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At Global Travel Collection, our advisors are essential to our success, and we are committed to nurturing their growth and well-being. Given today’s travel environment, the industry has plenty to address — technology, marketing, education and recruitment. But at Global Travel Collection, we consistently create programs and opportunities that offer substantial benefits for our advisors. By providing new tools, learning opportunities, a supportive environment and attractive incentives, we empower them to thrive, grow their businesses and reinforce their leadership in the industry.

I like to say that we are creating a 'class of our own' by prioritizing the advancement and growth of our independent contractors while also strengthening relationships to boost revenue with our industry partners. How do we do it? Following are some of our tricks of the trade. These initiatives not only support their work but also help showcase their expertise to a broader national and consumer audience — an essential step for growing the travel industry and driving benefits across partners, advisors and clients alike.  

Providing access. In this business, access gives travel advisors a competitive edge. That is why earlier this year, Global Travel Collection unveiled, "Concierge," powered by TEN, which enables advisors to work directly with local concierge experts to secure top dining reservations in major cities and to arrange exclusive experiences like VIP tickets for concerts, sporting events, art shows and more.

Filling the gap. A significant technology gap exists in travel planning, particularly in music, theater, television and film. Identifying opportunities in these sectors was crucial for our continued growth, so we entered into a strategic partnership with Reposite, combining their technology with our advisors' expertise. This tool was created to connect advisors to a database of over 30,000 supplier partner options, assisting with request-for-proposals, supplier sourcing, itinerary creation, client relations and workflow management.

Thinking differently. Last year, we introduced "1st Look Presents – Extra Mile Club," a travel competition series developed with NBCUniversal Local's LXTV Productions. This project was not only a pleasure for us to develop, it also created a valuable platform to elevate all travel advisors in the eyes of today's consumers. The second season premiered this fall, highlighting Hawaii's resilience after recent wildfires. The Maui episodes co-starred two of our advisors who competed to create exceptional experiences for Emma Hernan and Chelsea Lazkani from Netflix's "Selling Sunset." We're excited to announce that more episodes will air in December, so stay tuned!

Leveraging AI. Harnessing the power of artificial intelligence has significantly elevated our services for upscale clients while amplifying the visibility of our travel advisors. Our company takes a proactive approach to technology, viewing AI as a transformative tool for both consumers and advisors alike. Importantly, we believe that AI enhances the advisor experience rather than replaces it, empowering our advisors to deliver unparalleled service and expertise in the travel industry.

Our Product Management team is committed to advancing travel technology and AI. At our recent Elevate Connections conference in New York City, we launched GTC Atlas, an AI tool that boosts internal platform efficiency, enabling advisors to quickly access essential information, such as supplier contacts and business resources, transforming client service.

Mixing high-touch with high-tech. In addition, we expanded relationship with Nicer, a travel technology company, to create a new agency AI platform that will initially be used by advisors affiliated with In the Know Experiences, one of our boutique luxury travel agencies.  Nicer's tech streamlines workflows to help advisors plan extraordinary trips and goes further to deliver personalized dining recommendations and reservations around the globe.

Recognizing and rewarding top performers. We recently developed The Circle, a program celebrating travel advisors making noteworthy contributions to our company and inspiring those who are on their way to becoming top producers. The Circle brings a suite of initiatives, services and events aimed at boosting advisors and their business potential. This recognition is a core element of our recently reimagined service framework, led by our Advisor Success Organization, focused on enhancing advisor support. Through The Circle, I look forward to honoring more achievements by our community of passionate travel advisors.

About the Author

Angie Licea is the President of Global Travel Collection, part of Internova Travel Group, the most influential collection of international luxury travel agencies. More than 1,500 GTC advisors are industry leaders in providing premium travel services to leisure travelers, corporate executives and the entertainment industry. Angie’s commitment to excellence in the industry extends to service on travel-related and philanthropic Advisory Boards, including Nicer Travel and Family Bonds.


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