Gerri Augustine’s professional life has come full circle. Twenty-five years ago she took her first job as a travel agent, which kickstarted her long career in service and hospitality.
After that, she owned a string of health clubs for women, and oversaw 300 employees in 30 locations across New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. She then owned 11 fitness centers in Virginia.
After selling her fitness business, she became an executive with Marriott in Palm Beach and very involved in vacations. She missed running her own business, and decided to turn to what she loved, which was travel.
She says the second time around, the game had completely changed. No paper airline tickets, no storefront office, a completely different marketing strategy.
“The fun had begun and KHM has assisted me in every step,” says Gerri. “I was always part of a team and the KHM family has given me that daily!”
Her Florida-based agency, Sea Dreams Travel, reached our Pinnacle Elite level last year, and she is pushing for $300,000 in sales this year. She specializes in luxury, FIT (For Independent Travel) and cruises.
Her favorite part of her job is seeing her clients happy. It makes going the extra mile for them worth the time. Providing excellent service and follow-up has given her business staying power.
Getting educated was one of her initial challenges, but she advises new agents to start with learning what they like to sell, then specialize. She also lists networking groups, Facebook and engagement through email as the most valuable marketing techniques for her agency.
Despite the shifts in the industry, Gerri has found a way to adapt and make herself invaluable to her clients.
Congratulations to Gerri on her success – we appreciate you sharing your story!
If you’d like to start a fun, rewarding career as a travel agent, fill out the form on the right of the screen or call 1-888-611-1220 to receive our free start-up packet.