Here, at TravelAge West, we recently had a meeting with our Editorial Advisory Board, which is made up of travel advisors and suppliers.
There were a lot of good takeaways from the discussion, but more than anything else, it’s clear that everyone is feeling overwhelmed, stressed-out and time-starved.
There are a lot of reasons for this dilemma.
First, business is booming — clients are back and people are looking to travel — which is generally good news, but the incredible surge in demand takes a toll.
Next, pandemic regulations are changing rapidly, and advisors are constantly playing catch-up. Plus, agents are expected to be experts in COVID-19 protocols, which means they need to know about a change the moment it happens and instantly understand all the intricacies of the rules.
Finally, most agencies and companies are seriously understaffed. This leaves advisors stuck in a Catch-22: Because agencies are busy, they need more help, but because they need help, they are too busy to hire and train new agents.
More than anything else, it’s clear that everyone is feeling overwhelmed, stressed-out and time-starved.
We examine the situation in an op-ed by Kate Thomas, owner of tour operator North & Leisure and co-founder of the Travel Pro Theory podcast. The piece discusses the problems that are caused by the unrealistic expectations of clients, understaffing at suppliers — including long wait times and incorrect information — and more.
Thomas suggests that advisors change the way they conduct their relationships with suppliers and customers. Agents need to be more open about their needs, limitations and abilities. And, heaven forbid, maybe even turn away some business.
All of us will have our own way to deal with new demands as the world reopens. So, take charge of your time and efforts, reach out for help, and take comfort in the idea that you are not going through this alone.
