Whether you saw the news that VAX VacationAccess hosted its first-ever event in tandem with the Las Vegas Travel Agent Forum earlier this month or heard good things about annual conferences like ASTA and Ascend, you know that one of the most exciting parts of working in the travel industry is attending in-person events throughout the year. And while travel pros of all varieties can benefit from attending, this is especially true for travel advisors who can use the tools and momentum they glean from the large-scale gatherings to network with their peers, learn something new and, ultimately, grow their businesses.
Are you wondering what to expect from your first in-person travel advisor event? Here’s some advice for making the most of it.
Make Connections
Between educational sessions, shared meals, trade shows, cocktail hours and more, industry events provide ample opportunities to network and make connections. Whether you’re looking to meet other travel advisors or want to talk to reps from specific brands, events make it easy to put names to faces and forge new relationships along the way. On the topic of networking, be sure to have lots of business cards handy and don’t be afraid to share them liberally — you never know who you might run into.
Take Notes
With so much educational-goodness packed into such a short amount of time, remembering everything you learn at an in-person event can be a struggle. Do your future self a favor and take plenty of notes during sessions and round tables so that you can reference them later. Similarly, write down or take a photo of speakers’ names and companies so that you can follow them for more pearls of wisdom and inspiration upon returning home.
Get Outside of Your Comfort Zone
If the thought of attending an in-person event feels intimidating to you, you’re not alone. With so much social time loaded into one itinerary, the idea of mixing and mingling with strangers can be daunting, especially if you’re thinking about attending alone. However, to this we say two things: 1) You can do it, and 2) Don’t be afraid to get outside of your comfort zone. Whether that means making the first move and striking up a conversation with someone you’ve never met before, going all in on learning something new or simply having the courage to put yourself out there, we promise you’ll leave feeling confident and fulfilled by simply going for it.
Check Out These Annual Events for Travel Advisors
Stay Fueled
Events and conferences tend to have jam-packed schedules, as such, it’s important to make sure you can bring the best version of yourself to the table by remaining fueled. And by that we mean by stocking up on caffeine and snacks, of course! Whether you grab an extra granola bar, a banana or have a pack of gum on deck, don’t make the mistake of showing up empty handed — you’ll thank yourself when you have something to munch on when your stomach starts to growl. On the beverage front, bring a refillable water bottle if you have one, and make sure to indulge in a coffee or tea to stay awake and alert if you find yourself in need of an extra boost.
Be Active On Social Media
What’s better than working with a travel advisor? Working with a travel advisor who stays up to date with the latest industry news and happenings and can use them to turn your vacation dreams into a reality. Your clients recognize you for what you are, a travel expert, and sharing snippets of where you’re going, what you’re learning and who you’re meeting at an in-person event will only further cement you as a travel master in their minds. Take the opportunity to tease a few exciting things you think your clients might be interested in like theme park openings, hotel updates, unique destination experiences and more. Not to mention, events are a natural catalyst for inspiration, making it easy to snap a few photos, perhaps even a video or two, and share them on your socials.
Have Fun
Last, but not least, have fun! Travel is an amazing industry, and events allow you to tap into a few of the components that make it so incredible. From kind, inspirational people to exciting products and beautiful destinations, it’s hard not to get excited when you’re surrounded by so much good energy. Go in with a positive attitude, learn something new and try to have a little bit of fun along the way — we’re certain it will come pretty naturally.
About the Author
comments