A new online training platform aimed at supporting frontline sales staff in the travel industry is being unveiled today by Abta.
The Abta Knowledge Zone, designed by travel trade e-learning provider Equator Learning, is being launched ahead of the post-Christmas peak selling period
It aims to provide relevant, practical and digestible information for Abta member sales staff on a range of relevant topics.
The first training module on the platform today will teach sales staff about what the travel association means for them and their customers.
Once staff have completed the training they will be able to download a certificate.
Other training modules on a range of different topics will be added to the platform in coming months as part of a commitment to keeping members informed about key industry issues and support on-going learning and career development.
The short, ‘bite-size’ modules will complement Abta’s programme of seminars, workshops and conferences.
Members can access the Knowledge Zone either through Abta’s new education and careers hub or directly at abta.com/abtaknowledgezone.
The association’s brand and business development director, Victoria Bacon, said: “Travel professionals are selling holidays in an increasingly changing and sometimes uncertain or volatile environment, and customers expect their travel company to be a comprehensive source of information on all things travel-related.
“As we head into the peak selling period, the Abta Knowledge Zone will support frontline travel staff by providing them with short, simple-to-use training modules that will help them provide customers with valuable information when they’re researching and booking their holidays or business travel arrangements.
“Staff who complete the online training can then go on to develop their knowledge in specific areas further by attending the relevant Abta event, which will provide more in-depth learning and training.
Equator Learning managing director Chris May added: “This partnership is a key strategic move because it will give travel agents easy access to essential Abta training from one simple platform, and will enable Abta to support frontline travel professionals.”
The Knowledge Zone has been tested by a number of members before being launched.
Assessor and trainer at Hays Travel, Natasha Heslop, said: “I found the Abta training module straightforward to access, the module was informative and will be a great tool for our apprentices to use to gain an understanding of what Abta does.”
Thomas Cook learning and development manager online design, Tracey Froggatt, said: “Abta’s new ‘all about Abta’ module gives a great overview of what Abta is all about and what this means to customers.”