The
new year is right around the corner. Are you ready to have a successful year??
It can
be easy to get comfortable and fall into the same routines, which can be great
in some cases, but in other situations, change is exactly what we need to
discontinue those bad habits and mistakes.?
Here
are 10 mistakes that you should avoid in 2024.
Operational
Don't
run from efficiency. These days, it is all about automation and working
smarter, not harder. Avoid trying to do everything and find ways to use
technology and other resources to streamline your operations. Holding on to
those outdated methods could be holding you back.
Using
more technology to increase efficiency will also mean you need more security.
Avoid the opinion that digital security isn't necessary. Ensure you have a solid VPN and other tech security
measures to protect your clients, assets, and business.?
Financial
Charging
fees have been a hot topic and will continue to do so until the entire industry
is on one accord. Avoid thinking that you are not worthy of being paid a
professional fee. Charging a fee will not only give you an additional income
stream but also uplift the perception of travel advisors as a whole and show
the industry and the world our true worth.
Reviewing
income, expenses, and taxes can be burdensome. However, you should avoid only
looking at these numbers once a year. Consider doing quarterly reviews of your
finances. This will help you prepare for taxes and billing but also help hold
you accountable for the financial goals you've set for the year.
Marketing
Social
media has become a major form of marketing for many travel advisors. It can be
easy to want to repurpose and reuse old content, which can work for some
situations. However, in general, you should avoid using the same old content.
Your followers are looking for new, engaging, and authentic content! Avoid the
typical sales pitches, and ensure your content has your voice, as this will
resonate with your audience.
While
social media is a great free tool, you should avoid using only social media?marketing.
Consider other forms of marketing to use so that your reach is diversified. Get
creative and think about different ways to reach new and existing clients. If
you do not already have one, creating a marketing plan can be a great place to
start for discovering new marketing strategies.
Client Relationship
Work
can become very busy, but avoid forgetting about your clients! Make sure that
you have a CRM system that allows you to reach out to your
clients quickly and regularly. Consider sending out emails periodically and
definitely avoid missing milestone celebrations for your clients, as these are
great opportunities to book new vacations.?
Once
the client has returned from vacation, it can be easy to close the file and
move on to the next client. Avoid moving on too quickly by following up with
the client to see how their vacation was. This is also a great opportunity to
ask clients for feedback and reviews!?
Personal Development
Regardless
of how long you've been in the industry, there is always more to learn. Avoid
thinking that you have all the knowledge you need. Create a list of training
and professional development goals you wish to accomplish for the year.
Remember to also include networking opportunities, as they can also aid in
helping you to grow as a professional.
Remember
that rest is as important as work. Avoid putting yourself on the back burner,
and remember to create and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Set dates
throughout the year for yourself and practice self-care regularly. Allocate an
amount of funds for things that bring you joy. Organize a regimen to keep your
body healthy to avoid burnout.
Travel
advisors have access to a myriad of discounts, benefits, and perks. However, we
should not let this go to our heads. Avoid the spirit of entitlement and
refrain from being rude to our industry partners. We must remember that our
actions represent our brand, company, clients, host agencies and much more.
Maintain a spirit of gratitude, and watch how your connections will bloom!
As
we approach 2024, now is the time to set yourself up for a successful year. By
avoiding the mistakes mentioned above, you'll be able to give your business,
clients, and yourself the love and attention necessary for growth, development,
and prosperity. The new year is right around the corner, so get ready to shine!
Happy Holidays and best wishes for a prosperous 2024!
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