As Small Business Saturday approaches, many of us are thinking about how we can support our community through our local businesses. Buying our holiday gifts at local shops, ordering from creators’ online stores, or hiring a local professional for a home project all give small business owners a boost. But don’t forget about your local travel agent!
Many travel agents work their travel businesses from home. This means travelers may not see a storefront to remind them about the services travel agents provide. But they are an important part of the small business community!
We can think of many reasons why travel agents rock, but these are among the most important to keep in mind during the holiday shopping season.
1. Travel Agents Work for You
One of the most common misconceptions about travel agents is that they work for the companies that they are selling travel for. But that’s not the case. Travel agents work on behalf of the traveler! They personally guide their clients through the process of finding the right travel experience within the budget clients set. Often, they share two or three of their best options. Then, their clients choose the final option, saving time and energy.
2. Expert Advice for Stress-Free Travel Planning
We’ve all been put on hold with call centers before, and it’s never a fun experience. But with a travel agent, that’s no longer a part of the travel planning process. You’ll work with a real person who understands your needs and has direct connections to travel brands and cruise companies. Combined with personal experiences, their expert knowledge gives travelers confidence in knowing someone has their back.
3. They’re Here for You Long-Term
The challenges travel can bring shows many travelers why it’s so important to book with their travel agent. Travel agents are there for their clients from the day they start talking a trip until they return home. If something should go wrong, they have a direct line with travel companies and will work on behalf of their clients to correct errors and work on solutions.
They also help clients plan trips far into the future by booking travel with a deposit. This allows travelers to pay the remaining costs over time. And since booking early is often the best value, this helps their clients get the most out of every dollar.
How Can You Support Your Travel Agent on Small Business Saturday?
Besides booking your next trip, there are more ways you can show love to your trusted travel agent.
- Like and share their posts on social media.
- Comment on posts and tag a friend to encourage them to follow too.
- Leave a positive review on Google Reviews, Facebook, and/or TLN Agent Profiler.
- Refer your family, friends, and coworkers to book with them.
- Send a short message of gratitude.
Whether it’s a long weekend cruise, a week relaxing in the Caribbean, or an epic bucket list adventure, local travel agents are ready and excited to help travelers see the world this Small Business Saturday and every day!
