My passion is now my work, and it’s great to be part of an exciting, ever-changing industry. I’ve always enjoyed travel, and owning a franchise through Travel Counsellors with its fantastic reputation gives me great pride every day. I worked as an Operations Manager at a Gatwick-based courier company that specialised in delivering urgent aircraft parts across the world. After 8 years I wanted a complete change of direction and I was very keen to start out in business for myself. I began to research the franchises available, and because of my interest in travel and the fact that Travel Counsellors will consider applications for the Travel Academy with no prior travel agent experience, I felt it was the perfect opportunity for me.

Graham says,

My passion is now my work, and it’s great to be part of an exciting, ever-changing industry. I’ve always had a passion for travel, and owning a franchise through Travel Counsellors with its fantastic reputation and accreditation gives me great pride every day.

My Business

Going from a well paid, salaried position to a commission-only business venture can be intimidating. The long hours and the stresses of my previous position were damaging my health and I can honestly say since starting my own franchise with Travel Counsellors I have never looked back. Not only has my work-life balance improved, it’s so satisfying to know I’m doing the best for my customers. It takes hard work and the right attitude but becoming a Travel Counsellor has made such a difference to my life.

Training

The training at head office was very comprehensive and good fun. When I joined the Travel Academy I was incredibly excited and also nervous – what if I couldn’t pick it up? There was absolutely no need for me to worry, and when I returned home my business development executive was straight on the phone to check I was ok and to reassure me that I should not hesitate to contact head office with any questions, no matter how trivial I may think they are.

Support Network

I can’t praise the support I receive from head office enough. I also benefit from the experience of my fellow Travel Counsellors around the world. If I ever have a question about an enquiry, then I can call upon my collegues and someone is always there with an answer. Everyone really helps each other.

The right IT equipment and systems are key to running a smooth business, and I haven’t been let down once. Our company has award winning IT systems, which are really easy to use and the Travel Counsellors intranet site keeps us up to date with everything from our own sales figures to the latest training courses.

International Growth

It’s reassuring to know I’m part of a successful international company. I was able to webcam a colleague in Australia to get first hand advice on the best restaurant in Sydney for a client’s anniversary dinner. You can’t get that sort of feedback and service anywhere in the world. What’s more, the buying power our size gives us means I can get great prices for my customers too.