No matter where you are in your Agent Journey, questions are bound to come up. Today, agents are asking smarter, more strategic questions than ever. From business growth to day-to-day support, these are the most frequently asked travel agent support questions we’re hearing this year and the answers you need to stay focused and successful.
How do travel agents find clients?
The top concern travel agents have is finding clients. We like to reframe this question more about building relationships and how people can find YOU. First, think about the relationships you already have and how you can start sharing your passion for travel. Learning about a person and finding a common interest will naturally build a connection. From there, you can weave travel into your conversations and establish trust before asking for a sale.
Beyond in-person networking, an email or printed newsletter sent to your address book or holiday card list keeps you top of mind. The goal is that when people think about traveling, they think of you. KHM Travel Group offers a monthly email newsletter template, various social media resources, and one-on-one coaching to help with marketing.
Can I work from home or part-time?
As an independent contractor, you can choose when, where, and how much you work. There are no minimal sales requirements or commitments to how often you work on your business with KHM Travel Group. Many travel agents start this as a part-time business, while working another job or devoting time to family. Some continue that, while others find that their business grows so much that they can sell travel as their full-time career!
Whether you have one hour or eight hours to devote to your business each day, KHM Travel Group puts the right tools and resources in your hands to be successful.
How much do travel agents make?
This is a question we hear often. And it’s understandable considering that’s a major factor in many people’s decision to start a business. While we can’t provide an exact range, we do find that those who are able to put in more time and effort enjoy a higher earning potential.
Building a business takes time and KHM Travel Group’s education teaches you how to get started the right way, not the quick way. We’ve found that creating a solid foundation and prioritizing education leads to greater success.
Do I need to be certified or licensed?
Education should be at the top of your list when you get started; however, certification is not required to become a travel agent or sell travel. We recommend that once agents complete our introductory education, they consider gaining certifications from our industry partners. This not only builds knowledge, but it also adds to your credibility as a professional and trusted resource.
For any travel advisor looking to increase their learning, gain networking opportunities, and benefit from professional development, the following organizations are a great place to start.
- ASTA (American Society of Travel Advisors)
- CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association)
- The Travel Institute
Hear our Education Manager Carolyn Orf explain more about industry certifications based on her own experiences in this video.
What tools or software do I need?
To get started, you need access to a phone, computer or laptop, and reliable internet connection. That’s it! KHM Travel Group provides you with a CRM (client relationship management system), access to supplier booking engines with our credentials, and several resources to get you organized.
How do commissions work?
As an agent with KHM Travel Group, you’ll start out earning an 80% commission payout. This means that from the total commission the supplier has paid to KHM Travel Group, you will receive 80% of that amount. You are paid once the client travels. KHM Travel Group offers weekly commission payouts, which means you’ll receive timely commissions.
Remember, suppliers pay your commission, not the client–it’s important that your clients understand that. It’s a common misconception that travelers automatically pay more by working with a travel advisor.
For a more detailed explanation of the commission process, check out our Commissions page.
What kind of support will I have?
The support you receive from a good host agency is often worth the cost of membership alone. Whether it’s a quick question through KHM Travel Group’s live chat system or a more in-depth conversation through a scheduled coaching call, you’ll always be interacting with real people, with real experience to share. Our Agent Support starts from the moment you join and doesn’t end.
In addition to the support of the team, one of the best parts of joining a host agency is the sense of community from fellow agents. Through in-person events, online discussions, even just casual chats, you’ll get to know other agents. This is a build-in support system of people who know what you’re going through. Celebrate together. Resolve issues together. And build lasting friendships together.
Do travel agents get discounts or free trips?
There are fantastic perks to being a travel agent, but if free travel is your top reason for getting started, you may want to reconsider. Some suppliers offer travel opportunities, but it’s important to realize that these often come once qualifications are met. When suppliers invest in bringing you to their properties and ships, they want to first see that you are serious about your business and dedicated to learning about their products.
Building supplier relationships is a great way to open opportunities for FAM trips. They can get to know your business, goals, and reasons for wanting to experience a resort or ship.
We understand that every travel agent’s situation is different, which is why we work closely with our supplier partners to offer unique FAM trip travel opportunities throughout the year.
Is this a good time to become a travel agent?
The independent travel agent industry is growing every day–and that’s for a good reason. The demand for expertise and personalization from real people you can trust has become a priority for today’s travelers. Since the pandemic, more people are looking for new experiences, but don’t have the time to devote to researching and planning. That’s where a trusted travel professional comes in!
What are the biggest challenges travel agents face?
Based on our agent surveys, the three most common hurdles for travel agents are finding clients, staying motivated, and having the time to devote to growing a business. These challenges aren’t all that different from any small business. We understand that these are common obstacles and focus on the ways we help people overcome them. From time management resources to weekly check-ins, monthly webinars, and personalized support, we’re on your Agent Journey right alongside you to provide guidance and help you achieve your goals!
With new tools, evolving supplier relationships, and higher client expectations, having the right support matters more than ever. Learn more about KHM Travel Group’s unique travel agent program by calling our team at 888-611-1220. We’ll help answer the travel agent support questions that matter most to you!
