If you’re like me, then the experience of checking your email each morning is a lot more pleasant lately. It seems like every day there are more stories of the travel industry emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic.
However, lost in all the good news are some of the challenges facing travel advisors. A recent survey by host agency Travel Experts collected a few of the issues its members are currently dealing with — including changes in health protocols; slow and unresponsive suppliers; long telephone wait times; car rental unavailability; higher airfares and schedule changes; short lead times in client requests; and more.
Suppliers can certainly help with some of these hurdles — although many companies are overwhelmed themselves as they hire for empty positions and train new staff. Still, it is important for suppliers to understand that while strong demand is great, cooperation with advisors is key to successfully fulfilling customers’ expectations.
At TravelAge West, we are aware of the hard work of travel advisors and the frustrations they face. So, more than ever, we think it is time for agents to get a win by entering our annual Trendsetter Awards.
Of course, many of these difficulties extend far beyond the travel industry. Many sectors are facing shortages right now — of supplies or personnel — and your customers have probably encountered similar conditions elsewhere. In fact, it might be a good time to point out to clients, and would-be clients, that your expertise is shielding them from even more aggravation if they attempted to plan their own trip.
At TravelAge West, we are aware of the hard work of travel advisors and the frustrations they face. So, more than ever, we think it is time for agents to get a win by entering our annual Trendsetter Awards. This year, we have awards in four categories: Best Use of Social Media, Best Pandemic Business Pivot, Best Client Engagement Strategy and Upward Bound, Rockstar Agent Under 40. A winner and runner-up in each category will win great travel prizes, as well as be featured in an upcoming cover story. Visit www.travelagewest.com/wave-awards/trendsetters to enter.
