Scott Koepf, senior vice president of strategic development for Cruise Planners, recently received the 2021 Lifetime Achievement Award from Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA).
“Scott’s positive reputation extends from the C-suite of major travel suppliers to new-to-the-industry travel advisors — he goes out of his way to make everyone feel valuable,” said Michelle Fee, CEO and founder of Cruise Planners, in a press release. “From his strong stage presence to his booming singing voice, to his years of selling cruises and travel, he continues to impart his knowledge and passion into our beloved industry.”
We chatted with the honoree to further reflect on his storied career.
How does it feel to be honored with this award from CLIA?
The recognition was really an honor, and I was humbled by it. As I mentioned in my acceptance speech, when I found out about it, my life flashed before me. Hard to imagine almost 40 years peddlin’ boat rides could be a flash, but it was. I love this industry, and it has been a privilege to be a part of it.
How has your performance background boosted your cruising career over the years?
More than anything, I think it led me into the training, teaching and speaking roles I gravitated to in this business. I love helping travel advisors look differently at their careers and reach for greater success. I think we remember more when wrapped in a story — or song — and so that has always been how I have approached teaching.
The desire to turn to travel advisors will be higher than ever, but it will still be competitive. Know what type of clients you want to work with, and specifically determine why you are the only choice for them to turn to when planning their next vacation.
What do you personally consider to be some of your greatest achievements?
This recognition is certainly a pinnacle, but throughout the years, I do not think anything feels better than when travel advisors tell me that I have had a positive impact on their business, career or life.
Where do you think the cruise industry and Cruise Planners are heading next as they leave the pandemic behind?
As we have all been dealing with the current situation longer than imaginable, and it will not be a quick recovery. I believe in the long haul, we will all be better off because of it. Not only will demand be at an all-time high, but the products we sell will be better than ever. As for Cruise Planners, we have invested in building our technology and marketing platforms so we will be in the best position possible in the future. I am very optimistic.
As we have all been dealing with the current situation longer than imaginable, and it will not be a quick recovery. I believe in the long haul, we will all be better off because of it.
What advice would you give to travel agents during this transition period back to cruise operations?
Take this time to review every aspect of your business, and write out the best practices you will follow for every step of marketing and sales moving forward. Make sure you are with an organization that provides the support, technology and resources you need to reach your goals with maximum efficiency. The desire to turn to travel advisors will be higher than ever, but it will still be competitive. Know what type of clients you want to work with, and specifically determine why you are the only choice for them to turn to when planning their next vacation.
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