7 mistakes to avoid when developing a travel niche.
Here are the most common mistakes we hear from our travel agents – and they heartily suggest avoiding.
1. FORCING YOURSELF INTO A NICHE THAT YOU DON’T ENJOY
This is why FAMs are so important. Don’t force yourself in a niche. As
soon as you try it, you might decide you will not
enjoy traveling to or selling all-inclusive resorts.
Sometimes correcting something is just not offering it as
a service.
2. NICHING TOO NARROWLY AND MOVING TOO QUICKLY
We have seen agents focus on a very narrow niche and
invest a lot of money in it too soon. Successfully selling a travel specialty is something
that can build with time and cannot be created in
short order.
3. CHOOSING A NICHE JUST TO MAKE MONEY
Find the one thing you’re passionate about. Not the
sector you think you can make the most in, but the one
that makes you happy.
Your potential
clients will see your genuine happiness and they will
be drawn in naturally out of curiosity. You can always
branch out and sell all travel, but find something, learn
it well, and be the travel agent that your friends, family,
and current clients want to promote because they
know you’ll take great care of their referral. The best
thank-you is a future referral.
4. TURNING AWAY BUSINESS BECAUSE YOU DON’T SPECIALIZE IN IT
Rather than letting that prospect slip through your
fingers, pass it along to another travel advisor who can
serve them well. Sometimes business is so good
that there are not enough hours of the day. We have
been very blessed, but if it’s not the right fit, I’ll send them
to someone else in our agency.
5. GIVING UP BEFORE YOU START
How do you know if you can win in a travel niche if
you do not even try? Now is the time to muster up your
courage, put on your thinking cap, and take action.
Other travel advisors have prosperously expanded
their businesses by selling a travel specialty, and you
can, too. And most importantly, don’t
be afraid to make mistakes. And when you do, do
not repeat them. Learn from them and always keep
moving forward.
6. NEGLECTING TO STAY UPDATED IN YOUR CHOSEN NICHE
Selecting a niche is just the beginning.
The travel industry is dynamic, with trends, regulations, and offerings constantly evolving. Failing to stay current with the latest developments in your chosen specialty can quickly render your expertise outdated. Continuous learning, attending industry events, and maintaining strong relationships with suppliers are crucial to remaining competitive and providing the best service to your clients.
7. OVERLOOKING THE IMPORTANCE OF NETWORKING WITHIN YOUR NICHE
Many travel advisors underestimate the power of building a strong network within their chosen specialty.
Networking with other professionals, suppliers, and even clients who share your niche interest can provide valuable insights, lead to collaborative opportunities, and help establish you as an authority in your field. Neglecting to cultivate these relationships can limit your growth potential and isolate you from important industry connections that could enhance your business