Is there anything that I can offer my customers as a Travel Counsellor which sets me apart?
Yes, time and peace of mind! Through the excellent back-up support you will have more time to concentrate on each customer allowing you the the opportunity to carry out more detailed searches with more value added benefits. As a Travel Counsellor you can also offer your customers unique financial protection on that any booking made through us is fully protected. We also offer over 180 wholesale and tour operations in our portfolio giving you more choice.
Can I choose my own hours?
It’s your business, so you’re the boss. Just make sure that you’re devoting enough time to developing your business and nurturing your customer base. If you’re working one hour a day and expecting incredible rewards, you might be disappointed – it’s no coincidence that our most successful Travel Counsellors are also our hardest working!
Do I have to be home-based?
The vast majority of our Travel Counsellors work from home – but if you’d prefer, you’re welcome to rent a non-retail office. But our stats show that you’ll be happier and more successful working from the comfort of your own home!
I’ve heard home working can be lonely. Is there any support available?
There are over 1,350 Travel Counsellors working around the clock, around the world – so you’ll always find that there’s someone to talk to if you fancy a chat! But we’re not just about webcams, messageboards and TCTV broadcasts. You’ll have plenty of ways to meet with your friends and colleagues face to face, with our anniversary days, training days and our prestigious Annual Conference. As a member of the TC family, we promise you’ll never feel alone.
If you would like support at any time, our friendly and helpful Business Development team, based in Melbourne, are only ever a phone call away.
What experience do I need?
Ideally we look for a minimum of four years recent hands-on sales experience selling both international and domestic travel.
How long does it take to get set up?
Dependent on your notice period from initial inquiry to start of training we can set you up within 3 weeks. Our induction training's are held every 3-4 weeks making the transition seamless for you and your customers.
How long is the initial training?
Our training is in depth and we split this over a 6 days. The initial 3 days training is held at our head office in Melbourne and the remaining days are completed over a 6 month period.
Is there a minimum sales target?
No, but we do indicate in the franchise agreement that in the second year of operation we would expect to see you achieve an average minimum gross sales goal of $25,000 per month.
When do we get paid?
You’ll be paid monthly by bank transfer, with commissions earned 8 weeks before the customer travel date. If you have any queries, you can always call our Accounts team for friendly expertise!
Do you provide leads?
One of the pre-induction activities involves sending over all your personal and business contacts – whether they’ve ever booked with you or not. We’ll add them to your Contact Centre ready for when you come for your Induction. You’ll then receive our full support to help you nurture and grow that list into a loyal customer base.
Will you help me market my business?
Yes, your Business Development Executive will help you develop a detailed plan on how to market yourself and your business in the area. We also have great business and leisure aids such as PowerPoint presentations and business presentation folders for tendering purposes. Plus we have great tools for you to use on our intranet system such as personalised marketing e-shots, electronic postcards and destination guides, which you can utilise.
Is there out of hours support?
In addition to the unparalleled support provided by our team at head office, there is also staff on standby out of hours to assist in an emergency. With our global office in the UK you will also have helpdesk available 24 hours a day. Alternatively, you can use the Travel Counsellors messageboard to get support from your colleagues around the world.
What happens when I go on holiday?
We all need a break – so rest assured that your business won’t suffer while you’re taking some well-earned time away! We operate a buddy system, so a named Travel Counsellor will look after your customers in your absence. We just ask that you return the favour!
Can I rely on your Head Office for my admin?
Yes, we look after all of the administration and have a dedicated team to look after queries. This proven process provides consistency, continuity and a seamless service. Additionally, all your sales and commissions, which are paid to you monthly, are tracked daily and are displayed live on your intranet screen for you to see. The whole system is very transparent.
I’ve always enjoyed going on educational trips – will I still have that opportunity?
We understand that to sell a destination, first-hand experience is invaluable. Thanks to our strong supplier relationships, we’re delighted to offer a wide range of educational opportunities to all Travel Counsellors.
Can I still employ my own staff?
Because of the unique nature of your franchise agreement with Travel Counsellors, there are no limits on your hiring of staff if you feel you need to. Additionally, you can even sell your business and realise its value at a later date!
What does it cost to become a Travel Counsellor?
The cost to join us is $650 + GST which covers induction training as well as a laptop with all systems preloaded such as Galileo, Microsoft and our in-house reservations sytem. Thereafter there is a monthly management fee of $92 per month which includes your professional indemnity insurance and public liability insurance.
Can I have another job?
No, we ask that our agents are 100% committed to their franchise business.
What happens if I want to leave?
We have a 5 year contract however we do not have any lock in fees, so should you need to terminate your franchise before that time you may do so. Most importantly your database is yours to keep and goes with you.
What about a website?
We set you up with a personal webpage at no additional cost, so that your customers can find you and read about you as well as displaying your contact details. It also gives you a place to write all about the amazing places you have been and to share your customer testimonials.
Am I truly mobile?
You have access to state of the art technology, where you can meet your client anywhere, book their holiday anytime and take payment all in one go. We set you up with a laptop and will link all your mobile devices so that you have access at any time. We offer you 24 hour IT support so that you have peace of mind.
Other companies offer a better commission split, will you match them?
Travel Counsellors offers outstanding value for its fee structure. Besides the superior administration and technology support we provide which surpasses anything else in the market, we are also continually making investments in technology costing millions of dollars each year. This on-going investment ensures that you stay at the forefront of the travel industry and comes at no additional cost to you. No other company offers the scope of hands on business development support and marketing tools which are so critical in helping you to win new business. Many items that other companies charge for are free with Travel Counsellors: we will not charge courier fees to deliver documents to you, or for developing your personal website. No other company supplies free laptops, printers, stationery, ticket wallets, luggage labels and other marketing items. Plus you earn more with our Phenix Online product which offers you 20% commission on more than 100,000 hotels worldwide. When you compare the additional costs of other home-working companies to the all-inclusive approach of Travel Counsellors, you will soon discover that we offer the best package in the market.
