What:
Part two of The Travel Institute’s The Changing Face of Travel Agents report explores job contentment. The report reveals that 96 percent of agents are happy with their current position (compared to 84 percent in 2008), and that 97 percent are likely to remain employed in the travel industry for the rest of their career (compared to 52 percent in 2008). Although only 29 percent of agents in 2008 suggested a career as a retail travel agent, 68 percent of agents now recommend the profession.
Why It Matters:
Compared to a decade ago, advisors are generally much more fulfilled and secure in their careers. Part of the reason for the difference might have to do with the economy, which was struggling in 2008. Nonetheless, these figures about job contentment reflect how satisfying a career as a travel advisor can be and celebrate the currently thriving nature of the travel advisor profession.
Fast Facts:
- They report also explored how much travel agents make. Sales for Travel Institute Certified agents average at $554,880, with compensation averaging at $42,953.
- These earning figures are higher than agents with other certifications, and significantly higher than agents with no certification or specialist training, whose compensation averages at $19,428.
- Nearly a quarter of Travel Institute certified graduates earned more than $60,000 in 2017. Only 7 percent of non-certified agents made earnings above $60,000.
- Only 11 percent of agents reported job-related stress, compared to 29 percent in 2008.
- Part one of the survey explored significant growth in Independent Contractors.
- Approximately 2,000 travel agents responded to the online survey which was conducted in December 2017 by Schreiner Research Services, an independent market research organization.
What They Are Saying:
“I look at these results, especially compensation, as a trifecta for our industry beginning with well-trained travel professionals who are earning significantly more money than agents without advanced learning,” said Diane Petras, president of The Travel Institute. “Secondly, for suppliers, whose distribution network is immensely smarter and more proficient at selling travel, including their specific products. And lastly, the consumer who truly benefits from agents’ hard-earned knowledge and skills that go hand-in-hand in creating an extraordinary vacation experience.”
The Details
The Travel Institute
www.thetravelinstitute.com
