Frequently asked questions from new homeworkers
Whether you’re new to travel or moving into homeworking, you’re bound to have plenty of questions. Rhodri Andrews gets the answers
There’s a lot that goes into becoming a successful homeworker. That’s why, when you’re thinking of making the switch, you will probably have a few questions. We tackle some of them here, chatting to experienced leaders at a handful of homeworking agencies for their insight and advice, so you can make a more informed decision about whether it’s right for you.
Q. Do I need travel experience to be a homeworker?
A. The answer to this is both yes and no. Some homeworking firms, such as Vertical Travel Group and The Personal Travel Agents, will require you to have prior experience in the travel industry but others, like One Travel Club and Bradley Travelstore, take people on no matter what their background is. It’s a question worth asking early on in your decision-making process to help you narrow down the options.
Q. How do I know which is the right company for me?
A. Every homeworking firm offers something a little different when it comes to commission, leads, incentives and the support available, whether it’s varying monthly fees, commission percentage, size of the business or the tech you receive when you first join. The key is to nail down what you need from an agency and then do your own research to find the closest fit, says Karen Pocock, co-director at Designer Travel. “Think carefully about what you’re looking for and write down all the ‘must-haves’ and non-negotiables. Think about your end goal and what you are trying to achieve,” she says. Luke Skinner, director at Your Endless Travel, adds that there are many questions you should be asking yourself before picking the right homeworking company. He says: “When choosing which business to join, look at the commission split and the fees, but also consider what you get for your money. A low monthly fee and a high commission split might sound great, but does the fee provide you with all the tools you need to work effectively?”
Q. Am I able to choose my own hours?
A. Yes, and this is one of the main draws of homeworking – being able to pick the hours you work and having the freedom to fit your work around your personal and family life. Sheena Whittle, head of The Personal Travel Agents, says: “This is your business, done your way. As with most things in life though, you get out what you put in so be prepared to put the hours in, especially in the early days of your business.” Being a homeworking agent offers the ultimate in flexibility, but it’s all about finding that balance between work and play to ensure you’re both successful and happy.
Q. How easy is it to get to grips with homeworking?
A As with everything, some will find it easier to adapt to homeworking life than others, especially if you have some travel experience behind you. But what anyone who is interested in becoming a homeworking travel agent should realise is the role requires serious effort and dedication, especially in the beginning. Kerry Gallagher, managing director of Silver Travel Advisor, says: “My honest advice would be not to underestimate the work needed to build your client base. Some people think selling holidays is ‘easy’ and bookings will come naturally. Hard work and commitment are essential, especially in the first year.”
Q. What kind of support will I receive?
A. Again, this should be treated on a case-by-case basis, depending on the homeworking business you go with. Each one offers different levels of support in various ways. This can include one-to-one advice, extensive training programmes, in-person events, webinars and regular community catch-ups through social media and WhatsApp groups. Janine Marshall, founder of the JLT Group, encourages newbies not to underestimate the importance of support. She says: “Working from home can be an incredible opportunity, but it can also feel isolating at times if you don’t have the right structure around you. That’s why it’s so important to join a business where you’re not just given a log-in and left to get on with it, but where you feel genuinely supported.”
Q. How much can I earn as a homeworker?
A. The answer to this often directly correlates to the work you put into your travel business. If you put the hours in and build up a good client base, the sky is the limit in terms of how much you can earn. Damian Mc Donough, business development director at Vertical Travel Group, says: “There is no limit to the amount you can earn. We have homeworkers earning anything from £20,000 to £120,000 per year.”
Image credits: Shutterstock/BongkarnGraphic; Prostock-Studio
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