There has been tremendous change in the world and in the travel industry during and since the pandemic. The travel industry was one of the worst impacted and is still climbing out of that period – especially financially.
Many travel advisors are asking themselves, should they make a change or stay where they are? And is it the right time to make a change? This could mean changing to home based – or changing their host agency.
The Travel Agent Next Door has seen an unprecedented number of travel advisors join the host agency during and since the pandemic – some of them experienced travel advisors who used to work in a bricks and mortar agency, some of them independent travel advisors who used to be with another host agency, and still others who are new travel agents and just joining the industry.
Our series continues with interviews featuring agents who recently joined The Travel Agent Next Door and their experience since joining.
This month we interviewed Jeff Sarich, The Travel Agent Next Door, Lethbridge, AB.
- When did you join the travel industry?
Sarich: “I joined in 2009.”
- When did you join TTAND? Where were you before?
Sarich: “I joined TTAND in January 2023. I was previously with Expedia Cruises.”
- Why did you pick that particular time to make a change?
Sarich: “With all the change and improvements over the past two years, the travel industry has adapted to better serve its customers. Video conferencing like Google Meet allows face to face time without the need for a bricks and mortar setting. Changes with suppliers have evolved and now allow travel consultants more booking options than ever before.”
- What factors made you choose TTAND over other host agencies?
Sarich: “I was exposed to the structure at TTAND as an associate agent just prior to March 2020 and I came to understand the goals of the company. After taking a few years to relax during the pandemic (wink) the time to once again offer clients travel services is here. The TTAND business model is well suited to adapt to the most challenging circumstances.”
- What has your personal experience been since joining TTAND?
Sarich: “The ‘More’ agent dashboard and the Agent’s personal site design is simple to use, update and promote your travel business. Dedicated departments including Training, Web, Email and Accounting are with you each step of the way. Within the TTAND company, ‘More’ is not just a word but rather a philosophy to provide more support, marketing and commissions to ensure success.”
