20 Game-Changing Tips for Travel Agent Success

In celebration of KHM Travel Group’s 20th anniversary on March 3, 2025, I’ve collected 20 of my favorite tips to help travel agents create a more successful and organized business.

1. Developing relationships with potential and current clients is essential to building trust. Simple steps like including your headshot on your agency’s website or in your email signature can go a long way in forming a connection.
2. Think about which airport/s most of your clients fly from. It’s important to know the days and times of popular flights and which suppliers offer the best selection.
3. Anticipating your customer’s needs will increase the odds they will book with you again – and recommend you to their friends! Ask qualifying questions beyond the surface to discover if they have more specific accessibility needs or dietary concerns.
4. Use the resources available to you through your host agency, travel suppliers and industry organizations. Often, they provide templates that can be easily personalized and shared on social media.
5. One of the most important parts of running a travel business, or any small business, is communication. Respond promptly and fulfill any expectations and promises you make.
6. Don’t be shy about asking for reviews. Positive reviews can go a long way in helping you gain new clients. If you’ve built a relationship and provided excellent customer service, most people will be willing to give a few minutes of their time to write a review.
7. Seek opportunities for FAM trips or Seminars at Sea. When you’ve seen a resort or ship for yourself, you can better help your clients understand what to expect.
8. Connect with your clients over their hobbies and interests. Let the experiences they hope to have on vacation be the inspiration for their trip so that you can help match them to the perfect destination.
9. Many social media platforms offer a free live-streaming option, so it’s ideal for business owners on a budget. Live video is great for checking in with your clients, providing general tips and showing your own travel experiences.
10. Educational opportunities for travel advisors are abundant. Use slower booking periods to update your existing certifications and start working toward new ones.
11. Consider using an online scheduling tool to keep your calendar organized by allowing clients to book meetings with you directly. This will cut down on back-and-forth emails.
12. In times of crisis, understanding an airline or travel supplier’s policy is crucial. Strongly encourage your clients to read terms and conditions so they understand their options should something go wrong.
13. Not every host agency has the same memberships and reputation. If you want to ensure you’re with a trustworthy and well-respected host, look for participation in industry organizations like ASTA, CLIA and PATH.
14. Make the most of your time spent on hold. One of the benefits of working as an independent travel agent is the ability to work from home with a flexible schedule. Use those precious minutes to do quick tasks around the house, get up and stretch and hydrate.
15. Set goals and check in with them throughout the year to decide if they need to be adjusted. If you meet your sales goal early, set a new goal that reflects your continued growth.
16. If you don’t have a designated business phone number, be sure to have an appropriate and professional outgoing message that tells people they have reached the correct number for your business.
17. Prevent stress from creeping into relationships with your loved ones at home by clearly communicating your home office boundaries. Consider using a “do not disturb” sign to let others know when you are completing tasks that require complete focus like having a consultation or making payments.
18. If you provide a client with a quote and they reply with a price comparison of an online booking site, explain to them where the differences may be and how that could impact their experience. Educating is part of being a travel advisor.
19. In-person events, whether through a supplier, industry association or your host agency, provide valuable education and networking. Don’t pass up the chance to attend something if it works for your schedule and budget.
20. Have fun! You’re in the business of selling something people excitedly plan and look forward to for months. Being the person to connect people to these memory-making experiences is something to appreciate and enjoy whenever possible.