Agents answer common new-to-homeworking questions

 

How easy is it to get to grips with homeworking? 

Dan Bartholomew Oates: If you have a positive attitude and a willingness to learn and adapt, then getting to grips with it can be quite easy. You need to be self-motivated and get on with things under your own steam.

 

Sinead Rochford: I found it much easier than I expected. Like anything new, there’s a steep learning curve at the beginning, but if you’re organised, motivated and passionate about travel, you quickly find your rhythm.

 

Samantha Hale: When I started, I underwent a two-week course, which was really helpful, even though I had already been in the industry for 19 years. The help and support available is second to none.

 

Andrea Hill: It’s relatively straightforward, as long as you’re disciplined and willing to put the effort in. Working from home can be distracting, so having a dedicated, quiet workspace is key. With the right setup and mindset, it quickly becomes second nature. 

 

How much travel experience do I need? 

Dan: Many companies have new-to-travel schemes that allow you to complete a training programme while building your business. If you join a travel firm that doesn’t offer this, you will require some level of travel sales experience – about two years seems to be the norm.

 

Sinead: You don’t need to have travelled the world to become successful, but having a genuine passion for travel and good people skills is really important. Personal travel experiences definitely help, though, because clients love hearing first-hand recommendations.

 

Samantha: I had 19 years’ travel experience across different roles, but you can start homeworking without any experience. Agencies will often have new-to-travel academies to help ease you into the industry.

 

Andrea: I believe a background in travel sales is incredibly beneficial. I started homeworking quite young, but I already had several years of high street experience, which made a huge difference and gave me a solid foundation to build on.

 

How do I know which is the right company for me? 

Dan: Every company has different systems and ways of doing things. Do your research on monthly fees, commission splits, card processing charges and whether it has a great support team. Pick a reputable company and take the plunge, but don’t be afraid to move on if it isn’t working for you.

 

Sinead: It’s all about support, culture and values. You want somewhere that offers strong training, accessible help and aligns with the type of business you want to build. Look at the commission structure, marketing support and whether they encourage you to build your own personal brand – that’s so important in today’s industry.

 

Samantha: For me, I wanted a well-known company. I knew a few people who were homeworkers at Hays Travel. They said they were really good, with help and support always available, which was important for me.

 

Andrea: Think about the type of environment you’ll feel most comfortable and supported in. A large, well-known company isn’t always right for everyone. I prefer the feel of a smaller team, whereas others thrive in larger organisations. It’s similar to buying a house – you’ll know when you’ve found the one that feels right.

 

 

What are the biggest challenges? 

Dan: Working out where you’re going to get your clients from. Come up with a plan to grow your business outside of friends, family and the local community. It can become quite isolating, so make sure you have a good social network.

 

Sinead: Switching off! I technically work seven days a week and when you work from home, it can be tempting to answer messages at all hours. Setting boundaries is important.

 

Samantha: Standing out from everyone else and giving customers a reason to put their trust in you. There are a lot of competitors out there trying to beat your price.

 

Andrea: Being taken seriously. I’m still occasionally asked if I’m “still doing my travel thing”, as if it’s just a hobby. Be proud of what you do. Just because you work from home doesn’t make your business any less credible or successful.

 

What is your favourite thing about being a homeworker? 

Dan: The flexibility. I can go to the gym when I want, do some shopping, play cricket on the weekends, take the kids for an ice cream and still fit in my work around that.

 

Sinead: Without a doubt, the flexibility and freedom. I wanted a career where I could be present for my children and all the important moments. When the opportunity arose at InteleTravel, I instantly knew it was for me.

 

Samantha: The flexibility, because I can do more things than in my previous 9 to 5 job, plus the friendships I’ve made and the opportunities to see more places.

 

Andrea: The flexibility and being my own boss. I could be there for my son’s sports days and school assemblies, while still running a successful business. I value that balance enormously.

 

What’s your one golden nugget of advice?

Dan: I read a quote this week: “You’re only one leap of faith away from changing your life.” Just jump in and go for it!

 

Sinead: Don’t compare your beginning to someone else’s middle. Social media can make it look like everyone succeeds overnight, but building a successful travel business takes time, consistency and confidence.

 

Samantha: Be yourself and make sure you show customers your personality and knowledge. Customers like to know they’re speaking to someone who knows what they’re talking about.

 

Andrea: Don’t try to learn everything at once. Build your confidence and expertise in something you’re genuinely interested in and expand your knowledge over time.

 

Image credit: Shutterstock/fizkes Shutterstock/Stock Photo Directors