone, not just one of them.

Ask the opinions and ideas of everyone in front of you, not just the person that takes the lead in asking you for information. Of course this isn’t possible when not everyone is there, but you want to get as much information about your customers as possible. Make sure that in the end, everyone is going to be happy, or they will get back to you with complaints – or worse: never come back to you at all!

If the rest of the group doesn’t agree with the chosen tour/activity/accommodation, you’ll have to try and find an alternative that will meet them in the middle somehow, so be sure to know what everyone’s wishes are.

Some things that you should keep in mind when planning a trip for more than one person:

  • Different Budgets

Not everyone in the group might have the same amount of money to spend. See if you can get them any group discounts, free meal and drink vouchers, discounts on accommodation and book them tours that include optional activities, so that everyone can decide for themselves if they want to spend extra money or not.

  • Different Taste For Activities

Just like a budget, people travelling together will have different ideas about what they want to do on a trip. Find (day)trips that include more than one activity, such as a surfing day trip that also includes a BBQ lunch and beach games and find tours with optional activities, like mentioned in the previous point.

  • Different Ages

Especially when you’re planning a trip for groups like families, you will have an age difference that you have to consider. Don’t just think about suitable activities (with different prices for adults, seniors, concessions and children), but also about the facilities at an accommodation you might book for them, like playgrounds, child seats, entertainment, neighbourhood, etc.

There is a great video on YouTube from ‘Trudy & Judy’ that will show you the type of customers you might get in front of you at the travel desk. There is the group booking, the well informed customer, the family vacation, the walk-in customer, the honeymoon couple and the dream customer. Be prepared for everything!

I would definitely recommend watching the video, as it will give you an idea of what to expect – and it’s really quite funny.

How to be a good travel agent? Patience is key!

Developing Travel Agent Skills

Some travel agents work for years with the same customer and develop a great relationship that makes it easier for them to select a product they will love. But even if you work with an ever-changing group of customers, you can use your travel consultant skills and qualities to get a better contact with the customer and help them find a travel product that fits them well.

Wondering how to be a travel agent that keeps on selling? Here are some personal skills travel agent you must develop and that are key to what makes a good travel agent:

  • Build Rapport

This is definitely one of the most important travel agent qualities. Because, if the customer doesn’t like you personally or thinks you’re just there to take their money, they won’t buy anything. It’s as simple as that. They will listen to you, but then take the product and buy it somewhere else, probably. If customers know you’re there to help them and that you take the time to listen and understand their travel plans, they will be far more likely to book anything, and they probably come back to you for more information as well. Let the customer know you would like to hear how their trip went, to share their experience and photos on your companies Facebook Page / Website, etc.

  • Make the trip insightful

The customer needs to be able to picture themselves in the chosen destination. They need to feel the sand on their feet, the sun in their face and the wind in their hairs. Explain exactly the kind of experience they can have and use photo’s, video’s, stories from other customers or your own experience to do that.

  • Know the product you’re selling

If you’re wondering how to be the best travel agent, then I’d say: Nothing is more easy than selling a travel product you’ve tried and are excited about yourself. And I don’t mean that in a vacuum-selling-kind of way  ( ‘I have the same one at home!’ ). Take every chance you get to familiarize yourself with the travel products you sell. Write down customer experiences, go to travel shows/expo’s, so-called ‘ famils ’ (product tests, usually on invitation), product training and social events. Ask questions to the representatives of the company and let them know you’re interested in getting to know the product even better. Keep those business cards and don’t forget to hand out your own.

  • Don’t pretend to know it all

In times when customers have easy access to the internet and know so much about destinations and products, it’s almost impossible to know the answer to all of their questions. They don’t expect you to know it either, so whenever there is something you don’t know for sure, call someone who does, or explain to the customer that you’ll look it up for them and get back to them. It’s better to check something than to pretend you know the answer and to give false information to your customer! They will find out. This is one of the skills of travel agents that you might not have thought about, I’m sure!

  • Be clear and repeat yourself

Especially with customers that don’t speak the language of the country you’re in very well, it is very important that you are clear to the customer and that they understand what they book. But this counts for everyone you sell a product to, of course. Make sure the customer leaves with a clear view on things such as: pick up time and location, what to bring, what to pay on arrival, extra (hidden) costs, etc. Print them a checklist (usually comes with the product you sell) and get that marker pen out! Let them sign what you sold them, so there’s no mistake in what they booked and what the policy from the company is (about cancellations, etc.). Patience is definitely one of the more important travel agent skills needed. 

For those of you who really want to get into the travel industry, and maybe even pick up some good slang words, make sure you check out the  Travel Industry Dictionary , another one of those skills for travel agents that you must train yourself in!

Hopefully these tips on how to be travel agent brought you one step further your dream job and helped you learn how to be a better travel agent! As you can see, it is very important to have an interest in the customer and using your product knowledge to make a trip insightful to them. Chances are you’ll find it much easier to sell a travel product now!

How To Become A Travel Agent: Skills and Qualities Of A Travel Agent That Will Help You Sell Travel Packages || The Travel Tester

Become a Travel Consultant: Courses

One of my favourite platforms to learn online is called Creative Live and while they don’t have a course on how to be a great travel agent or how to become a travel agency, they do have some courses that are related to selling travel and might help you out:

How To Become A Travel Agent: Skills and Qualities Of A Travel Agent That Will Help You Sell Travel Packages || The Travel Tester

  • >> Find out more on CreativeLive.com >>

Video Tips for Travel Agents

I hope this article helped you explaining what skills do you need to be a travel agent and even how to become a successful travel agent in the long run. Here are some handy travel agent videos on YouTube with more tips on how to become a travel agent and how to improve travel agent business for your agency:

Top 5 Reasons to Become a Travel Agent by LaTanya Ellison

Holly A’Court from Northcote College is going to check out what it takes to be a travel consultant and learns how to start a travel agency and what travel consultant skills you need to succeed in the job.

Tips on how to get started as a travel agent by Samantha (she also has a 6 month and 2 year update video on her work as a travel agent)

Juliana talks about her experience using Angel List to get a remote job as a travel agent

Find out what it takes to be a Travel Agent and how to get started

Amanda is a Disney Travel Planner and tells you all about becoming a travel agent

Do you have more tips on how to be the best travel agent? Let us know in the comment section below!

Thursday 26th of November 2020

Great Article! Your article is really helpful. I am glad to read this awesome article and I will go to this place in my holidays. Thanks for shairng such a helpful post.

Rudraksh Group

Friday 20th of November 2020

It is great blog post. I am Always read your blog. Helpful and Informative blog. Thanks for sharing these information with us.

Tuesday 26th of November 2019

I love the idea of being a travel agent, and I think it's such an interesting field. I do wonder how it's evolving though -- seems like the realm of the really rich now that most people can plan trips using the internet fairly easily. I like that you include "build rapport" because it's such a people focused profession.

Saloni Rampal

Tuesday 25th of September 2018

A travel agent who has been to that place before can give more personal touch to the travelers.

Odysseus Solutions

Thursday 6th of September 2018

All these tips are very useful and can help you but at the end of it, you have to be a passionate and very energetic to do your work as a travel agent and also provide good service to your client which can help you to develop as a travel agent in the travel industry.

7 Traits of Successful Travel Agents

Plain and simple – the travel industry is not for the faint of heart. The role requires you to tap into both sides of your brain – creative & logical – in order to recommend, book and managed stellar travel experiences for your clients. You also wear multiple hats on a daily basis: sales pro, marketer, accountant and customer service rep. If you have what it takes, then the travel industry is one of the most exhilarating and rewarding jobs around! You get to both know and sell what you love…and the FAM trips are pretty awesome too! Whether you’re ready to grow as a business and hire another employee, or just looking to improve personally as a consultant, these are the characteristics that separate highly successful travel agents from the good ones.

Travelers who book through a travel consultant instead of booking a trip on their own are seeking out expertise. This means that you need to turn yourself into an information black hole and soak up everything there is to know about airlines, airports, destinations, dining, and accommodations. You can accomplish this by reading travel articles and publications to stay current. Don’t be afraid to ask your suppliers questions about the products that you’re promoting and selling.

Professionalism

It is essential that you set high expectations for yourself and your employees. Check the spelling on emails and quotes. PUt efficient processes into place for making and managing bookings instead of just making calls on the fly. Consider implementing, or following, a professional dress code to help you feel at the top of your game. This applies even if you work from home! The age-old saying that the difference is in the details couldn’t ring truer than with the travel industry.

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Enthusiasm defines a successful travel agent

Did you know that enthusiasm is contagious? Well, it really is! Stay excited about what your selling and your clients will catch on. Be that insane person who flat out loves Mondays! Keep your standards high and your goals ahead of you. Make sure to save plenty of time throughout your year for your own travel adventures. This will keep your excited, passionate, and engaged with what you do.

People Skills

Do you excel at picking up subtle communication cues? Can you unravel what a client really wants when they’re having a difficult time clearly expressing it? Do you know how and when to close a sale? Some of these skills come naturally, but much is learned by simply paying attention. It is essential that you become a student of human nature even when you’re not on the job and you will start to develop a sound ability to read people.

Integrity is key for a successful travel agent

Honesty and integrity are two qualities that are impossible to replace once they’re lost. That being said, be honest and upfront about fares, rules, and regulations. Steer clear of selling something you don’t think your client will love. Always take the high road. Recommendations and referrals are the best forms of advertising. However, they will not come about if you don’t maintain a high sense of integrity.

Resourcefulness

A successful travel agent has the ability to think on the fly and adapt to new situations. Whether we’re talking about a forced schedule change, an absurd request, or a missed connection, quick thinking is a must! Learn to maintain a calm presence and navigate emergencies like a pro. Figure out what resources you have at your disposal and make it work. If done correctly, your clients will think that you’re a miracle worker!

Empathy is a hallmark of a successful travel agent

Travel arrangements can go sideways fast even when you do all the right things throughout the booking process. Airlines are delayed, bags get lost, and clients get sick…things happen! Just because an incident is not your fault, doesn’t mean that you show zero compassion. Be your client’s advocate whenever you possibly can. Use your experience to take up their cause with airlines and travel insurance underwriters. If there is truly nothing that you can do, offer your best suggestions and your genuine empathy. Be a listening ear and make them feel both heard and understood.

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Travel Agent

Travel agents sell transportation, lodging, and admission to entertainment activities to individuals and groups planning trips. They offer advice on destinations, plan trip itineraries, and make travel arrangements for clients.

Travel agents typically do the following:

  • Arrange travel for business and vacation clients
  • Determine clients’ needs and preferences, such as schedules and costs
  • Plan and arrange tour packages, excursions, and day trips
  • Find fare and schedule information
  • Calculate total travel costs
  • Book reservations for travel, hotels, rental cars, and special events, such as tours and excursions
  • Describe trips to clients and advise about local customs and attractions 
  • Give details on required documents, such as passports and visas, and on complying with cross-border entry requirements, such as health and safety protocols
  • Make alternative booking arrangements if changes arise before or during the trip

Travel agents sort through vast amounts of information to find and arrange the best trip options for travelers. In addition, resorts and specialty groups use travel agents to promote vacation packages to their clients.

Travel agents may visit destinations to get firsthand experience so that they can make recommendations to clients. They visit hotels, resorts, and restaurants to evaluate the comfort, cleanliness, and quality of establishments. Self-employed travel agents may have additional responsibilities related to running their business, such as recordkeeping, managing staff, and marketing. However, travel agents most of their time talking with clients, promoting tours, and contacting airlines and hotels to make travel accommodations.

The following are examples of types of travel agents:

Leisure travel agents  sell vacation packages to the public. They are responsible for arranging trip itineraries based on clients’ interests and budget. Leisure travel agents often focus on a specific geographic area or type of travel, such as adventure tours. Some cater to a specific group, such as students or single people.

Corporate travel agents , also called travel coordinators, primarily make travel arrangements for businesses. They book transportation and accommodations for an organization’s employees who are traveling to conduct business or attend conferences.

Travel agents held about 46,200 jobs in 2021. The largest employers of travel agents were as follows:

Travel agents typically spend much of their day sitting, working on the phone and on the computer. Agents may face stress during travel emergencies or unanticipated schedule changes.

Work Schedules

Most travel agents work full time, although part-time work is common. Some work additional hours during peak travel times or when they must accommodate clients’ schedule changes and last-minute needs.

A high school diploma typically is required to become a travel agent. However, employers may prefer to hire candidates who have sales experience or relevant certification or education. Communication and customer service skills are essential.

Travel agents typically need at least a high school diploma to enter the occupation, but employers may prefer to hire candidates who have a college degree or who have taken courses related to the travel industry.

Community colleges, vocational schools, and industry associations may offer technical training, certificates, or continuing education in professional travel planning. In addition, some 4-year colleges offer degrees in travel and tourism. Courses usually focus on reservations systems, marketing, and regulations regarding international travel.

Employers in the travel industry typically provide on-the-job training that lasts at least 1 month. This training covers topics such as how to operate computer systems that are used in the industry. For example, a travel agent could be trained to work with a reservation system used by several airlines.

Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations

High school graduates with limited experience may demonstrate competence by taking the Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) test. The test has no eligibility requirements, but study and preparation may be required. The test is administered by  The Travel Institute .

The Travel Institute also provides training and professional credentials for travel agents at three different experience levels. These credentialing programs are the Certified Travel Associate (CTA), Certified Travel Counselor (CTC), and Certified Travel Industry Executive (CTIE). To maintain the credential, each program requires continuing education annually.

The  American Society of Travel Advisors  (ASTA) offers credentialing and educational programs for those seeking to become a travel agent. ASTA offers the Verified Travel Advisor (VTA) program and the ASTA Roadmap to Becoming a Travel Advisor.

The  Cruise Lines International Association  (CLIA) offers four levels of certification: Certified (CCC), Accredited (ACC), Master (MCC), and Elite Cruise Counselor (ECC). Each level requires a certain amount of training and product knowledge.

Some states require travel agents to have a business license, to register with the state, or to meet other conditions. Requirements vary by state. Contact individual state licensing agencies for more information.

Other Experience

Some agencies prefer to hire travel agents who have extensive traveling experience. These agencies especially prefer travel agents who focus on particular destinations or types of travelers, such as groups with a special interest or corporate travelers. Agencies also may prefer to hire travel agents who have sales experience.

Travel agents typically have an interest in the Persuading and Organizing interest areas, according to the Holland Code framework. The Persuading interest area indicates a focus on influencing, motivating, and selling to other people. The Organizing interest area indicates a focus on working with information and processes to keep things arranged in orderly systems.

If you are not sure whether you have a Persuading or Organizing interest which might fit with a career as a travel agent, you can take a career test to measure your interests.

Travel agents should also possess the following specific qualities:

Adventurousness. Travel agencies that specialize in exotic destinations or particular types of travel, such as adventure travel or ecotourism, may prefer to hire travel agents who share these interests.

Communication skills. Travel agents must listen to customers, understand their travel needs, and offer appropriate travel advice and information.

Customer-service skills. When customers need to make last-minute changes in their travel arrangements, travel agents must be able to respond to questions and complaints in a friendly and professional manner.

Detail oriented . Travel agents must pay attention to details in order to ensure that the reservations they make match travelers’ needs. They must make reservations at the correct dates, times, and locations to meet travelers’ schedules. 

Organizational skill s. Travel agents should have strong organizational skills because they often work on itineraries for many customers at once. Keeping client information in order and ensuring that bills and receipts are processed in a timely manner is essential.

Sales sk ills. Travel agents must be able to persuade clients to buy transportation, lodging, or tours. Sometimes they might need to persuade tour operators, airline staff, or others to take care of their clients’ special needs. Earnings for many travel agents depend on commissions and service fees.

The median annual wage for travel agents was $43,810 in May 2021. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $28,280, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $74,220.

In May 2021, the median annual wages for travel agents in the top industries in which they worked were as follows:

These wage data include money earned from commissions. Earnings for many travel agents depend on commissions and service fees.

Employment of travel agents is projected to grow 20 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations.

About 7,500 openings for travel agents are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire. 

Much of the projected employment growth in this occupation is due to recovery from the COVID-19 recession of 2020 and is likely to occur early in the projections decade.

Demand is expected to increase for travel agents’ specialized skills in giving clients a personalized travel experience through their recommendations, advice, and ability to handle travel issues. As people continue to resume travel, they are expected to look to travel agents for advice on popular or unique travel destinations and experiences.

However, the ability of travelers to use online resources to research vacations and book their own trips may limit demand for travel agents.

For more information about training opportunities and optional certificates, visit

American Society of Travel Agents

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA)

The Travel Institute

Where does this information come from?

The career information above is taken from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook . This excellent resource for occupational data is published by the U.S. Department of Labor every two years. Truity periodically updates our site with information from the BLS database.

I would like to cite this page for a report. Who is the author?

There is no published author for this page. Please use citation guidelines for webpages without an author available. 

I think I have found an error or inaccurate information on this page. Who should I contact?

This information is taken directly from the Occupational Outlook Handbook published by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. Truity does not editorialize the information, including changing information that our readers believe is inaccurate, because we consider the BLS to be the authority on occupational information. However, if you would like to correct a typo or other technical error, you can reach us at [email protected] .

I am not sure if this career is right for me. How can I decide?

There are many excellent tools available that will allow you to measure your interests, profile your personality, and match these traits with appropriate careers. On this site, you can take the Career Personality Profiler assessment, the Holland Code assessment, or the Photo Career Quiz .

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The Attributes Of A Great Travel Agent

The Attributes Of A Great Travel Agent

When Insight Vacations invited TMR editor Cheryl Rosen to its gala dinner honoring its top-selling agents, we couldn’t resist asking the attendees just what it is they do that makes them so successful.

We started with Insight U.S.A. president Phil Cappelli, who noted that this is the company’s “having our best year ever, up 18%, with 94% of our business coming through travel agents. And that’s something I never would have expected 10 years ago!”

On what makes these 20 so special, Cappelli said, “They are all committed, hard-working and passionate about travel – and that comes from a natural desire to share their travel experiences with guests and get them excited. Most of these agents have traveled with us on at least four or five trips, on Insight Vacations or on our luxury Insight Gold, and have come back with a really good understanding of the product. Plus they have the ability to understand their customers, so they can put them in the right product.”

Most of the crowd was made up of Baby Boomers, but one agent is just 28 years old. “She has incredible passion; she has traveled most of the world; and she gets people so passionate that they just throw business at her.”

The 20 top travel agents offered up the following explanations of what makes them so successful:

Diane from Milwaukee: “I always put myself in the client’s shoes, dot all the i’s and cross all the t’s, and make sure every detail is taken care of. We all basically can book the same things; it’s the service level that brings clients back. I don’t just book the trip and take their money. So many people use Trip Advisor, but I try to use professional reports and valid references. We offer optional tours; we give them a Travel 42 report about their hotel with all the points of interest. I anticipate things because I have been in the business for so long. A client will say, ‘I want to snorkel in Cabo,’ and I’ll say, ‘Why would you go to cabo to snorkel?’ The client doesn’t know what he doesn’t know, but I have years of experience.”

Colleen from NJ: “What makes a good agent are good organizational skills and good follow-up. You have to take care of any little problems so they don’t occur again. I call every single client; sometimes I just leave a message to welcome them home and say I’d love for them to give me a call. Something there is some little thing that went wrong but they are upset; that call opens the dialogue. And I make it very clear which days I’m in and which days I’m off; I want to handle every call from my customers myself.”

Michael from CA: “Good agents are well traveled, and only sell what they would buy themselves. Sometimes I’ll hand-pick a cabin or a hotel room if I have stayed there. Leave no loose ends and pay attention to every little request, and remember the sale is not closed until they arrive home. And when they do get home, I ask how the trip was, how was the hotel and the tour director? Did the pace of the tour fit your expectation? I don’t push them to buy another trip at that point; if you have done it right, they will come back.”

Traci from Nashville: “I’d say the most important thing is experience. You need to sell your own experiences to the customer – but you need to experience the experience for yourself before you can begin to customize it specifically for the customer. In qualifying them I ask what they want to see, what’s most important to them, and then I match them and customize their trip to make it a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

Sandy from Wisconsin: “The way to build your clientele is to always be in touch, to have touchpoints throughout the process. You have to hold their hand. I’ll call three or four days before they travel and ask if they have any last-minute questions, and I’ll call three or four days after they get back to ask what they thought of the trip, what were the excursions they went on and how was the hotel and the tour guide. If they have anything negative to say, I want to know it and take it back to my DM right away. And I always say thank you for booking with me, and please let me know if I can help with a future booking, or if you have any friends or family who might be interested in my services.”

Laurie from Michigan: “I think it’s knowing what the client’s wants and needs are. You want to make every vacation memorable. It’s a hard business; it’s important to stay in touch. I try to be focused and attentive, and I keep in contact by phone and by email, maybe send a card with a note if I see something they might enjoy. And I try to contact them when they come back from a trip, or when I come back from one, to share my experiences.”

Judy from NJ: “It’s about being a good listener to their dreams and expectations, so you can make their trip extra special.”

Susan from Ocala, FL: “Listen to your client, make it personal, and use suppliers you trust.”

Dana from Houston: “Listen. Listen to what the clients say they want from the very beginning of the conversation. And then meet their criteria.”

travel agents personal characteristics

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7 Characteristics of a Successful Travel Agent

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Do you have what it takes?

The travel industry is not for the faint of heart. You must daily tap into both sides of your brain — your creative side and your logical side — in order to recommend, book, and manage incredible travel experiences for your clients. You are a salesperson, a marketer, an accountant, and a customer service rep all wrapped into one! If you have what it takes, it is one of the most exciting and rewarding jobs you can find! You get to know and sell what you love (and the FAM trips are pretty great too)!

Whether you are ready to grow your business by hiring another employee, or just looking to improve yourself as an agent, these are the characteristics that separate the outstanding travel agents from the good ones!

1. Knowledge

When travelers choose to use a travel agent instead of booking a trip themselves, they are looking for expertise . Turn yourself into an information sponge and soak up everything there is to know about airlines, airports, destinations, dining, and accommodations. Read travel articles and publications to stay current. Don’t be afraid to ask your suppliers questions about the products you are buying.

2. Professionalism

Set high expectations of professionalism for yourself and your employees. Check the spelling on your emails and quotes. Put efficient processes in place for making and managing bookings rather than just “winging it” as you go. Consider implementing or following a personal dress code to help you feel at the top of your game — even if you work from home !

3. Enthusiasm

Enthusiasm is contagious. Stay excited about what you sell and your clients will catch on. Be that crazy person that loves Mondays . Keep your standards high and your goals ahead of you. Make sure to save plenty of time in your year for your own travels. This will keep you excited and passionate about what you do!

4. People Skills

Are you able to pick up on subtle communication cues? Can you figure out what a client really wants when they’re having a hard time expressing it clearly? Do you know how and when to close the sale ? Some of these things come naturally, but much of it is learned simply by paying attention. Become a student of human nature even when you are not on the job and you will start to develop a keen ability to read people.

5. Integrity

Be honest and upfront about fares, rules and regulations. Don’t try to sell something you don’t think your travelers would love. Take the high road. Referrals and recommendations are your best form of advertising, but they simply won’t happen if you don’t maintain the highest standards of integrity.

6. Resourcefulness

A great travel agent has the ability to think on their feet and adapt to new situations. Whether it’s a forced a schedule change, an unusual request, or a missed connection, quick-thinking is essential. Learn to stay calm and navigate emergencies like a pro. Figure out what resources you have at your disposal and make it happen! Your clients will think you are a miracle-worker!

Even when you do all the right things in the booking process, travel arrangements can often go awry. Airlines are delayed, bags get lost, and travelers can get sick. Just because an incident is not your fault, doesn’t mean you show no compassion. Be your client’s advocate whenever you can. Use your experience to take up their cause with airlines and travel insurance underwriters. If there is truly nothing you can do, offer your best suggestions and your genuine empathy. Be a listening ear and make them feel heard and understood .

Do you agree? What qualities would you say make a successful travel agent?

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Shawna Levet

Shawna is passionate about helping travel agents grow their business and expand their knowledge as travel experts. She has been in the travel industry since 2011, helping agents and travelers alike find the best negotiated airfare and travel coverage to meet their needs.

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Five personality traits of a travel consultant

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travel agents personal characteristics

Being paid to travel the world and share your impressions of the people and places that you encounter is considered by many to be a dream job.

Current employment trends point to a preference for careers that allow people to travel. In that way, the travel and tourism industry is an attractive option. Travel consultants are responsible for arranging transportation, booking accommodations, tours and entertainment for travellers. Consultants may specialize in a specific field – some may focus on leisure and individual travellers, some specialize in group travel while others serve business clients.

The role of the travel consultant is many-faceted and requires a unique set of skills. On a typical day, travel agents may be involved in one or more of these activities: assessing the travel needs of clients and offering advice, booking air tickets for domestic and international travel, creating travel itineraries and assisting with visa applications, negotiating with hotels and service providers for agreeable rates, handling documentation and collecting payments from clients.

In order to be successful in these types of roles, candidates should have a particular set of characteristics. Find out if you what you need to do to thrive in the travel industry.

Develop your communication skills

travel agents personal characteristics

Travel consultants need to enjoy working with people and have a strong customer focus. Happy customers leads to repeat business and positive word of mouth. Therefore, the goal of the travel consultant is to build relationships with customers and be able to deliver what they want in the way that they want it. The ability to listen to clients and identify their needs is a valuable skill.

Be organised and detail-oriented

Being a travel consultant is a juggling act. On any given day, consultants may be creating an itinerary for guests traveling to Asia, making hotel bookings for customers going to Europe or taking care of guests who just landed in Africa. Good organisational skills are vital. Travel consultants need to be great planners and pay attention to details in order to ensure that each customers’ trip goes smoothly.

Have a strong sales focus

Travel consultants need to be driven. In order to capture new business, it is important to follow up with potential leads and keep in contact with regular clients to ensure you are top of mind for any new enquiries. It is common for travellers to shop around before they buy, so in order to close the sale, the travel consultant must have a competitive edge and be able to do whatever it takes to impress the client.

Think out of the box

The tourism industry is not just about selling flights or hotels. It is about selling experiences. Travel consultants need to be creative in order to give customers travel itineraries that go above and beyond their expectations. Being able to get that coveted table at a fully booked restaurant or having access to sold out concerts are great tools for a travel consultant to have up their sleeve.

Become a destination specialist

travel agents personal characteristics

A travel consultant who knows their destinations is much more convincing than one that does not. Customers want to get the most out of their travel and rely on their travel consultant to offer professional advice and personal insights that will help them get the most out of their time and money. Knowing which hotel offers the best service and which airlines have the best safety record is valuable. Therefore, travel consultants need to have a passion for travel and an eagerness to try new things so they can give first-hand advice to customers.

If you think you have the characteristics of a travel consultant, check out these opportunities and more on TD Jobs :

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If you are looking for a travel consultant or have other travel industry positions available, create your listing now .

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  • Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software Skills
  • Language Proficiency
  • Travel Product Upselling
  • Financial Transactions and Currency Exchange Handling

Top Soft Skills for Travel Agents

Empowering travel agents with empathy, adaptability, and a keen eye for detail to deliver exceptional, personalized customer experiences.

  • Empathy and Emotional Intelligence
  • Communication and Active Listening
  • Adaptability and Flexibility
  • Problem-Solving and Decision Making
  • Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity

Networking and Relationship Building

  • Time Management and Organizational Skills
  • Salesmanship and Persuasion
  • Attention to Detail and Accuracy

Most Important Travel Agent Skills in 2024

Personalized customer service, global travel knowledge, marketing and sales acumen, attention to detail, crisis management and flexibility, cultural intelligence and sensitivity, showcase the right skills in your resume.

travel agents personal characteristics

Travel Agent Skills by Experience Level

Important skills for entry-level travel agents, important skills for mid-level travel agents, important skills for senior travel agents, most underrated skills for travel agents, 1. cultural intelligence, 2. active listening, 3. crisis management, how to demonstrate your skills as a travel agent in 2024.

travel agents personal characteristics

Turn Your Skills into Career Opportunities

How you can upskill as a travel agent.

  • Acquire Advanced Travel Industry Certifications: Pursue specialized certifications such as the Certified Travel Associate (CTA) or Certified Travel Counselor (CTC) to deepen your knowledge and demonstrate your commitment to the profession.
  • Embrace Technology and Automation Tools: Learn to use the latest travel booking software, CRM systems, and automation tools to streamline operations and offer personalized travel experiences.
  • Expand Destination Knowledge: Regularly research and familiarize yourself with new destinations, travel regulations, and cultural insights to provide up-to-date advice to clients.
  • Develop Language Skills: Enhance your communication abilities by learning new languages, which can help you cater to a broader client base and build rapport with international partners.
  • Participate in Familiarization Trips: Take advantage of fam trips to experience destinations firsthand, allowing you to provide authentic recommendations and build a portfolio of personal travel experiences.
  • Engage in Sustainable Travel Practices: Educate yourself on eco-friendly travel options and responsible tourism practices to guide clients towards more sustainable travel choices.
  • Network with Industry Professionals: Join travel industry associations, attend trade shows, and connect with fellow Travel Agents to exchange knowledge and stay informed about industry developments.
  • Master Customer Service Excellence: Attend workshops or take courses on advanced customer service techniques to enhance client satisfaction and loyalty.
  • Stay Informed on Global Events: Keep abreast of world events, travel advisories, and health and safety protocols to provide timely and accurate information to travelers.
  • Focus on Niche Market Specialization: Specialize in niche markets such as luxury travel, adventure tourism, or wellness retreats to differentiate yourself and cater to specific client interests.

Skill FAQs for Travel Agents

What are the emerging skills for travel agents today, how can travel agents effectivley develop their soft skills, how important is technical expertise for travel agents.

Travel Agent Education

travel agents personal characteristics

More Skills for Related Roles

Creating memorable guest experiences, driving service excellence in the hospitality sector

Driving customer satisfaction, resolving issues with empathy and efficiency

Fostering customer loyalty and business growth through personalized relationship management

Driving customer satisfaction and loyalty through proactive relationship management

Ensuring passenger safety and comfort, creating memorable travel experiences

Crafting unforgettable journeys, tailoring travel experiences to individual desires

Start Your Travel Agent Career with Teal

Job Description Keywords for Resumes

10 Characteristics of an A-List Travel Agent

June 05, 2014

- Posted by Stephen Chapek

These days, with so much travel information and booking sites available online, it’s easy to think there might not be a reason to use a travel agent anymore. And for majority of simple, low cost trips, that might be the case.

But when you need to plan an elaborate itinerary, like a multi-country family vacation, using a travel agent is a good idea! A good travel agent can save luxury travelers thousands on a high ticket trip, because they have access to special rates and discounts that you as the traveling public doesn’t have.

Plus if you go with an expert in the region you are traveling to, they may also be able to get you special rates and exclusive access to local properties and events that might normally be out of reach.

10 Characteristics of a 5-Star Travel Agent

1. an air travel genius.

The best travel agents have contacts on the inside of major airlines and even private charter companies. If you’re booking tickets to hard-to-reach places, or even major tourist destinations, a travel agent will be able to wrangle discounts most website-based services can’t match.

2. An Accommodations All-Pro

Just like airfares, there are so many different travel and hotel websites nowadays, you’re bound to find a great discount if you look hard enough.

For lower end properties, you usually can do pretty good on your own. But for more luxurious hotels, popular destinations, especially during a peak season, getting discounts on your own could prove impossible.

With an excellent travel agent on your side, you can get the same accommodations for much less. You could even get upgraded, or merit some nice complementary extras thrown in.

3. A Reservation Magician

When an event is sold out to the public, a good travel agent will know who to contact to get seats or reservations that have been set aside for VIPs.

Having the right travel agent on your side can turn your trip into a VIP experience simply by granting you access to things most people wouldn’t have a chance to attend.

The best travel agents can usually work this kind of magic, pulling reservations out of the hat for sold out shows, over-booked 5-Star restaurants, and amenities usually reserved for special guests.

4. A Local Know-It-All

If you’re taking a cruise or flying to a luxury resort, you’ll usually have immediate access to the same attractions and resources all the other guests have.

The difference, however, in a good vacation and an amazing vacation is in the extra excursions. A great travel agent will have an inside track to local attractions and tour guides that can take you places off of the normal tourist map.

The best travel agents have spent years building relationships and learning the secrets of the locals in the best vacation destinations in the world. Having someone who’s invested in this type of knowledge is only going to make your vacation that much more exciting.

5. A Destination Specialist

When you’re traveling to a new city, or one you don’t know very well, a 5-star travel agent will be your best friend. Cities are confusing and tourist attractions are setup to get as much money from tourists as possible.

Simply staying in a hotel or resort a few miles away from popular destinations can save you a lot of money, make transportation easier, and even give you extra privacy.

A great travel agent will not only be able to provide a tailor-made itinerary for you, they’ll be able to match your desired vacation exactly.

6. An Emergency Wizard

Sometimes, vacations and travel plans can be absolutely destroyed because of unforeseen circumstances. When weather or mechanical problems ground your aircraft, a travel agent will go to work for you getting you another mode of transportation to get to your destination.

For a traveler having to worry about finding and booking another flight, fighting with vendors for refunds, and all the fun that goes along with it, it’s a ruined vacation for sure. Being able to make one phone call to your Travel Emergency Wizard and letting them handle it is comforting and very much worth it.

7. A Logistical Mastermind

One travel agent story I heard about concerned writer who wanted to book a direct flight from Amsterdam to Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. He did find a direct flight, but it was too expensive for him.

The other alternative involved multiple transfers in different countries and extended layovers. Instead of putting up with all that hassle, he made a call to his super-duper travel agent and she handled it for him, getting him a steep discount to boot.

When there are too many connections and time-checks, a great travel agent will work it all out and give you an itinerary that gets you where you want to go. There’s no need to stress about it when you have a 5-Star Agent in your side.

8. A Frequent Flier Super Hero

Here’s yet another way an experienced travel agent can help you. Even though frequent flyers can rack up a lot of miles, with all of the restrictions and black outs, they can be hard to use!

Travel agents, because of the access they have to the specialized reservations services, and their relationships with the airlines, have a bag of tricks they you don’t have. Some agencies actually specialize in using frequent flyer miles.

They can often upgrade coach fares to business class when the passenger isn’t able to upgrade. They can turn your frequent flyer miles into something good, like a first class ticket to Asia, say, when you can’t.

9. Is a Contacts Collecting  Grand-Master

When you go with a pro, because of their extensive connections and experience, they can often get much better deals and service then you could possible do.

For example, if you’re trying to get a hotel room in New York on Super Bowl weekend at the last minute. For most people, that might be the end of the story, but with a super agent they might be able to get the hotel to release a special reserve of rooms for your party.

But even when you don’t need them to work a miracle, they can still get great everyday upgrades, usually at no cost to you, like a better room, champagne service, perhaps getting some special attention from the general manager.

10. A Personal Service Champion

Because of their extensive experience over many years, super agents can often do better for you than even the concierge at the hotel you’re staying at.  

Top hotels want to get business from top agents as they can steer hundreds of valuable clients to a particular hotel or location during the year, so they’ll give the agent’s clients a better deal then they would their own.

A good example is getting connecting or adjacent rooms at a busy hotel when you have a large group or family. This is often very hard to arrange. But with the right agent and the right circumstance, you may end up getting your wish!

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  • Travel Consultant Qualifications

Top 10 Skills and Qualities Required for Travel Consultant

Introduction of a Career in Tourism

Nothing is easier than selling a product you yourself have already tried and are excited about. Take every chance to familiarize yourself with what goes on in the tourism industry. For, setting up a career in tourism, you should be passionate about it. There are many choices of where will you end up as ultimately. This includes becoming a Travel Agent, likely, a Travel Consultant, Hotel Manager, Spa Manager, Tour Operator, Event and Conference Organizer, Tour Guide, Executive Chef, Sommelier, etc. This article, further, will also tell you about how to become travel agents.

Eligibility or Education required for a Travel Agent

The first and the foremost thing in consideration to get into the Travel Consultant business is getting yourself educated in this field. You may get a travel agent course. Travel agencies prefer well-learned employees over the formally non-educated ones when it comes to landing a good job. After a travel agent course, you also get training in the field of work from the school you graduate or the travel agent course and this is helpful to know more about the work you will be doing after. An associates or bachelors degree in this course goes a long way in setting up the platform. This all thus makes you eligible for getting travel agent jobs as well as other travel and tourism jobs.

A career in tourism is fine but to thrive in the travel industry, you have to have a passion for what you do. Not that it’s difficult to fall in love with the exotic places around the world, but a travel consultant should also be passionate of learning continuously, always staying educated and up to date on the industry's latest developments, and helping clients reach their goals to the best of their ability. The top 10 skills and qualities required for a travel agent should be mastered before starting a career in tourism.

Skills and Courses required for the Travel Agent

1. Excellent Communication Skills

From conducting research interviews with the client’s employees to managing the team and stakeholders, writing business proposals and delivering presentations, effective communication is highly important in consulting work. So often projects break down or stagnate because of a lack of effective communication. Being a strong communicator will set you apart from the rest and will quickly gain you such a reputation. A career in tourism thus requires good or great communication skills as customers from other nationality also come in the role while you will be working.

 2. Should be Highly Organized in the Work You Do

Travel Consultants are great planners. The skills and qualities required for travel agents are juggling calls, bookings and communication is an everyday balancing act for them. Their responsibilities include arranging flights, processing payments, securing accommodation, negotiating deals, sending tickets and advising clients. Needless to Travel Consultants must be able to multitask and thus being highly organized is one good vice every Travel Consultant must build.

 3. Having other Technical Skills

 Technical skills for a travel agent are important. Keep a tab on what goes on in the   IT section and also work towards getting knowledgeable about the other IT skills themselves.

   4. Getting Proper Education in that Field.    

Get yourself formally educated about the field that you will be entering into. This helps in loads of ways for getting clear with the work that you will be undertaking, having know-how about what type of work it will and other matters. Formal education in this thus goes a long way in preparing you for the industry and is an essential thing you should have.

  5. Good Decision Making

It can be quite daunting having to assert yourself when you are new to the job or organisation. But showing conviction and commitment to your own ideas, as well as the ability to follow through, is highly important in consultancy. Of course, confidence comes with experience, so it is vital to be just as an effective listener. Learn from your peers and offer to support them in realising their ideas if you believe in them and that it will produce great results for the project. Doing exactly what you say you will do sounds obvious, but is essential for building trust and credibility in your team. These are some great tips for travel agents.

6. Ability to Listen

This is one quality every travel consultant should definitely harbour. Many a time, customers come with great enthusiasm and tell all they want to visit and have fun about where they will be going on the vacation to. If you as a travel agent do not listen carefully, it is surely about to make some problems and this will be a bad thing for your career. Take care and do garner a good ability to listen.

7. Good Attention to Detail

If you are that type who skimps over details, you are not capable for the job of a travel agent. Just forget it. As a travel agent, you will surely and incessantly be dealing with name spellings, passport numbers, birth dates, travel dates and many more things. If you do not pay attention to the detail, it will be a disastrous situation for your customer in some cases. So, take care and make sure your attention to details is brilliant.

8. Good Persuading Skills

This quality is a must for selling what you are offering your customer. Persuade them to spend more and that a little more expensive package which is sure to give them the whole luxury of the trip or the vacation they have chosen and are going to soon. Good persuading skills go a long way in making good money for your business. Do not forget to set the charm though.

9. Good Administration Skills

Administration skills are a great thing for one working as a Travel Agent. This makes a good person out of you. Your customers will be attracted towards you and you will have good relationships with those you served.

10. Being Internet Savvy

Being Internet savvy is the best quality skill a travel agent must obtain. Indulge and get yourself in travel agent jobs. This helps him in going a long way about getting the whole picture of what goes around in the industry, what packages are available, how he can make them better and even more. There are limitless online resources and information available on travel and the related topics. Having knowledge about all is a great writ and thus will lead you in getting more packages delivered to the right customer that sought your service. These are the skills and qualities required for a travel agent.

Responsibilities or Job Role of the Travel Agent

  • Getting To Know The Customer

One of the most important things in selling travel is to get to know the customer as well as you can. The more you can find about the wishes of the customer and what he needs, the better you will have the way to serve him the desired product. If you do not know the person who you are talking to and what they exactly are, the harder will it be for you to make them happy. It will be really hard for you to deliver them the product they will absolutely love. A great tip is to try asking more question and get the answers out of them that way. So, get to know the customer and his side of the story, even more, so that what you deliver him will really be bought and will go a long way on making him happy. So, a career in tourism does demand all this from you as doing travel agent jobs and other work.

Moreover, write down customer experiences, go to travel shows, expos, product training and social events. Ask more questions to the company representatives and let them know you are interested in getting to know the product even better. Keep those business cards and don't forget to hand out your own.

Scope or Career Growth as the Travel Agent

Travel and tourism jobs help to get you more experience in the field that you will be entering and making a career out of. What goes on in the market, fresh news, new deals and more so about new technologies do become and keeping tabs on these is a must for any Agent. Never should you leave this ever-changing world of opportunities. What goes around does come around and making money isn't as easy to work. Sell more packages, make more deals for the customers you are handling and have good knowledge of what goes on in the market. All this will lead on and will surely go a long way in making you a good, reliable Travel Agent.

Selling travel to a group of people is a little bit more challenging than other work of any Travel Consultant. In some cases, they do not have the same idea of what they want to do! There are thus many skills needed for a travel consultant while on such a work. When this group ends up at your travel desk, you should leave no chance and go on with your charm in bagging that vacation package off for them. Be prepared for anything as they may have different budgets and or different tastes and rounding off will be a little bit of a task. The last point is if you lose here, they are never coming back for you and this will be a big blow for your career as the travel agent.

At Travind Institute of Travel and Tourism , g et oneself trained by industry experts and professionals.We at Travind provide top Travel and Tourism courses with complete practical knowledge applicable in the Industry today. You can opt for our Institute Courses after 12th or Graduation. We also take care of the top skills and qualities required for a travel consultant.

16 Jan, 2019 By admin . Posted In Travel , Career . Tagged Practical Education In Tourism , travel and tourism career , Career after 12th , travel and tourism courses .

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What does a Travel Agent do?

Travel agents help plan, choose, and organize travel schedules. Generally, they ensure that clients can efficiently process their travel plans and get the best travel experience possible. Primarily, they assist individuals, groups, and business travelers in booking their flights and hotel accommodations, buying tickets to events, and arranging their transport from one place to the other. They also provide recommendations for itineraries and offer travel packages from different airlines, hotels, or cruise lines. Travel agents can work as freelancers or mostly be employed by travel agencies.

  • Responsibilities
  • Skills And Traits
  • Comparisions
  • Types of Travel Agent

Resume

Travel agent responsibilities

Here are examples of responsibilities from real travel agent resumes:

  • Manage corporate travel arrangements for business accounts, including passport and visa documents.
  • Book hotel reservations; recommend and cross sell hotel rooms for availability within the Marriott brand of hotels and resorts.
  • Service inbound calls using Sabre system by setting itineraries and booking new reservations, also including billing reversals or accommodations.
  • Create PDFs prior to being send to print vendors and edit sell sheets for product introduction mailings.
  • Assist all travelers with acquiring passport, passport renewals, and visa requirements on any international travel itineraries.
  • Create scripts to help agents process long driven formats in Worldspan, Sabre, and Amadeus for quickness and accuracy.
  • Coordinate travel arrangements for business and leisure travel clients; operate Apollo computer system
  • Book transient reservations, upselling whenever possible to maximize revenue per company policy.
  • Assist other travel agencies and customers in preparing reservations, upselling at every opportunity.
  • Book car, hotel, Amtrak.
  • SABRE bookings of air, car, hotel and Amtrak.
  • Accompany groups as an Onsite air agent.
  • Arrange travel for several VIP's at various accounts.
  • Obtain visas, passports and work permits as required by country.
  • Book VIP services such as transfers, meet and greet and private jets.

Travel agent skills and personality traits

We calculated that 30 % of Travel Agents are proficient in Reservations , Booking , and AAA . They’re also known for soft skills such as Customer-service skills , Detail oriented , and Sales skills .

We break down the percentage of Travel Agents that have these skills listed on their resume here:

Communicated all confirmed reservations and itineraries to clients by email, including basic country/destination and airport information that enabled smooth travel.

Performed travel agent duties providing a prestige customer experience in booking tours internationally and domestically for a fast paced tour company.

Assist AAA Members in all areas of travel including airline tickets, vacation packages, cruises, tours and independent travel.

Managed computerized bookings and reservations, corporate and private account management, credit card authorizations, billing, and discrepancy resolutions.

Well-organized, accurate and detail oriented; planned and organized travel itineraries.

Use computerized reservation system to process payments, book transportation and hotel reservations and print required documentation for customer.

"reservations," "booking," and "aaa" are among the most common skills that travel agents use at work. You can find even more travel agent responsibilities below, including:

  • Customer-service skills. To carry out their duties, the most important skill for a travel agent to have is customer-service skills. Their role and responsibilities require that "travel agents must be able to interact with clients and respond to questions and complaints in a friendly, professional manner." Travel agents often use customer-service skills in their day-to-day job, as shown by this real resume: "support customers with building new travel reservations/modifying and changing existing travel reservations. "
  • Detail oriented. Many travel agent duties rely on detail oriented. "travel agents must ensure that the reservations they make are for the dates, times, and locations that match travelers’ schedules.," so a travel agent will need this skill often in their role. This resume example is just one of many ways travel agent responsibilities rely on detail oriented: "coordinated leisure itineraries for european, domestic, caribbean and cruise vacations; produced detailed itinerary booklets outlining all trips. "
  • Sales skills. Another skill that relates to the job responsibilities of travel agents is sales skills. This skill is critical to many everyday travel agent duties, as "travel agents must be able to persuade clients to buy transportation, lodging, or tours." This example from a resume shows how this skill is used: "promote sales of travel to clients and potential clients book travel take payments over the phone, email, and mail. "
  • Communication skills. A big part of what travel agents do relies on "communication skills." You can see how essential it is to travel agent responsibilities because "travel agents must listen to clients’ travel needs and offer travel advice and information that meet those needs." Here's an example of how this skill is used from a resume that represents typical travel agent tasks: "maintained a working knowledge of internet travel offerings and utilize all internet communication tools book travel. "
  • Organizational skills. A commonly-found skill in travel agent job descriptions, "organizational skills" is essential to what travel agents do. Travel agent responsibilities rely on this skill because "travel agents often work on itineraries for many clients at once." You can also see how travel agent duties rely on organizational skills in this resume example: "experienced travel agent working with business travel for company and organizational events, including office support and team management. "

Most common travel agent skills

The three companies that hire the most travel agents are:

  • Volt Systems LLC 64 travel agents jobs
  • Auto Club Speedway 40 travel agents jobs
  • AAA AUTO 38 travel agents jobs

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Travel agent vs. cruise counselor.

A Corporate Travel Counselor prepares ground travel, hotel, rail travel, and air transport arrangements for customers. They keep accessible online materials to ensure conformity with the client's travel policy. Besides interacting with travel managers, travelers, and travel arrangers, corporate travel counselors also read, master, and expound international pricing procedures and rules. Other duties performed by corporate travel counselors include recommending travelers of various international travel requirements such as immunizations, visas, passports, and more. Also, these professionals deal with different client issues and handle technical issues.

If we compare the average travel agent annual salary with that of a cruise counselor, we find that cruise counselors typically earn a $6,107 higher salary than travel agents make annually.

While the two careers have a salary gap, they share some of the same responsibilities. Employees in both travel agent and cruise counselor positions are skilled in reservations, booking, and credit card.

These skill sets are where the common ground ends though. The responsibilities of a travel agent are more likely to require skills like "aaa," "excellent computer," "travel itineraries," and "reservation system." On the other hand, a job as a cruise counselor requires skills like "customer service," "customer calls," "travel arrangements," and "sales strategies." As you can see, what employees do in each career varies considerably.

Cruise counselors tend to reach similar levels of education than travel agents. In fact, cruise counselors are 0.5% less likely to graduate with a Master's Degree and 0.3% less likely to have a Doctoral Degree.

Travel agent vs. Corporate travel counselor

As corporate travel agents, they primarily work to coordinate all travel-related concerns such, reservation, flight cancellations, itinerary adjustments, and other unanticipated circumstances happen. They work in travel agencies or departments handling personnel travel details. It is part of their tasks to search and negotiate the lowest possible rates for group business trips. They often work full time in an office setting, but some prefer to work remotely since much of their time is spent on the computer and phones. Moreover, they also gave recommendations concerning weather conditions, local norms, and sightseeing attractions.

On average, corporate travel counselors earn a $25,157 higher salary than travel agents a year.

While the salary may differ for these jobs, they share a few skills needed to perform their duties. Based on resume data, both travel agents and corporate travel counselors have skills such as "reservations," "booking," and "reservation system. "

While some skills are similar in these professions, other skills aren't so similar. For example, resumes show us that travel agent responsibilities requires skills like "aaa," "credit card," "excellent computer," and "travel itineraries." But a corporate travel counselor might use other skills in their typical duties, such as, "customer service," "travel policy," "sabre gds," and "schedule changes."

Average education levels between the two professions vary. Corporate travel counselors tend to reach similar levels of education than travel agents. In fact, they're 0.0% less likely to graduate with a Master's Degree and 0.3% less likely to earn a Doctoral Degree.

Travel agent vs. Corporate travel consultant

An average corporate travel consultant eans a higher salary compared to the average salary of travel agents. The difference in salaries amounts to corporate travel consultants earning a $17,606 higher average salary than travel agents.

Travel agents and corporate travel consultants both have job responsibilities that require similar skill sets. These similarities include skills such as "reservations," "booking," and "travel itineraries," but they differ when it comes to other required skills.

The required skills of the two careers differ considerably. For example, travel agents are more likely to have skills like "aaa," "credit card," "excellent computer," and "travel products." But a corporate travel consultant is more likely to have skills like "customer service," "excellent client," "onsite," and "rental cars."

Most corporate travel consultants achieve a similar degree level compared to travel agents. For example, they're 0.9% less likely to graduate with a Master's Degree, and 0.1% less likely to earn a Doctoral Degree.

Travel agent vs. Auto travel counselor

Auto travel counselors tend to earn a higher pay than travel agents by an average of $32,704 per year.

While their salaries may vary, travel agents and auto travel counselors both use similar skills to perform their duties. Resumes from both professions include skills like "reservations," "aaa," and "hotel reservations. "

Even though a few skill sets overlap between travel agents and auto travel counselors, there are some differences that are important to note. For one, a travel agent might have more use for skills like "booking," "credit card," "excellent computer," and "travel itineraries." Meanwhile, some responsibilities of auto travel counselors require skills like "customer service," "pos," "travel packages," and "foreign currency. "

The average resume of auto travel counselors showed that they earn similar levels of education compared to travel agents. So much so that theyacirc;euro;trade;re 1.0% less likely to earn a Master's Degree and less likely to earn a Doctoral Degree by 0.3%.

Types of travel agent

  • Travel Consultant

How To Become a Travel Consultant

  • Travel Coordinator

How To Become a Travel Coordinator

  • Travel Counselor

How To Become a Travel Counselor

  • Corporate Travel Agent
  • Corporate Travel Consultant

How To Become a Corporate Travel Consultant

Updated February 16, 2024

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

What a Travel Agent Does FAQs

Can travel agents work from home, search for travel agent jobs, what similar roles do.

  • What an Agent Does
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Travel Agent Related Careers

  • Auto Travel Counselor
  • Corporate Travel Counselor
  • Corporate Travel Expert
  • Cruise Counselor
  • Senior Travel Consultant
  • Travel Manager
  • Travel Service Consultant
  • Travel Specialist

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travel agents personal characteristics

What It Takes To Be a Successful Travel Agent

  • June 9, 2022

Do you love to travel and find yourself not only planning all your own trips but the trips of all of your friends and family too? Do you think you’ve got what it takes to become a successful travel agent?

Could it be summed up as:

  • Must love long walks on the beach. 
  • Must love puppies and elephants and a sense of adventure. 
  • Must love red wine, medium-rare steak and evenings in front of a cozy fire listening to Ed Sheeran 

WAIT, I thought I was writing my online dating profile requests there for a second – 

🐿  My mind can so easily wander (spoken like a true travel industry professional). Let’s get back on track.

No, this article is not about online dating but rather about the nine traits that every good travel consultant should possess to succeed in this industry. If you don’t have them all, it’s okay. You can fake it ‘til you make it. (oops, and just like that, I’m back to that online dating profile again 🤦‍♀️ KIDDING)

 1. A travel agent must be highly intelligent

I’m sure I’ll get a hell yeah on this one from anyone in the industry reading this. I don’t know how many times I’ve told friends and family that I am an Asia travel specialist, yet without fail, I’m often asked, ” Hey, what’s the cost of a flight to Cuba these days?” (sigh) 

It’s similar to when you tell someone you are Canadian, and they then ask you if you know their 2nd cousin Bob who lives four provinces away. Just because I’m a travel professional does not mean I know the depth of the Tonga Trench or the mating patterns of Galapagos turtles. I get asked crap like this all the time.  

A nervous mother once asked me how far her 12-year-old son could walk into the ocean before he went under. I said, “no, I can’t tell you that. Wait, how tall is your son?” She said, “4”9.” 

“Ahhhhhhhhhhhh,”  I said. “Still, no.” 

Yes, travel consultants do know a lot of stuff. And if they’ve correctly defined their niche, they probably could kick some ass in a friendly game of Trivial Pursuit as long as the category is BLUE.  When it comes to your niche topics, there will be an expectation that you are highly intelligent.

2. A travel agent must be detail-oriented

Before you worry about this too much, there are so many tools available to help you check and double-check your work, so don’t stress if this isn’t your strong suit. It’s not mine. But every good travel advisor I’ve ever met has impressive attention to detail. There are so many moving parts to any travel itinerary that being detail-oriented is a must. From checking dates in triplicate to ensuring flights arrive and depart with enough time in-between. One letter wrong in a client’s passport name and “hello, hefty change fees!”

I would often remind my team — “ Relax, after all, we aren’t curing cancer,” but you can’t tell that to the person who travels across the globe, hours on a plane, only to find that all 12 rooms at the ultra-exclusive Giraffe Manor are booked. And he’s not on the guest list. 😳

Yes, to work in the travel industry, the devil is in the details.

3. A travel agent must be maternal and have a touch of clairvoyance

No, I’m not suggesting you need to drive a minivan. But a good travel professional has to think of everything. You need to anticipate crap happening before crap happens. And it’s going to happen. Not only do you need to expect it, but you better have a plan A, B and C on hand for when it does. 

Being a travel advisor isn’t that dissimilar to sending your kids off to school…” Billy, do you have your gloves, your scarf, your mittens, your lunch, your homework? Did you get your visa for China?” If you are good at what you do, and of course you are, at times, it will seem as though your clients have sent their brains off on vacation a few months before their departure date. They’ll look to you for everything, and like a good boy-scout, you’ll need to be prepared.

Pre-departure checklists can come in handy. Clients will appreciate these.

Pro Tip: Departure time 00:21 messes up at least one travelling party every year. Be sure you make it clear what date your clients should be heading to the airport, so they don’t miss their flight. You might laugh, but I’m tellin’ ya…every year someone invariably shows up a day late and a dollar short.

For chuckles, here are some of the questions I’ve received over the years…

“ What do you think they’ll serve at the buffet at the hotel?” (I always say bacon unless they are travelling to a Muslim country because bacon is a sure-fire favourite on any buffet but honestly, really? – how the F should I know?)

Or the client who booked Mont Blanc six months in advance and asked…” Do you think July 19th will be better weather-wise or do you think July 26th would be a better date?” Ahhhh…I’m not the Farmers’ Almanac. What do you think?

Then, one of my all-time favourites, “ What time does the sun come up in Australia?” Ummmm…huh?

4. A travel agent must be able to juggle fire swords while smiling

Sure, I know that all the experts say it’s impossible to multitask. Those experts have yet to meet a real travel consultant. A successful travel professional will have dual, maybe even triple screens up and running at all times. We’ll be on hold with an airline listening to the brassy-edge of Kenny G’s saxophone while Googling weather patterns in the Sahara and writing welcome-home postcards all at the same time.

When I used to hire travel sales experts, I always looked for people who considered themselves highly organized. If you are not, before long, you’ll be in the weeds. That’s how we describe having one too many balls in the air and knowing they are about to drop.

5. A travel agent must be crafty problem solver

Getting an angry text message or email at three in the morning is not something anybody wants, but it can happen. (see trait #2)  You’ll need to be a puzzle solver. There are so many moving cogs to travel that somewhere at some time, someone along the way will have an off-day and slip up. A calamity will ensue.. Your job is not to panic. Stay calm and understand that everything is figure-out-able. 

When that happens, it’s understandable that your client is upset. I’ve had profanities and obscenities hurled my way over the years. I don’t take it personally. There is always a solution, but sometimes it might require you to be creative. Whatever it takes. 

Marie Forleo came out with a New York Times Bestselling book on the topic that I highly recommend — “ Everything is Figureoutable .” It’s a great read for all aspects of your entrepreneurial life. 

Marie-Forleo-on-being-a-travel-agent

6. A travel agent must be empathetic

I often think every good travel consultant should have a velvety chartreuse chaise lounge in her office. At times, you’ll find yourself playing the role of Dear Abby as you listen to your clients’ waffle over the meaning of life and what they should pack. 

And because selling comes down to the Know, Like, and Trust factor, asking probing questions is the key to establishing great relationships.  You’ll want to unravel their likes and dislikes, what brings them joy, what freaks them out, are they adventurous spirits or beach slugs? Are they introverts or extroverts or a mix of the two? These are all great questions.

And listening to Mildred complain about Roy’s hernia and how he’ll need to pack an extra cushion and painkillers to endure the long flight — these are all just part of “A Day in the life.”

7. Let’s not forget, a travel agent must be long on patience

Holy hell, ain’t this the truth. Knowing when to step in and knowing when to lay low and just wait — is an art form. Sometimes it doesn’t pay to be too efficient. Sometimes, the best plan of action is to do nothing because clients will often change their minds from A to B to C to D and then back to A.

 I get it. Booking a holiday that for many, may happen only once a year, there is a fear of getting it wrong. And while it is absolutely your job to put their minds at ease and help them feel confident in their choices, they will still change their mind just because they can. Don’t fall for the trap. Patience, grasshopper. And this too shall pass.

8. And a travel agent must be extremely resourceful

There is no playbook for selling travel. The most successful agents in the industry are the ones who know how to manoeuvre around obstacles to get the most for their clients. A good travel agent knows when to push and not take no for an answer. And they will seek out who the general manager is in each hotel and contact them in advance to advise they have VIP guests coming who need upgrades. It’s ringing up the hotel’s concierge and having him secure a table at the swankiest Michelin-starred hotel in the neighbourhood.

what makes a travel agent special

Tom Marchant, co-founder of the ultra-elite luxury travel brand Black Tomato, says that no request is too big for his company to consider. They’ve hidden diamond rings inside ice caves in Iceland for a dream wedding proposal. They’ve hired Hollywood cinematographers to film a family’s jolly around the Indonesian islands at the cost of US$665,000. They just roll up their sleeves and figure out how to exceed their clients’ expectations.

9. Most of all, a travel agent must know how to laugh

Above all else, if you don’t have a sense of humour, it’s going to be tough. You might muddle through, but it’s so much easier when you can put things in perspective and realize you gotta laugh. In fact, if you can make like a duck and allow the water to roll off your back…that will be a good thing.

Actually, now that I think of it, this could also be a great list of admirable traits to look for on an online dating profile. 🤔

So tell me…how’d you do? Does this sound like the best career ever? If you think you are ready to dig a little deeper, I highly recommend reading the following posts next:

Best Advice for Getting Started in the Travel Industry

Top Travel Agents Share Their Best Advice for Starting Out in the Travel Industry

Revealing Your Secret Sauce, Unlocking Your Hidden Talents

Choosing the Right Travel Path

And, if you are interested in learning how you can work with me to help you get you off on the right foot, click here to sign up for a consultation.

Diane

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  • Getting Started as a Travel Agent , Mindset , Sales Tips for Travel Agents
  • 13 Comments

travel agents personal characteristics

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guest

This is a great read…. thank you for sharing…

Diane

That’s great to hear. I’m glad you liked it.

Amelia

You are spot on in every aspect!

Ahhh, well yes my friend, you definitely exhibit them all.

Jenny

Thanks for the laughs! You made it an entertaining read!

I love to hear that…thank you!

Bunmieshealthychoices

Really nice post!! I have a lot of work to do on my self ☺️ I enjoyed reading and learnt a lot! Thanks for sharing!

Thank you for your feedback. I think we ALL have a lot of work to do on ourselves but it’s all part of the journey.

Britt

What a funny guide! And informative. You definitely exude the sense of humor part. 🙂

You are too kind Britt. Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment. That means a lot.

Steve Perkins

Fantastic article! I’d like to think I have many (if not all) of these traits 🙂

YES! That’s why it was a no-brainer to hire you Steve. I’d made my decision within the first 10 minutes.

Moira

You do Stevie Wonder!

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Talking Travel: How To Infuse Your Travel Agent Website with Personality

Updated November 29, 2023

Picture this: You open a travel agent's website, and from the moment you start reading, you're captivated by the words that transport you to far-off places, stirring your desire to venture out to new destinations.

You feel an instant connection, like you've found the perfect travel partner.

What makes that happen? It's the magic of brand personality infused into their travel website copy!

For travel professionals, having a standout website is essential. But what truly sets apart a remarkable travel agency website is its brand personality - the soul, the vibe, the character that shines through its marketing copy.

Brand personality is more than just colors and logos. It's the unique voice that sets you apart from the crowd. It's the magnetic messaging that makes your travel agency website a dynamic online destination that's completely unique.

Understanding your brand personality

So, what exactly is a brand personality?

In a nutshell, it's the unique set of traits and characteristics that define your travel agency's identity. Think of it as human characteristics that are unique to your brand.

If you're a single-agent travel agency, your travel agency brand personality may be very similar to your own. But understanding your travel agency brand personality becomes even more critical if you have more than one travel advisor in your agency.

That brand personality helps customers and potential clients feel they know what to expect. Those unifying characteristics are part of what determines how your agents interact with clients, the words that are used on your website and in emails, and even the way your agents conduct themselves when they're representing the agency.

Have you ever visited Chick-fil-a and noticed that everyone you encounter says "My pleasure!"? It's never "You're welcome," "No problem," or "Absolutely!". It's always, without fail, “My pleasure.”

Those words are part of their company brand personality. They demonstrate a service-first mentality, which permeates the company. They're so crucial that every employee learns to say them automatically, no matter where they're from or what job they do.

Think about what characteristics are part of your travel agency brand personality. For instance, are you a luxurious, high-end travel agent catering to a once-on-a-lifetime dream trip? Or are you a budget-friendly, adventure-packed travel agency specializing in adrenaline-inducing vacation packages and an off-the-beaten-path experience?

Knowing your brand personality lets you reflect these characteristics into your copy, making your travel agency marketing more personalized.

No matter what your brand personality is, embrace it fully. It's the foundation of your magnetic messaging.

Using brand personality in your travel agent website copy

Now that you've spent time thinking about your brand personality, it's time to work magic with your words.

You don't need to turn your travel agent website into a verbose Shakespearean play. It's not about the number of words you use. It's about thoughtfully choosing the right words, tone, and storytelling elements that align with your brand.

For instance, a luxury travel brand could use polished, sophisticated language and create vivid imagery of premium experiences and a luxury travel style. A budget travel company could use exciting, dynamic language filled with action and adventure.

Aim for a language style that mirrors your agency's essence - whether it's elegant and refined or approachable and friendly.

Once you've decided on the style that reflects your brand personality, it's time to sprinkle in a dash of storytelling.

As humans, our brains are wired for stories. They make your travel copywriting more engaging, relatable, and persuasive.

Storytelling has a fantastic ability to whisk readers away on an adventure, and that's precisely what you want to do on your website. Paint vivid pictures of exotic destinations and amazing travel experiences, include short stories from past travelers, and ignite a spark of wanderlust.

Emotions and your brand

All buying decisions are usually made based on emotions. We don't rationalize ourselves into making most purchases. Instead, we make an emotional decision and then justify to ourselves why the decision was reasonable.

This is especially true in the travel industry. A vacation is never truly a need, it's always something we want, and that's tied directly to our emotions. Infusing your copy with emotions that align with your brand helps you create an emotional bond with your audience that lasts beyond a single website visit.

A high-end brand can convey luxury, exclusivity, and sophistication, triggering feelings of desire and aspiration. A budget travel agency can evoke excitement, spontaneity, and an unforgettable experience, resonating with a budget-conscious thrill-seeker.

Think about the emotions you want your website visitors to associate with your agency. Do you want them to feel excitement, relaxation, or a sense of wonder? Whatever it is, tap into those emotions through evocative language, captivating photos, and relatable stories.

Stirring those emotions will help make your travel agency memorable and keep clients coming back for more.

Consistency is key

Consistent messaging is reassuring to a potential customer and helps them remember your brand. It's the glue that holds your brand personality together.

In order for your brand personality to resonate with your audience, it needs to be consistent across all potential touchpoints. That includes your website copy, web design, social media, emails, and more. Consistency builds trust and helps clients recognize your brand instantly, even in a crowded online world.

Brand personality and your ideal clients

Now that you understand your brand personality, think about who your ideal client is and what they're looking for.

> If you're not sure who your ideal client is, start here

Would your ideal client and your brand be friends? Is there anything about your brand's personality that would drive your ideal client crazy? Anything they'd love?

If your ideal client and your brand personality would get along like two peas in a pod, you've struck gold! That's exactly what you want. Your ideal client should meet your brand personality and feel like they've found someone they didn't even know they were looking for.

But suppose your brand personality and ideal client would have difficulty getting along in real life. In that case, you'll struggle to attract your ideal client to your brand. You'll need to look closer at your ideal client avatar and brand personality to see what changes will help them get along.

The bottom line

Now that you understand your brand personality, it's time to whip up some magnetic marketing copy.

Keep the language and tone in sync with your brand personality and target audience. Let your brand personality shine through every interaction, from the words on your website homepage to booking confirmations you send to your clients.

Let it reflect in the words you use, the photos you choose, and every little detail on your website. Stand out, mesmerize, and win clients - that's the power of brand personality!

Do you need to figure out who your ideal client is and how to find them? Use our client avatar worksheet to get crystal clear on who you want to work with.

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Career profile Travel Agent

Also known as Auto Travel Counselor, Beach Expert, Corporate Travel Consultant, Destination Specialist, International Travel Consultant, Tour Coordinator, Tour Counselor, Travel Agent, Travel Consultant, Travel Counselor

Travel Agent

Also known as Auto Travel Counselor, Beach Expert, Corporate Travel Consultant

  • Enterprising
  • Conventional
  • Active Listening
  • Service Orientation
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Customer and Personal Service
  • Sales and Marketing
  • Collect payment for transportation and accommodations from customer.
  • Plan, describe, arrange, and sell itinerary tour packages and promotional travel incentives offered by various travel carriers.
  • Converse with customer to determine destination, mode of transportation, travel dates, financial considerations, and accommodations required.

Table of Contents

What does a travel agent do.

  • What is a typical salary for a Travel Agent?
  • Career Interests

Psychological Demands

  • Typical educational degrees
  • Required knowledge and expertise
  • Important abilities
  • Critical skills

Is Travel Agent the right career path for you?

Would Travel Agent be a good fit for you?

Explore how your personality fits with Travel Agent and hundreds of other career paths.

Travel Agents plan and sell transportation and accommodations for customers.

  • determine destination, modes of transportation, travel dates, costs, and accommodations required,
  • may also describe, plan, and arrange itineraries and sell tour packages,
  • may assist in resolving clients' travel problems.

What kind of tasks does a Travel Agent perform regularly?

Travel Agents are often responsible for overseeing or executing some or all of the following tasks:

  • Compute cost of travel and accommodations, using calculator, computer, carrier tariff books, and hotel rate books, or quote package tour's costs.
  • Record and maintain information on clients, vendors, and travel packages.
  • Book transportation and hotel reservations, using computer or telephone.
  • Print or request transportation carrier tickets, using computer printer system or system link to travel carrier.
  • Provide customer with brochures and publications containing travel information, such as local customs, points of interest, or foreign country regulations.

The above responsibilities are specific to Travel Agents. More generally, Travel Agents are involved in several broader types of activities:

What is a Travel Agent salary?

The median salary for a Travel Agent is $42,350, and the average salary is $46,650. Both the median and average roughly describe the middle of the Travel Agent salary range, but the average is more easily affected by extremely high or low salaries.

Many Travel Agents earn significantly more or less than the average, due to several factors. About 10% of Travel Agents earn less than $25,230 per year, 25% earn less than $32,010, 75% earn less than $56,520, and 90% earn less than $73,360.

Between the years of 2020 and 2030, the number of Travel Agents is expected to change by 5.5%, and there should be roughly 7,500 open positions for Travel Agents every year.

What personality traits are common among Travel Agents?

Career interests describe a person's preferences for different types of working environments and activities. When a person's interest match the demands of an occupation, people are usually more engaged and satisfied in that role.

Compared to most occupations, those who work as a Travel Agent are usually higher in their Enterprising and Conventional interests.

Travel Agents typically have very strong Enterprising interests. Enterprising occupations frequently involve starting up and carrying out projects. These occupations can involve leading people and making many decisions. Sometimes they require risk taking and often deal with business.

Also, Travel Agents typically have strong Conventional interests. Conventional occupations frequently involve following set procedures and routines. These occupations can include working with data and details more than with ideas. Usually there is a clear line of authority to follow.

People differ in their values , or what is most important to them for building job satisfaction and fulfillment.

Compared to most people, those working as a Travel Agent tend to value Relationships , Achievement , and Recognition .

Most importantly, Travel Agents moderately value Relationships . Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to provide service to others and work with co-workers in a friendly non-competitive environment.

Second, Travel Agents moderately value Achievement . Occupations that satisfy this work value are results oriented and allow employees to use their strongest abilities, giving them a feeling of accomplishment.

Lastly, Travel Agents moderately value Recognition . Occupations that satisfy this work value offer advancement, potential for leadership, and are often considered prestigious.

Each occupation brings its own set of psychological demands , which describe the characteristics necessary to perform the job well.

In order to perform their job successfully, people who work as Travel Agents must consistently demonstrate qualities such as attention to detail , integrity , and dependability .

Below, you'll find a list of qualities typically required of Travel Agents, ranked by importance:

What education and training do Travel Agents need?

Travel Agents often have training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.

Travel Agents usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with this occupation.

Educational degrees among Travel Agents

  • 3.1% did not complete high school or secondary school
  • 19.4% completed high school or secondary school
  • 27.3% completed some college coursework
  • 11.6% earned a Associate's degree
  • 31.3% earned a Bachelor's degree
  • 5.9% earned a Master's degree
  • 1.4% earned a doctorate or professional degree

Knowledge and expertise required by Travel Agents

Travel Agents may benefit from understanding of specialized subject areas, such as customer and personal service , sales and marketing , or geography knowledge.

The list below shows several areas in which most Travel Agents might want to build proficiency, ranked by importance.

Important Abilities needed by Travel Agents

Travel Agents must develop a particular set of abilities to perform their job well. Abilities are individual capacities that influence a person's information processing, sensory perception, motor coordination, and physical strength or endurance. Individuals may naturally have certain abilities without explicit training, but most abilities can be sharpened somewhat through practice.

For example, Travel Agents need abilities such as speech recognition , oral comprehension , and speech clarity in order to perform their job at a high level. The list below shows several important abilities for Travel Agents, ranked by their relative importance.

Critical Skills needed by Travel Agents

Skills are developed capacities that enable people to function effectively in real-world settings. Unlike abilities, skills are typically easier to build through practice and experience. Skills influence effectiveness in areas such as learning, working with others, design, troubleshooting, and more.

Travel Agents frequently use skills like active listening , service orientation , and reading comprehension to perform their job effectively. The list below shows several critical skills for Travel Agents, ranked by their relative importance.

What is the source of this information?

The information provided on this page is adapted from data and descriptions published by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration under the CC BY 4.0 license. TraitLab has modified some information for ease of use and reading, and the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment, and Training Administration has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.

If you have any questions or suggestions about this information, please send a message .

IMAGES

  1. Travel Agent Job Description: Salary, Skills, & More

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  2. 6 Characteristics of Successful Travel Agents

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  3. How to Be a Travel Agent: A Comprehensive Guide

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  4. 20 Exclusive Benefits of Being a Successful, Skilled Travel Agent

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  5. Easy Steps to Become a Travel Agent

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  6. Types of travel agents

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COMMENTS

  1. What personality traits do travel agents have?

    The top personality traits of travel agents are extraversion and social responsibility. Travel agents score highly on extraversion, meaning that they rely on external stimuli to be happy, such as people or exciting surroundings. They also tend to be high on the measure of social responsibility, indicating that they desire fair outcomes and have ...

  2. 8 Characteristics a Successful Travel Agent Should Have

    Becoming a travel agent is a career path many people dream of, and with the right characteristics, it can be successful. The travel industry is constantly evolving, and it takes a specific type of person to thrive in this field. In this article, we will discuss the characteristics that make a successful travel agent. Passion for Travel One of the most essential characteristics of a travel ...

  3. 8 Key Travel Agent Skills (With Tips for Using Them)

    Examples of basic travel agent skills. Travel agents can use various skills depending on their specific duties, but most travel agents have these basic skills to be successful: 1. Customer service. Travel agents often are the first point of contact for customers who plan a business trip, vacation or other types of travel.

  4. What Personality is suited for a Travel Agent

    The Big 5 personality traits that are commonly found in successful travel agents include openness, extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, and emotional stability. Openness is necessary for a travel agent to be able to adapt to different cultures and environments.

  5. Discover the 7 Key Characteristics of Leading Travel Agents

    In this article, we will explore the seven characteristics of a successful travel agent. 1. Strong Communication Skills. Travel agents must communicate effectively with clients to understand their needs and preferences. They must also be able to provide clear and concise information about travel destinations, accommodations, and activities.

  6. 6 Characteristics of Successful Travel Agents

    1 - They are highly organised. Travel agents are great planners. For them, juggling calls, bookings, and communication is an everyday balancing act. Their responsibilities include arranging flights, processing payments, securing accommodation, negotiating deals, sending tickets, and advising clients. Needless to say, travel agents must be ...

  7. 5 Personality Traits of a Successful Travel Advisor

    A successful travel advisor doesn't try to sell something based solely on discounts or promotions - and they don't sell destinations that they know aren't good. Remember, your clients are your friends, and you want to give only the best advice to your friends. Be real with your motives and you'll reap the rewards. Stay true.

  8. The Seven Traits of a Successful Travel Agent

    7 Personality Traits of Great Travel Agents. 1. Dependable. This trait actually encompasses several helpful human traits, such as being reliable, punctual (getting you information in a timely manner, being detail oriented) and for that matter being accurate- getting you the correct information. 2.

  9. How To Become A Travel Agent: Skills and Qualities

    Here are some personal skills travel agent you must develop and that are key to what makes a good travel agent: Build Rapport; This is definitely one of the most important travel agent qualities. Because, if the customer doesn't like you personally or thinks you're just there to take their money, they won't buy anything. It's as simple ...

  10. 7 Traits of Successful Travel Agents

    Whether you're ready to grow as a business and hire another employee, or just looking to improve personally as a consultant, these are the characteristics that separate highly successful travel agents from the good ones. Knowledge. Travelers who book through a travel consultant instead of booking a trip on their own are seeking out expertise ...

  11. Travel Agent Career Profile

    Pay. The median annual wage for travel agents was $43,810 in May 2021. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $28,280, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $74,220.

  12. The Attributes Of A Great Travel Agent

    The 20 top travel agents offered up the following explanations of what makes them so successful: Diane from Milwaukee: "I always put myself in the client's shoes, dot all the i's and cross ...

  13. 7 Characteristics of a Successful Travel Agent

    5. Integrity. Be honest and upfront about fares, rules and regulations. Don't try to sell something you don't think your travelers would love. Take the high road. Referrals and recommendations are your best form of advertising, but they simply won't happen if you don't maintain the highest standards of integrity. 6.

  14. Five personality traits of a travel consultant

    Develop your communication skills. Travel consultants need to enjoy working with people and have a strong customer focus. Happy customers leads to repeat business and positive word of mouth ...

  15. Top Skills for Travel Agents in 2024 (+Most Underrated Skills)

    Networking and relationship building remain crucial skills for Travel Agents as we move into 2024. Establishing strong connections with suppliers, tour operators, and hospitality professionals can lead to better deals, exclusive offers, and insider knowledge that benefits clients.

  16. 10 Characteristics of an A-List Travel Agent

    10 Characteristics of a 5-Star Travel Agent. 1. An Air Travel Genius. The best travel agents have contacts on the inside of major airlines and even private charter companies. If you're booking tickets to hard-to-reach places, or even major tourist destinations, a travel agent will be able to wrangle discounts most website-based services can ...

  17. Top 10 Skills and Qualities Required for Travel Consultant

    Skills and Courses required for the Travel Agent. 1. Excellent Communication Skills. From conducting research interviews with the client's employees to managing the team and stakeholders, writing business proposals and delivering presentations, effective communication is highly important in consulting work.

  18. What Does a Travel Agent Do? Roles And Responsibilities

    Performed travel agent duties providing a prestige customer experience in booking tours internationally and domestically for a fast paced tour company. AAA, 8%. Assist AAA Members in all areas of travel including airline tickets, vacation packages, cruises, tours and independent travel. Credit Card, 7%.

  19. What is a Travel Agent and Do You Have What it Takes?

    Travel Agent Personality Traits & Interests Travel agents love travel. Without the passion for and interest in travel and all that the world has to share with us, we would simply lack the ability to share enthusiasm and encouragement to bring the world to others through travel experiences.

  20. What It Takes To Be a Successful Travel Agent

    8. And a travel agent must be extremely resourceful. There is no playbook for selling travel. The most successful agents in the industry are the ones who know how to manoeuvre around obstacles to get the most for their clients. A good travel agent knows when to push and not take no for an answer.

  21. Brand Personality on Your Travel Agent Website

    Think about what characteristics are part of your travel agency brand personality. For instance, are you a luxurious, high-end travel agent catering to a once-on-a-lifetime dream trip? Or are you a budget-friendly, adventure-packed travel agency specializing in adrenaline-inducing vacation packages and an off-the-beaten-path experience?

  22. Career profile for Travel Agent

    The median salary for a Travel Agent is $42,350, and the average salary is $46,650. Both the median and average roughly describe the middle of the Travel Agent salary range, but the average is more easily affected by extremely high or low salaries. Many Travel Agents earn significantly more or less than the average, due to several factors.

  23. The Travel Agent Personality Type on Crystal

    The average Travel Agent tends to be detail-oriented, skeptical of change, and likely prefer a step-by-step plan before making a decision. ... Personality Traits of the Average Travel Agent. Risk-tolerant. Willing or open to taking risks. TA. ... This is a predicted personality based on the average personality test results on Crystal for people ...