What does it take to be a Mobile Travel Agent?

Are you thinking of starting your own Mobile Travel Business this financial year? Whilst the lure of freedom and being your own boss is strong, what does it really take to be a successful Home Based Agent? Here are the top traits shared by some of the best home based agents in the business.

1.      Be Realistic – it takes time to build a business. Like starting any new business, have a contingency plan to support yourself in the first 12 – 24 months whilst you focus on building. Don’t jump ship with everything to lose!

2.      You need to love Business Development – If you don’t like networking, speaking to people at events, hosting or running information sessions, then it will be hard to build your own travel business. You have to be prepared to put yourself out there.

3.      Be consistent at Marketing -  Love it or hate it, social media is one of the most cost effective ways to communicate with your customers on a regular basis. By understanding how to use marketing tools offered by Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube you can track how effective your campaigns are, what your customers like and add to your database Australia wide. Sending a professional weekly EDM to your database alerts your clients to the latest deals but it also keeps you front of mind.

4.      Community is important. Starting a business can be isolating. Ensure your chosen Travel Company offers you an experienced mentor and a team that is willing to share with regular monthly training. There is plenty of business to go around so sharing and learning from each other helps the whole team grow. Make sure your family is on board with your decision to start your business and surround yourself with cheerleaders (friends, family, parents).

5.      Work the numbers. Make sure you know your financials. The money you spend on your business, the money you earn on your business and engage a good accountant. Do the sums and know whether commission splits, fees and retainers will work for your client base, in the short term and in the long run. Keep aside your Super contributions to plan for your future security and tax so you don't have any nasty surprises at tax time.

 Starting your own business is not for everyone, but there are so many work and life benefits if you’re ready for the challenge! Make sure you choose the right group for you, that has knowledge and experience in helping you get your business off the ground.

By Marie Sulda, Director of Kaleidoscopic Travel